MAHA THEVI - Tioman Island

Maha Thevi isn't just any old wreck; she’s a proper piece of history right off Tioman. This steamship, built in '44, ran aground in '67 and now sits in an unusual spot, barely five metres deep. We love how accessible she is, making it a perfect second dive or even a snorkel if the conditions are calm. Her sheer size is impressive, even in such shallow water – 91 metres long, you can trace a lot of her structure. What makes Maha Thevi special is the way the light filters through the shallows, illuminating her massive hull and the rock formations she came to rest on. It’s a very different vibe from some of Tioman’s deeper wrecks. You'll often find a decent school of barracuda hanging out, and the nooks and crannies of the superstructure are home to pipefish and the occasional moray eel peeking out. Visibility can be a bit variable here, so we’d suggest going on a rising tide for the best chance of clear water. It’s a site that really makes you feel connected to the past, a silent giant now reclaimed by the reef.

Location
Tioman Island, Malaysia, Southeast Asia
Coordinates
2.590000, 104.336670
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
5m

Marine Protected Area: Pulau Pemanggil Marine Park

Best Time to Dive in Tioman Island

The warmest water temperatures in Tioman Island occur in May, averaging 30.7°C. The coolest conditions are in January at 28.2°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 28.2°C
  • February: 28.3°C
  • March: 29.1°C
  • April: 30.6°C
  • May: 30.7°C
  • June: 29.9°C
  • July: 29.7°C
  • August: 29.5°C
  • September: 29.6°C
  • October: 30.3°C
  • November: 30.0°C
  • December: 28.7°C

Nearby Dive Sites in Tioman Island

Nearest Dive Centres to MAHA THEVI

Marine Life in Tioman Island

Home to 118 recorded species including 75 reef fish, 15 hard corals, 8 sharks & rays, 7 seagrass & algae, 5 sea cucumbers, 3 other.

Notable Species

Recommended Packing List for MAHA THEVI

Based on average water temperature of 29.6°C, currents 20 cm/s.

  • Shorty or Rashguard - warm 30°C water needs minimal exposure protection
  • Mask - essential for every dive
  • Fins
  • BCD - buoyancy compensator
  • Regulator - your most safety-critical piece of gear
  • Dive Computer - tracks depth, time, and NDL
  • Surface Marker Buoy (SMB) - essential for boat pickups
  • Dive Torch - useful for crevices and colour at depth
  • Underwater Camera - capture your diving memories

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the typical diving depth at the MAHA THEVI dive site?
The typical diving depth at the MAHA THEVI dive site is 5 meters. This shallow depth makes it accessible for many divers, offering ample bottom time to explore the wreck.
What kind of marine life and underwater features can divers expect to see at MAHA THEVI?
At MAHA THEVI, divers can expect to explore the impressive underwater features of a steam ship vessel, measuring 91.1m x 12.8m. This historical wreck, sunk in 1967, serves as the main attraction. While specific marine life details are not provided, wrecks often become artificial reefs, attracting various species over time, which you can learn more about in our wildlife database.
How difficult is diving at MAHA THEVI, and is it suitable for beginner divers?
Diving at MAHA THEVI is classified as intermediate difficulty. Due to its classification as a "Dangerous wreck" and the inherent challenges of wreck diving, it is generally not recommended for absolute beginner divers. Divers should possess adequate experience and training for this type of dive.
What is the best time of year to dive at MAHA THEVI for optimal conditions and marine encounters?
The provided data for MAHA THEVI does not specify the best time of year for optimal conditions or marine encounters. For general information on diving seasons in the area, we recommend checking our when to dive guide for Tioman Island.
Are there any specific diving certifications required or recommended for diving at MAHA THEVI?
While the data for MAHA THEVI does not explicitly list required certifications, its intermediate difficulty and classification as a "Dangerous wreck" strongly suggest that divers should have advanced open water certification or specialized wreck diving training. Proper equipment and experience are crucial for safely exploring this site.
What are the typical currents and water conditions like at the MAHA THEVI dive site?
The provided data for the MAHA THEVI dive site does not include specific details regarding typical currents or water conditions such as temperature or visibility. Divers should consult local dive operators for the most current conditions before planning their dive.