Why the Legend Lives On

We have been diving these waters for years, and the USAT Liberty Wreck diving experience never gets old. Unlike deep wrecks that require technical certifications, the Liberty sits on a black sand slope starting at just 5 meters deep and sloping down to about 30 meters. This makes it accessible for Open Water divers and even snorkelers.

The ship, a US Army transport vessel torpedoed in WWII, has been underwater long enough to transform into a thriving artificial reef. In 2026, the coral coverage is denser than ever, providing a home for a massive school of Big Eye Trevally and our local celebrities—the resident Bumphead Parrotfish.

Planning Your Dive Day: Tulamben vs. The Rest

Tulamben is located on the northeast coast of Bali. It is a very different vibe from the drift dives of Nusa Penida or the shark caves near Padang Bai. The water here is generally calm with little to no current, making it the perfect "relax" dive.

Because it is a shore entry, we don't need a boat. We gear up on the pebble beach (with the help of the amazing local porters) and walk right in. If you want to extend your day, the neighboring village of Amed offers stunning coral walls just 20 minutes away, making for a perfect two-location day trip.

Practical Tips for 2026

To get the most out of your USAT Liberty Wreck diving experience, here are a few insider tips from our Bali Diving instructor team:

• Bring Booties: The entry is over medium-sized volcanic stones. Open-heel fins with sturdy booties will save your feet and make the entry graceful.
• Go Early: The visibility is best between 8:00 AM and 11:00 AM. We love to arrive early to beat the mid-day crowds.
• Macro or Wide? Bring both if you can! The structure of the ship demands a wide-angle lens, but the black sand holds tiny nudibranchs and ghost pipefish for macro lovers.
• Night Diving: If your schedule allows, ask us about a night dive here. The wreck comes alive with Spanish Dancers and hunting barracuda after sunset.