Dive at Tulamben Bali USS Liberty Ship Wreck

Imagine exploring one of Bali’s most iconic underwater sites — the USS Liberty shipwreck in Tulamben — without the hassle of planning, transportation, or equipment. Priced at $110 per person, this full-day tour packs in two dives, round-trip transfers from various Bali spots, lunch, water, and all necessary gear. It’s perfect for certified divers eager to see history and marine life up close in a setting that’s accessible for all skill levels, thanks to its shallow waters and gentle currents.

What we particularly love about this experience is how accessible and well-organized it is. The small group size ensures personalized attention from knowledgeable guides, and the included lunch and equipment make the day seamless and worry-free. Plus, the chance to see coral gardens, countless fish, and perhaps even turtles on the wreck itself makes it a real highlight. One potential consideration? The long drive from Kuta might be a bit tiring for some, but most find the journey well worth the trip.

This tour suits travelers who want a comprehensive, hassle-free underwater outing — especially those with a certified dive license. If you’re a fan of wrecks, vibrant marine life, or just want a memorable Bali adventure with excellent value, this trip is hard to beat.

Key Points

• Accessibility: Suitable for all certified divers due to shallow waters and limited current.
• All-Inclusive: Includes gear, water, lunch, and transfers — no hidden costs.
• Personalized Service: Small group tours with guides who are knowledgeable and friendly.
• Authentic Marine Encounters: Expect vibrant coral, diverse fish, and maybe turtles.
• Convenient Transfers: Pickups from Ubud, Candidasa, and South Bali areas.
• Highly Rated: Consistently praised for value, professionalism, and memorable wreck exploration.

Exploring the Wreck and the Marine Environment

The USS Liberty, a US Navy cargo ship sunk during World War II, is now one of Bali’s top diving attractions. Located in Tulamben, in the east of the island, the wreck is remarkably shallow, with most of it sitting just 5 to 30 meters below the surface. This makes it accessible for a broad range of divers, from beginners to seasoned underwater explorers.

When we arrive, we immediately appreciate the crystal-clear waters and calm conditions, which are perfect for exploring. The wreck’s metal hull is now a bustling home for coral and marine life, creating a vibrant underwater scene teeming with fish and sometimes turtles. One reviewer praised the experience, saying, “The wreck was amazing,” capturing how striking it remains, even after decades underwater.

You’ll get two dives here, each lasting roughly between 45 and 60 minutes, depending on conditions and your comfort level. The first dive typically explores the coral garden, a colorful area alive with fish and corals, which is a fantastic introduction before heading to the wreck itself. The second dive centres on the USS Liberty, where you can swim through the shadowy hull and see the intricate marine ecosystem it hosts.

Why This Spot Is Special

The wreck’s shallow depth means you don’t need heavy-duty technical gear or advanced certification, making it appealing for newer certified divers. The limited current allows for a relaxed experience, giving you more time to take in the scenery rather than battling the elements.

Marine life is abundant — as one reviewer put it, “millions of fish,” and there’s a good chance you’ll see turtles, adding a special touch to your underwater exploration. The wreck itself, now a metal skeleton covered in corals, offers both historical intrigue and visual drama, making it one of those must-see Bali sites.

The Day in Detail: What to Expect

Your day begins with hotel pickup, often from Ubud, Candidasa, or other South Bali locations. The transportation is comfortable, and the guides are seasoned and friendly, eager to share their knowledge and ensure your safety. Expect the journey to take some time — reviews mention a long drive from Kuta — but most travelers feel it’s justified by the experience awaiting them.

Once at the dive center, you’ll be greeted and fitted with your dive gear. The tour provides all essential equipment, including tanks, wetsuits, and fins. If you want to rent a GoPro or dive computer, those are available, which can enhance your underwater experience and make capturing memories easier.

Before heading into the water, you’ll participate in a briefing about the site and safety procedures. The guides are experienced, and their focus on safety is clear — a relief for first-timers or those with limited recent diving experience. The small group setting fosters a relaxed atmosphere, and the guides are happy to answer questions.

The first dive takes you around the coral garden, a colorful area bustling with clownfish, angelfish, and schools of tiny fish. The water visibility tends to be excellent, giving you a clear view of the vibrant marine life and coral formations.

