EASTERN PROGRESS - Koh Tao

The Eastern Progress. Now, this is a wreck we actually love. Not just because it’s deep, which it is, hitting 60 metres, but because it feels like a proper piece of history down there. She was a carrier vessel, built in Germany in the 50s, and went down in '80 on her way to Singapore. You can really sense that industrial past as you descend onto her. We usually try to hit this one early, before the thermocline settles in too hard, if we can help it. Dropping onto the bow is our favourite approach. You’ll see the enormous anchor chain still snaking away, then the bridge structure looms into view. The scale of her is impressive, almost 100 metres long, and you can swim through various compartments, though penetration requires proper training and gas. Look out for the resident barracuda, often hanging motionless near the mast, and we’ve seen some hefty groupers tucked into the holds. The swim-throughs are dark, but the ambient light filtering through occasional openings creates these beautiful, silhouetted scenes. It’s a site for experienced divers, definitely, those comfortable with depth and a bit of current, but for wreck lovers, it’s a real treat.

Location
Koh Tao, Thailand, Southeast Asia
Coordinates
11.168667, 101.330170
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
60m

Best Time to Dive in Koh Tao

The warmest water temperatures in Koh Tao occur in May, averaging 30.6°C. The coolest conditions are in January at 28.3°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 28.3°C
  • February: 28.6°C
  • March: 29.3°C
  • April: 30.2°C
  • May: 30.6°C
  • June: 30.2°C
  • July: 30.0°C
  • August: 29.7°C
  • September: 29.4°C
  • October: 29.2°C
  • November: 29.3°C
  • December: 28.6°C

Nearby Dive Sites in Koh Tao

Nearest Dive Centres to EASTERN PROGRESS

Marine Life in Koh Tao

Home to 56 recorded species including 35 reef fish, 11 sharks & rays, 4 other, 2 hard corals, 1 clams & mussels, 1 sea urchins.

Notable Species

Recommended Packing List for EASTERN PROGRESS

Based on average water temperature of 29.5°C, currents 14 cm/s.

  • Shorty or Rashguard - warm 29°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 depth range for diving at the Eastern Progress dive site?
The Eastern Progress dive site is located at a depth of 60 meters. This makes it a deep dive, primarily suitable for divers with appropriate training and experience in advanced diving techniques. The wreck itself provides the main point of interest at this significant depth.
What kind of marine life and underwater features can divers expect to see at Eastern Progress?
Divers at the Eastern Progress can expect to explore a substantial carrier vessel wreck, measuring 98.8m x 14.3m. Sunk on November 14, 1980, this non-dangerous wreck provides an intriguing underwater feature. While specific marine life details are not provided, wrecks commonly become artificial reefs, attracting various species over time, which you can learn more about in our wildlife database.
How challenging is the Eastern Progress dive site considered for different skill levels?
The Eastern Progress dive site is classified as an intermediate difficulty dive. This indicates that divers should possess a good level of experience and comfort with deeper diving conditions. It is not recommended for novice divers due to its depth and the nature of wreck diving.
What is the best time of year or season to dive at Eastern Progress for optimal conditions?
Information regarding the best time of year or season for optimal diving conditions at the Eastern Progress is not provided in the current data. For general guidance on seasonal diving in the region, you might consult our When to Dive section for broader insights into conditions in Koh Tao.
Are there any specific diving certifications or experience levels required to dive at Eastern Progress?
Given its depth of 60 meters and classification as an intermediate dive, specific advanced certifications are likely required for the Eastern Progress. Divers should possess certifications such as Deep Diver or Technical Diver, along with significant experience in similar conditions, to safely explore this site.
What are the usual currents and water conditions like at the Eastern Progress dive site?
Details regarding the usual currents and specific water conditions at the Eastern Progress dive site are not available in the provided data. Divers planning to visit this site should always check local conditions with dive operators in Koh Tao prior to diving to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.