How Deep Is the USAT Liberty Wreck?

How Deep Is The USAT Liberty Wreck? The USAT Liberty Wreck is one of the most famous dive sites in Indonesia and a highlight of diving in Bali. Located just offshore in Tulamben on Bali’s northeast coast, this World War II cargo ship has become a thriving artificial reef and a must-visit destination for divers of all levels. One of the most common questions people ask before planning a dive here is simple: how deep is the Tulamben?

In short, the wreck lies at depths ranging from about 5 meters to around 30 meters, making it accessible to both beginners and experienced divers.

Depth Range of the USAT Liberty Wreck

The wreck sits on a sandy slope just meters from the shoreline. Over time, volcanic activity and natural forces shifted the ship from its original resting place on the beach into the sea, where it now lies parallel to the shore.

Here is a general breakdown of the depth profile:

Shallowest point: Approximately 5 meters (16 feet)
Main body of the wreck: Around 10 to 20 meters (33 to 66 feet)
Deepest sections: Around 28 to 30 meters (92 to 100 feet)

The shallowest parts of the wreck are often accessible even to snorkelers in calm conditions. The upper structure, especially the stern section, can be explored by Open Water divers, while Advanced Open Water divers can safely explore the deeper sections near the bow.

Perfect for All Certification Levels

One of the reasons the USAT Liberty Wreck is so popular is its versatility.

Snorkelers can enjoy the upper parts of the wreck in shallow water.
Open Water divers can comfortably explore large portions of the ship between 10 and 18 meters.
Advanced divers can reach the deeper areas approaching 30 meters.

Because the maximum recreational depth for Open Water certification is typically 18 meters, many entry-level divers focus on the midsection and upper structure. Those with advanced certification can explore the deeper bow area and enjoy longer bottom times at depth.

What Affects the Perceived Depth?

Although the maximum depth is around 30 meters, several factors can influence how deep the dive feels:

Entry from Shore: Divers walk directly from the beach into the water. The slope gradually descends, so depth increases slowly.
Visibility: On good days, visibility can exceed 20 meters, making the wreck appear closer and more open.
Current Conditions: Tulamben generally has mild currents, but occasional surge can make depth changes feel more noticeable.

Because of the gradual slope and easy shore access, the dive often feels less intimidating than boat dives that drop directly into deeper water.

A Living Reef at Every Depth

The depth variation also creates different marine habitats along the wreck. In the shallow 5 to 10 meter range, you will often find:

Schools of fusiliers
Parrotfish
Damselfish
Colorful corals and sponges

Between 15 and 25 meters, divers frequently encounter:

Large schools of jackfish
Bumphead parrotfish (especially early morning)
Moray eels
Barracuda
Reef sharks on occasion

The deeper sections tend to host larger pelagic visitors and offer dramatic views of the wreck’s structure disappearing into the blue.

Best Time to Dive the Wreck

Early morning is widely considered the best time to dive the USAT Liberty Wreck. At sunrise, marine life activity is high, and visibility is often at its best. It is also the best time to see the famous bumphead parrotfish feeding along the wreck.

Because the wreck is relatively shallow compared to many famous wreck dives worldwide, divers can enjoy long bottom times and multiple dives in a single day without extreme depth exposure.

Final Thoughts

So, how deep is the USAT Liberty Wreck? It ranges from approximately 5 meters to about 30 meters, making it one of the most accessible and diver-friendly wrecks in the world. Whether you are a snorkeler, a newly certified diver, or an experienced underwater explorer, the depth profile offers something for everyone.

Its combination of easy shore access, moderate depth, abundant marine life, and historical significance makes the USAT Liberty Wreck a true Bali diving icon and a site that continues to impress divers year after year.