After a break for snacks and water (included), you’re ready for the second dive at the wreck. Here, you’ll explore the metal structure, which is home to encrusted corals and marine creatures. Many past participants have described the wreck as “wrecked in paradise,” emphasizing its visual appeal and the sense of history it carries.

Post-dive, a hot drink and a light lunch await, providing a chance to relax and share stories with your fellow explorers. The return journey includes drop-offs at your hotel, ending a full, rewarding day.

How the Experience Comes Together

The value-for-money aspect of this tour is undeniable. For just $110, you get two guided dives, all equipment, lunch, water, and comfortable transfers. It’s a package that appeals equally to adventurous first-time divers with certification and experienced underwater enthusiasts looking to tick a legendary site off their list.

Most reviewers highlight the dedication and friendliness of the guides. Peter_H, for example, said, “The staff at the dive centre couldn’t do enough for me and made me feel very welcome.” It’s clear that the team prioritizes safety and comfort, which can make all the difference in your overall experience.

The long drive from places like Kuta is often mentioned as a drawback, but most agree it’s a small price to pay for access to such an extraordinary site. The small group sizes also mean you usually get plenty of personal attention, and the guiding staff’s local knowledge helps you see the best marine spots.

Who Would Love This Tour

This adventure is perfect for certified divers who want a reliable, well-organized day exploring Bali’s underwater history and marine life. It’s especially suited for those eager to see a world-famous wreck without complicated logistics or technical diving.

If you’re new to diving, ensure your certification is current, and consider reviewing advice about ear pressure or recent experience. For seasoned divers, the ease of access and vibrant environment make it a practical choice for a memorable dive.

Travelers who appreciate good value, professional guides, and the chance to see marine life in a stunning setting will find this tour hits the mark. And if you have a photo or video hobby, renting a GoPro will allow you to capture the spectacular wreck and colorful fish.

The Sum Up

The Tulamben USS Liberty Ship Wreck tour offers a blend of history, marine biodiversity, and hassle-free organization. It’s a great pick for divers of all levels with certification, especially those wanting to see one of Bali’s most iconic wreck sites in comfort. Guides who are friendly and knowledgeable, combined with well-chosen logistics, make this experience both enjoyable and valuable.

While the journey might be longer than some prefer, the reward of seeing this legendary wreck and exploring vibrant coral gardens makes it worthwhile. The inclusion of all gear, lunch, and transfers means you can focus entirely on enjoying the underwater spectacle.

If you’re after a well-organized, authentic diving adventure that combines marine life, history, and stunning scenery, this tour is a fantastic choice. It’s a memorable way to spend a day in Bali, especially if you love discovering new underwater worlds.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
It’s designed for certified divers. If you have current certification, you’ll find the shallow waters and limited current make for a comfortable experience.

What is included in the price?
The tour fee covers round-trip transfers, hotel pickup and drop-off, two dives, diving equipment, water, coffee or tea, and lunch.

Can I rent a camera or GoPro?
Yes, GoPro and computers are available for rent, which is perfect if you want to record your underwater adventure.

How long does the tour last?
It typically takes about one day, with the morning dedicated to transfers, dives, and lunch, ending with your return to your hotel.

What should I bring?
Bring a towel, change of clothes, and any personal items you might need. If you’re a certified diver, ensure you bring proof of certification.

Is there a maximum group size?
Yes, the tour limits groups to a maximum of 15 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience.

How deep are the dives?
The wreck is in shallow waters, usually between 5 and 30 meters, making it accessible to a broad range of divers.

What marine life can I expect?
You might see fish, corals, and possibly turtles. The site boasts millions of fish and vibrant coral formations.

Do I need insurance?
Insurance is optional but recommended; DAN or Dive-master insurance is available for purchase through the tour operator.

What if I can’t dive on the day?
The tour is specifically for diving, so if you’re not certified or don’t wish to dive, consider alternative Bali activities. Cancellations are free if made 24 hours in advance.

This comprehensive review should help you decide whether the Tulamben USS Liberty experience fits your Bali itinerary. It promises an exciting, rewarding day exploring one of the island’s most treasured underwater sites with expert guides and all logistics covered. Whether you’re a seasoned diver or seeking a memorable introduction to Bali’s underwater life, this tour offers great value and genuine adventure.