Dive Raja Ampat’s Wrecks: Uncover History & Marine Life

During World War II, Raja Ampat's strategic location made it a site of significant naval activity. As a result, several ships and aircraft met their fate in these waters, creating an underwater museum of wartime relics. 

Each wreck carries its unique story—of battles fought, voyages ended, and legacies left behind. For history enthusiasts and divers alike, these sites offer a poignant connection to the past.

One of the most renowned wrecks in Raja Ampat is the P-47 Thunderbolt, a World War II fighter plane resting at about 27 meters (90 feet). Discovered near Wai Island, this well-preserved aircraft invites divers to explore its fuselage, now adorned with corals and swarmed by schools of fish. 

The transformation of this fighter plane into a thriving marine habitat exemplifies the resilience of nature and its ability to reclaim even the most unlikely spaces.

Max Ammer, the founder of Papua Diving Resorts, is widely recognized as a pioneer of wreck diving in Raja Ampat, Indonesia. His initial exploration of Raja Ampat was driven by a desire to uncover hidden wrecks, particularly those from World War II, which he believed were scattered across the area’s waters.

In addition to his underwater discoveries, Max once built and piloted his own helicopter to scout potential dive sites from the air. This innovative approach allowed him to locate wrecks and reefs with a bird’s-eye view, enhancing his ability to piece together Raja Ampat’s submerged history.

Today, his fascination with historical wrecks remains a central part of his work. He continues to search for these underwater relics, often venturing out with his team to investigate promising locations. 

With a focus on discovery and preservation, Max’s ongoing efforts highlight the unique blend of history and marine life.

Raja Ampat's wrecks are not just historical artifacts; they are vibrant ecosystems that host an astonishing diversity of marine life. The nutrient-rich waters of the Coral Triangle make these wrecks prime real estate for coral growth and marine biodiversity. Hard and soft corals blanket the structures, creating a kaleidoscope of colors that contrasts with the muted remnants of metal.

The wrecks in Raja Ampat are relatively shallow by wreck diving standards, typically resting at depths around 30 meters. 

Divers, who must hold an Advanced Open Water (AOW) certification to explore these sites safely, can expect encounters with an array of species, from macro treasures like pygmy seahorses and nudibranchs to larger pelagics such as barracudas and reef sharks. 

Schools of fusiliers, angelfish, and butterflyfish weave through the wreckage, while moray eels and lionfish claim nooks and crannies as their own. The symbiotic relationship between history and marine life makes every dive a dynamic and ever-changing experience.

While the P-47 Thunderbolt is a must-visit, Raja Ampat is home to several other remarkable wreck diving sites:

1. Plane Wrecks of Wai Island: Beyond the P-47, additional aircraft wrecks dot the seabed near Wai Island, each with its own story and unique marine inhabitants.
2. The Cross Wreck: Named for its proximity to a Christian cross onshore, this Japanese patrol boat lies at 18 meters (60 feet) near Pulau Kri. It’s an excellent site for beginners and offers a fascinating glimpse into history alongside vibrant marine life.
3. Shinwa Maru: A Japanese cargo ship that rests in deeper waters, the Shinwa Maru is ideal for advanced divers. The ship's skeletal structure serves as a habitat for countless species, making it a hotspot for underwater photographers.

Since The Cross Wreck and Shinwa Maru are quite far from our location, we don’t typically take guests to these sites. Our dive trips focus on sites closer to the resort to ensure the best experience.

Read more: Raja Ampat Best Dive Sites

Exploring these wrecks is a privilege that comes with a responsibility to preserve their integrity. Papua Diving Resorts emphasizes sustainable diving practices to ensure these sites remain pristine for future generations. 

Divers are encouraged to maintain buoyancy control, avoid touching or disturbing the wrecks, and follow established guidelines to minimize environmental impact.

Additionally, by choosing eco-conscious operators like Papua Diving Resorts, guests directly contribute to marine conservation efforts. Both Sorido Bay Resort and Kri Eco Resort collaborate with local communities and the Raja Ampat Research and Conservation Centre (RARCC) to protect Raja Ampat's fragile ecosystems, ensuring that its underwater treasures—both natural and historical—are safeguarded.

Wreck diving in Raja Ampat offers more than just a glimpse into the past; it’s an immersion into a world where history, marine life, and conservation converge. 

The region’s unparalleled biodiversity sets it apart from other wreck diving destinations, providing an experience that is as educational as it is awe-inspiring. 

Exploring these underwater relics will leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for the ocean’s wonders.

Read more: How to Get to Raja Ampat

For those interested in capturing the beauty of these underwater adventures, the upcoming 2025 SEACAM Workshops at Sorido Bay Resort present an ideal opportunity.

Scheduled for July 20-26 and August 10-16, these workshops are led by award-winning SEACAM ambassadors and are free of charge for 2025 only.

Whether you're a seasoned underwater photographer or just starting, the SEACAM Workshops provide invaluable insights and hands-on training to enhance your photography skills while you explore Raja Ampat's remarkable wrecks.

Interested in enhancing your underwater photography skills? Click here to reserve your spot, or email us at info@papua-diving.com for details!