Located off Mount Lavinia near Colombo, the Taprobane North wreck is a dive into history. Resting at 20 to 30 meters, this sunken World War I era ship teems with marine life. Ideal for intermediate to advanced divers, the site is filled with schooling fish, moray eels and coral encrusted relics. A thrilling mix of history and biodiversity.

• Historic World War I era shipwreck
• Depth – 20 to 30 meters
• Intermediate to advanced divers only
• Artificial reef with rich biodiversity
• Access from Colombo or Mount Lavinia
• Year round dive site, weather permitting

Just a short boat ride from Mount Lavinia, the Taprobane North Wreck Dive is one of Sri Lanka’s most compelling underwater experiences. This World War I era steamer, scuttled decades ago, now lies between 20 to 30 meters below the surface, transformed into a thriving artificial reef that’s rich in history and marine life.

The wreck, though partially broken, retains much of its original structure, offering divers an eerie and fascinating look into a submerged past. Coral and sponge colonies now carpet the steel hull, while schools of snapper, batfish, trevally and moray eels patrol the decks and nooks. Lionfish, nudibranchs and occasional stingrays add bursts of colour and surprise.

The site is best suited to intermediate and advanced divers, due to the depth and occasional currents. Visibility ranges between 10 to 20 meters, with the best diving between November and April, although it can be accessed year round with the right conditions.

Sri Lanka Tailor-Made recommends the Taprobane North Wreck for travellers seeking an unusual, offbeat dive near the capital. It’s a hauntingly beautiful mix of history and habitat, perfect for photographers, wreck divers and those who want more than just coral and fish.