ANN TONG

Best months: Jan–Dec

Protected Area

Pulau Sibu Marine Park

Why dive here

With 107+ marine species recorded in the area - including blacktip reef sharks, sea turtles, whale sharks and pufferfish - ANN TONG offers some of Tioman Island's richest wreck diving. Water ranges 28-31°C, warmest April, May, October.

Marine lifeBlacktip Reef Sharks, Sea Turtles, Whale Sharks and Pufferfish · 107+ species recorded

Water28-31°C · warmest April, May, October

CharacterWreck dive · max 4m

StandoutRich in charismatic marine life

Ann Tong isn't your typical Tioman wreck site. This isn't a deep, dramatic plummet, but a shallower, more intimate encounter with history. The wreck sits at a mere 4 metres, broken into pieces, a testament to those heavy seas back in '76 that tore her apart. What we love about Ann Tong is how accessible it is, even for newer divers or those who prefer longer bottom times. You'll spend your dive weaving through the scattered hull sections, which are now completely encrusted with corals. Look closely for pipefish camouflaged amongst the growth, or a grumpy stonefish hiding in plain sight. We've seen schools of juvenile yellowtail snapper shimmering over the larger pieces of metal, almost like a living blanket. It’s an interesting contrast to the natural reefs, a reminder of nature reclaiming what was once man-made. Our favourite spot is usually around the engine room section, where the structure offers great shelter for smaller critters. It’s an easy, relaxed dive, perfect for a second dip or just taking your time with a camera.

Typical ANN TONG Dive Profile

Illustrative profile based on site depth and type. Actual dive profiles vary - always follow your dive computer and training.

Safety Notes

Wreck site - avoid penetration without wreck diving certification. Watch for sharp metal and entanglement hazards.

Today06:0218:1312h 10m daylightGolden hour 17:45

ANN TONG Wreck History

Year Sunk

1976

Vessel Type

cargo ship

Cause

storm

The Ann Tong was a local motor vessel operating in the warm waters of the South China Sea. Her final voyage occurred on January 8, 1976, during the monsoon season, which is known for bringing unpredictable and powerful weather to the region around Tioman Island, Malaysia.

Caught in heavy seas, the Ann Tong's engine room began to take on water and was eventually swamped, leaving the vessel powerless. Adrift and at the mercy of the storm, she was pushed onto a sandbar. A salvage operation was quickly mounted, but the persistent strong winds and battering waves proved too much. The vessel's hull gave way, and the Ann Tong broke apart and sank in the shallows.

Today, the wreck of the Ann Tong rests in a mere 4 meters of water, making it one of the most accessible dive and snorkel sites around Tioman. The shallow, sunlit conditions have allowed a vibrant coral reef to colonize the wreckage, transforming it into a bustling nursery for juvenile fish. Divers and snorkelers can easily explore the scattered remains, which are now almost indistinguishable from the natural reef, offering a perfect opportunity for underwater photography and a gentle introduction to the world of wreck diving.