

Best for beginner divers, 12-15m, boat entry, mild current.
The Earl of Shaftesbury is a historic steel four-mast sailing ship dating from the 1820s that sank following an onboard fire. Resting on a sandy bottom at depths between 12 and 15 metres, the wreck offers an average depth of 14 metres. Access to this site is by boat, with dives typically lasting around 35 minutes. Conditions are generally mild, though visibility can fluctuate significantly between 5 and 30 metres. Divers should be aware of potential entanglement hazards while exploring the structure. The site is suitable for beginners and is well-supported by local facilities including equipment rental, air fills, and guided tours.
6.17942, 80.06561
Time your dive for early morning when giant trevally hunting activity peaks around the wreck structure.
Boat access is required to reach the site.
Recorded at this site
Depth
12-15m
Visibility
5-30m
Skill Level
Beginner
Entry
Boat
Boat required
Water Temp
28-30°C
Current
Mild
Typical Dive
35 min
Best Time
Apr, Nov
Yes, the site is rated as suitable for beginner divers.
The wreck lies at depths between 12 and 15 metres, with an average depth of 14 metres.
Access to this site is by boat, which is required to reach the wreck.
The best months to visit this site are April and November.
Divers should be aware of the risk of entanglement when exploring the wreck structure.
Diving at Earl of Shaftesbury in Hikkaduwa requires the following certifications: Open Water. Always dive within your training limits.
Yes, equipment rental is available at or near Earl of Shaftesbury in Hikkaduwa. Contact local dive operators for specific gear availability and prices.
A rashguard or 2mm shorty is recommended for diving at Earl of Shaftesbury in Hikkaduwa. Water temperatures range from 28°C to 30°C.
The best months to visit Earl of Shaftesbury in Hikkaduwa are April and November. Conditions outside these months can still be good but are less predictable.
Earl of Shaftesbury in Hikkaduwa typically has mild currents that most divers can handle comfortably.
Visibility at Earl of Shaftesbury in Hikkaduwa typically ranges from 5 metres to 30 metres. Conditions vary with weather, tides, and seasons.