KUMA - Koh Lanta & Phi Phi

Diving the Kuma is a trip into history. This light cruiser, sunk in 1944, lies deep at 46 meters, a silent testament to its past. At 163 meters long, it’s a substantial wreck, and we often find ourselves exploring the bow section where the large anchor chains still lie. The sheer size gives it a dramatic feel, with massive turbine engines visible through some of the larger breaches. The wreck has become home to plenty of fish, with schools of fusiliers often swirling around the superstructure and the occasional barracuda patrolling the deeper sections. It’s definitely one for experienced divers comfortable with depth and maybe a bit of current, as conditions can vary.

Location
Koh Lanta & Phi Phi, Thailand, Southeast Asia
Coordinates
5.466333, 99.915500
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
46m

Nearby Dive Sites in Koh Lanta & Phi Phi

Nearest Dive Centres to KUMA

Marine Life in Koh Lanta & Phi Phi

Home to 185 recorded species including 156 reef fish, 13 hard corals, 7 seagrass & algae, 3 sea snails & nudibranchs, 2 other, 1 starfish.

Notable Species

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the typical depths and maximum depths for diving at Kume Island dive sites?
The provided data specifically details the KUMA wreck, located in Koh Lanta & Phi Phi, Thailand, which has a depth of 46m. This information is for the KUMA site, a light cruiser sunk in 1944, and does not cover other potential "Kume Island" dive sites. For more details on this specific wreck, visit the KUMA dive site page.
What kind of marine life and underwater topography can divers expect to see at Kume Island?
The provided data for the KUMA wreck does not include specific information on marine life or underwater topography. Divers exploring the KUMA dive site can expect to encounter the impressive structure of a 163.1m x 14.3m light cruiser, built in 1919 and sunk in 1944. Its features include 7 x 5.5 inch guns, 8 torpedo tubes, and an aircraft.
What is the difficulty level for diving at Kume Island, and are there suitable sites for beginner divers?
Diving at the KUMA wreck is classified as an intermediate difficulty dive. With a depth of 46m, this site is generally not suitable for beginner divers. For more information on this challenging wreck dive, please visit the KUMA dive site page.
When is the best time of year to dive Kume Island for specific marine life encounters like manta rays or whale sharks?
The provided data for the KUMA wreck does not specify the best time of year for diving or information on specific marine life encounters such as manta rays or whale sharks. For general information on optimal diving seasons in Koh Lanta & Phi Phi, we recommend checking our When to Dive section.
What scuba diving certifications are required to dive at the various sites around Kume Island?
The provided data for the KUMA wreck does not explicitly state specific certification requirements. However, considering its intermediate difficulty and depth of 46m, divers should possess appropriate training and experience for such conditions. We recommend consulting with local dive operators in Koh Lanta & Phi Phi for the precise certifications needed to dive the KUMA dive site.
What are the typical current conditions and visibility like at Kume Island dive sites?
The provided data for the KUMA wreck does not include information on typical current conditions or visibility. To get the most up-to-date details on these environmental factors for the KUMA dive site, it is best to consult with local dive centers in Koh Lanta & Phi Phi.