TOSA MARU (STERN SECTION) - Southern Islands

Okay, the Tosa Maru’s stern section. This isn't just another chunk of metal, it’s a proper deep wreck dive, and frankly, one of Singapore’s best if you know what you’re doing. Dropping onto the stern at 40 metres, you immediately feel the scale of this tanker. We love exploring the huge propeller, often shrouded in schooling fusiliers, their silver bodies flashing as they dart through the gloom. Visibility can be a real mixed bag out here, but on a good day, the structure itself is impressive. We've spent dives just slowly tracing the deck lines, peering into collapsed hold sections. Look closely for the resident bamboo sharks tucked under ledges, and we often spot substantial groupers lurking in the shadows. This is a dive for experienced wreck enthusiasts; the depth and potential currents mean you need to be comfortable in low visibility and have solid buoyancy control. Get it right, and it’s a truly rewarding dive.

Location
Southern Islands, Singapore, Southeast Asia
Coordinates
1.186852, 103.833940
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
40m

Marine Protected Area: Labrador Nature Reserve

Best Time to Dive in Southern Islands

The warmest water temperatures in Southern Islands occur in January, averaging 28.2°C. The coolest conditions are in December at 28.2°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 28.2°C (air: 26.0°C)
  • February: 28.2°C (air: 26.6°C)
  • March: 28.2°C (air: 27.1°C)
  • April: 28.2°C (air: 27.4°C)
  • May: 28.2°C (air: 27.9°C)
  • June: 28.2°C (air: 27.4°C)
  • July: 28.2°C (air: 27.5°C)
  • August: 28.2°C (air: 27.2°C)
  • September: 28.2°C (air: 27.2°C)
  • October: 28.2°C (air: 27.2°C)
  • November: 28.2°C (air: 26.5°C)
  • December: 28.2°C (air: 26.3°C)

Nearby Dive Sites in Southern Islands

Nearest Dive Centres to TOSA MARU (STERN SECTION)

Marine Life in Southern Islands

Home to 284 recorded species including 179 reef fish, 46 hard corals, 17 seagrass & algae, 13 sharks & rays, 8 sea snails & nudibranchs, 6 other.

Notable Species

Recommended Packing List for TOSA MARU (STERN SECTION)

Based on average water temperature of 28.2°C.

  • Shorty or Rashguard - warm 28°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 maximum depth divers can reach at the Tosa Maru (Stern Section) dive site?
The maximum depth at the Tosa Maru (Stern Section) dive site is 40 meters. This deep wreck dive requires appropriate training and experience for safe exploration.
What specific artifacts and marine life are typically found around the stern section of the Toa Maru wreck?
Based on the provided data, specific details about artifacts or marine life typically found around the stern section of the Tosa Maru wreck are not available. The site is known as a tanker vessel, sunk in 1975, offering a large wreck structure to explore. Divers interested in general marine life in the region can explore our wildlife database.
How difficult is the Tosa Maru (Stern Section) dive, and is it suitable for advanced recreational divers?
The Tosa Maru (Stern Section) dive is classified as intermediate difficulty. With a maximum depth of 40 meters, it is suitable for advanced recreational divers who have appropriate deep diving certifications and experience with wreck diving.
What is considered the best time of year to dive the Toa Maru wreck for optimal visibility and conditions?
The provided data does not specify the best time of year to dive the Tosa Maru wreck for optimal visibility and conditions. For general information on seasonal diving conditions in the region, please consult our When to Dive section.
What scuba diving certifications are recommended or required to safely dive the Tosa Maru (Stern Section)?
Given the Tosa Maru (Stern Section) is an intermediate wreck dive reaching 40 meters, an Advanced Open Water certification is generally recommended. Additionally, a Deep Diver specialty certification and Wreck Diver specialty certification would be highly beneficial for safe and enjoyable exploration of this site.
Are there any notable currents or specific water conditions that divers should be aware of at the Toa Maru (Stern Section)?
The provided data does not include specific information regarding notable currents or particular water conditions at the Tosa Maru (Stern Section) dive site. Divers should always consult with local dive operators for the most current conditions before planning their dive.