Dive Site: HTMS Sattakut Wreck

About HTMS Sattakut Wreck

The HTMS Sattakut Wreck is a 48-meter long, decommissioned U.S. Navy vessel deliberately sunk in 2011 to create an artificial reef near Koh Tao in the Gulf of Thailand. This wreck provides a fascinating dive experience, standing upright on a sandy bottom at depths accessible to Advanced Open Water certified divers. Since its sinking, the wreck has rapidly been colonized by marine life, evolving into a thriving ecosystem. Divers can observe schools of glassfish, batfish, and groupers sheltering around its structure, with occasional barracuda sightings. The wreck's superstructure offers opportunities for penetration for divers with appropriate training and experience. It represents a genuinely impressive dive site, even for those accustomed to wreck diving, combining historical intrigue with abundant marine biodiversity. This site caters to divers seeking adventure and history, offering a chance to explore a significant underwater structure and witness the processes of artificial reef development. Its depth profile makes it a challenging yet rewarding dive within the Koh Tao region.

Dive site facts: HTMS Sattakut Wreck

Depth

18–30 m

Typical dive

18–30 m, 50–60 min

Current

Mild to occasional

Visibility

15–30 m (peak season)

Water temperature

27–30°C

Entry

Boat

Level

Advanced Open Water

Dive type

Wreck, Artificial Reef

Night dive

Possible

Region / port

Koh Tao, Gulf of Thailand

Coordinates

10.0789, 99.8234

Conditions & Currents

Currents at the HTMS Sattakut Wreck are generally considered mild, though they can occasionally be present. Visibility often exceeds 20 meters during the peak diving season, offering clear views of the wreck and its marine inhabitants. Entry and exit are typically boat-based, with descents made directly onto the wreck. While surge is usually not a major factor due to the depth, divers should always be prepared for varying conditions, especially during the monsoon transitions. There are no notable thermoclines affecting diver comfort. Good buoyancy control is essential to avoid disturbing the wreck and the surrounding silty bottom, preserving visibility for all divers and protecting the fragile marine life.

Marine life & sighting chances

Glassfish

common

Batfish

common

Groupers

common

Barracuda

occasional

Moray eels

occasional

Snappers

occasional

Nudibranchs

occasional

Shrimps

occasional

Crabs

occasional

Dive profile & how the dive runs

Your dive at HTMS Sattakut typically begins with a descent directly onto the wreck, which sits upright on a sandy seabed. You will generally explore the main deck and superstructure, which ranges from 18 to 24 meters in depth. Advanced divers with wreck training may opt for brief penetrations into the accessible internal sections. The bow and stern areas, along with the mast, offer excellent photographic opportunities and habitats for various fish species. A common route involves circling the wreck to observe both port and starboard sides, then ascending slowly along the mast or a reference line for a controlled safety stop. Dive times are usually kept to 50-60 minutes, considering bottom time limits at depth.

Underwater photography

The HTMS Sattakut Wreck offers fantastic opportunities for wide-angle photography, capturing the entire structure and its schools of fish. A wide-angle lens is ideal for showcasing the scale of the wreck. For macro subjects like nudibranchs and smaller critters hiding in crevices, a macro lens is beneficial. External strobes are highly recommended to bring out the vibrant colors of the marine growth and fish, especially at deeper sections. Maintain excellent buoyancy control to avoid kicking up silt, which can quickly reduce visibility and ruin shots. Be mindful of other divers and avoid disturbing marine life or wreck integrity, especially during penetrations. Patience will be rewarded with compelling images of this thriving artificial reef.

Combine with nearby dive sites

• Chumphon Pinnacle

  Iconic deep site with whale shark potential and strong currents

• Sail Rock

  Famous for its 'Chimney' swim-through and pelagic encounters

• Koh Tao — Japanese Garden

  Shallow coral garden perfect for beginners and snorkelers

• Koh Tao — Twins

  Sheltered pinnacles with varied topography, suitable for all levels

• Koh Tao — Green Rock

  Known for caves, swim-throughs, and triggerfish

Getting there & logistics

Access to HTMS Sattakut is primarily from Koh Tao, a small island in the Gulf of Thailand. The closest international airport is generally Koh Samui (USM), from which you can take a ferry to Koh Tao. Alternatively, you can fly into Surat Thani (URT) or Chumphon (CJM) on the mainland and connect via ferry. Dive trips are typically day trips from Koh Tao, often combining two dives with surface intervals. No specific permits beyond standard dive tour fees are usually required for this site. Liveaboards operating in the Gulf of Thailand may also include the Sattakut in their itineraries, often alongside other popular sites like Chumphon Pinnacle and Sail Rock.

Safety & environment

Safety at the HTMS Sattakut Wreck is paramount due to its depth and the nature of wreck diving. Divers should be Advanced Open Water certified and ideally have wreck diving specialty training, especially if planning any penetrations. The nearest recompression chamber is located in Koh Samui, necessitating a boat transfer in case of an emergency, which can take several hours. Therefore, comprehensive dive insurance is highly recommended. Always dive with a reputable dive operator and follow your guide's instructions. Maintain strict buoyancy control to avoid entanglement in the wreck or kicking up silt. Never exceed your training limits or carry out unapproved penetrations.

Who it suits — and who it doesn't

FAQ

HTMS Sattakut Wreck FAQ

Liveaboards diving HTMS Sattakut Wreck

These liveaboards may visit HTMS Sattakut Wreck on selected itineraries — the exact dive sites depend on departure, weather and conditions.

Mandarin Queen 9

Thailand

26 guests37.5 m

Manta Queen 8

Thailand

24 guests

$127/day

The Junk

Thailand

18 guests33 m

$163/day

Deep Andaman Queen

Thailand

23 guests30.5 m

$194/day

Explorer

Thailand

16 guests25 m

$150/day

Andaman

Thailand

20 guests26 m

$108/day

Stingray

Thailand

8 guests24 m

$245/day

Seatopia

Thailand

24 guests24 m