British Loyalty Wreck

The British Loyalty Wreck is a World War II–era oil tanker sitting on its starboard side in the lagoon between Maradhoo and Hithadhoo in Addu Atoll. The vessel is roughly 140 metres long with a 16-metre bow and the hull is heavily encrusted with hard and soft corals, forming an artificial reef that supports abundant marine life around the structure. Access is by boat only. The wreck lies at about 33 metres maximum depth, with the top often visible from around 15 metres in good visibility. Water temperatures are about 26–29 °C and visibility typically ranges from 10 m up to 30 m, with the clearest conditions in the dry season (roughly January to March). Currents in the lagoon are generally mild to moderate but drift-diving skills may be needed on ebb or flood tides; divers should maintain good buoyancy and be aware of potential surge in the open hull. Penetration of the wreck is not advised for safety reasons and the site is within a protected area. The depth and wreck complexity make this dive suitable for advanced or technical divers. The British Loyalty was built in 1928, was torpedoed twice during World War II, and was intentionally scuttled by British forces in January 1946. Large holes in the deck and keel from the scuttling allow views into parts of the interior, but the wreck is generally treated as an external site and an artificial reef rather than a penetration dive.