Tulamben (USAT Liberty Wreck),Bali

USAT Liberty (Tulamben) is a World War II cargo ship torpedoed and beached in 1942 and later moved into the sea after the 1963 Mount Agung eruption. It is one of the most accessible and famous wreck dives in the world, serving as both a living historical monument and a thriving artificial reef supporting rich marine biodiversity. The site is important for marine conservation, dive tourism, and local livelihoods.

USAT Liberty Wreck
B O U Q U E T [Explored]
C A R G O - R O O M [Explored]
B E N J A M I N
Wreck

Places to visit

  • USAT Liberty Wreck (accessible from the shore; bow in shallow water, stern down to ~30 m)
  • Colorful coral growth and abundant reef fish communities
  • Macro life hotspots (nudibranchs, pygmy seahorses and ghost pipefish in nearby sites)
  • Nearby coastal villages and black-sand beaches (Amed and Bunutan)

Unique Aspects

  • True shore-entry wreck dive — no boat needed
  • Large sections of the wreck are intact and safe for guided penetration
  • Excellent underwater photography opportunities (both wide-angle and macro)
  • Year-round dive site with varied depths suitable for beginners through advanced divers
  • Night dives reveal different species and behaviors

Things to do

  • Scuba diving (beginner to advanced; many dive schools offer guided dives and courses)
  • Snorkelling the shallow sections of the wreck and nearby reefs
  • Freediving and underwater photography
  • Shore walks, black-sand beach visits and village exploration
  • Joining conservation events and reef clean-ups organized by local dive centers

Best Time to Visit

April to October (dry season) for calmer seas and generally better visibility; however, Tulamben is a year‑round dive destination and many divers visit in the wet season (November–March) as well.

Weather Conditions

Tropical climate with a dry season (April–October) and a wet season (November–March). Air temperatures typically range from 25–32°C; water temperatures commonly 26–29°C. Expect more rain and occasional reduced visibility during the wet season.

Entry Fees & Permits

The wreck itself is accessible at any time from the shore (no formal site gate), but dive operations run daily from early morning to late afternoon and offer night dives by arrangement. Dive shops charge per dive, packages, equipment rental and guide fees; a small local management or parking fee may be collected by the village or dive operator.

Accessibility

Nearest major airport: Ngurah Rai International Airport (Denpasar) — about 2.5–3.5 hours by car depending on traffic. Tulamben is near the coastal towns of Amed (15–30 minutes) and Kubu. Accessible by private transfer, taxi, or organized tour; limited public transport (bemos) available. Road overviews: well-paved highways to eastern Bali with narrower roads near villages.

Recommended Duration

Stay 1–3 days if you only plan to dive the Liberty; 3–7 days recommended to combine multiple dives, courses, and exploration of nearby Amed and Mount Agung viewpoints.

Clothing & Gear Tips

Light tropical clothing for shore and village visits; reef‑safe sunscreen; a 3 mm shorty or 3–5 mm full suit depending on personal cold tolerance; dive boots/fin socks for black sand shore entry; a torch for night dives and wreck penetration; basic dive kit if you prefer your own gear (mask, snorkel, computer).

Local Food & Souvenirs

Enjoy fresh seafood and traditional Balinese warung dishes in Amed and Tulamben. Try ikan bakar (grilled fish) and Balinese coffee. Souvenirs include sarongs, hand‑woven ikat, local silver jewelry and small carved wood items. Support local dive centers by booking services and conservation contributions.

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