TATEBE MARU (PROBABLY) - Nha Trang

The Tatebe Maru (probably) is a fascinating piece of history, shallow enough for almost anyone to explore. This Dutch steamship, seized by the Japanese and bombed in 1945, lies in just 8m of water. You’ll fin over the vast deck, spotting remnants of its triple expansion engines and imagining its past. Though she's a "dangerous wreck" on paper, divers will find a calm, accessible site colonised by a surprising variety of reef fish and invertebrates, making it a good second dive or a relaxed afternoon outing.

Location
Nha Trang, Vietnam, Southeast Asia
Coordinates
14.034250, 109.249970
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
8m

Marine Protected Area: Quy Nhon

Best Time to Dive in Nha Trang

The warmest water temperatures in Nha Trang occur in May, averaging 30.5°C. The coolest conditions are in January at 25.4°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 25.4°C
  • February: 25.8°C
  • March: 27.4°C
  • April: 29.5°C
  • May: 30.5°C
  • June: 30.2°C
  • July: 29.7°C
  • August: 29.7°C
  • September: 30.3°C
  • October: 30.1°C
  • November: 28.1°C
  • December: 26.2°C

Nearby Dive Sites in Nha Trang

Nearest Dive Centres to TATEBE MARU (PROBABLY)

Marine Life in Nha Trang

Home to 182 recorded species including 175 reef fish, 6 seagrass & algae, 1 other.

Notable Species

Recommended Packing List for TATEBE MARU (PROBABLY)

Based on average water temperature of 28.6°C, currents 3 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 the Tatebe Maru wreck, including the deck and the seabed?
The Tatebe Maru wreck is found at a depth of 8m. This makes it a relatively shallow dive, suitable for exploring the exterior of this historic vessel. For more details on this site, visit the Tatebe Maru dive site page.
What kind of marine life and historical artifacts can divers expect to see on the Tatebe Maru?
Divers exploring the Tatebe Maru can expect to encounter significant historical artifacts, including its impressive triple expansion engines. This 117m x 14.9m steam ship, built in 1911 and sunk in 1945, offers a glimpse into maritime history. While specific marine life is not detailed, wrecks typically become artificial reefs, attracting various species. You can learn more about marine life often found on wrecks.
How challenging is the Tatebe Maru dive site, and is it suitable for beginner wreck divers or only experienced ones?
The Tatebe Maru is classified as an intermediate difficulty dive site and is considered a Dangerous wreck. Due to its classification, it is not typically recommended for beginner wreck divers. Divers should possess appropriate experience and training to safely explore this historical site in Nha Trang.
What are the best months or seasons to dive the Tatebe Maru for optimal conditions and visibility?
Information regarding the best months or seasons for optimal diving conditions and visibility at the Tatebe Maru is not available in the current data. For general guidance on when to dive in Vietnam, please consult our When to Dive section.
What diving certifications are typically required to dive the Tatebe Maru, especially for wreck penetration?
While specific certification requirements for the Tatebe Maru are not detailed, its classification as an intermediate and Dangerous wreck suggests that divers should hold at least an Advanced Open Water certification. For any wreck penetration, specialized training such as a Wreck Diver certification is typically required to ensure safety and proper techniques. Always consult with local dive operators in Nha Trang regarding their specific requirements.
What are the usual current conditions and water visibility like at the Tatebe Maru dive site?
Details regarding the usual current conditions and water visibility at the Tatebe Maru dive site are not provided in the available data. Divers planning to visit this historic wreck should inquire with local dive centers in Nha Trang for the most current conditions.