Yong Hua Wreck

The Yong Hua is a sunken fish-processing vessel lying off Koh Lipe that now forms an artificial reef. The intact 65 m hull and superstructure are colonized by corals, sponges and gorgonians, creating a visually compelling site. Large animals are a highlight; a resident giant grouper commonly appears and schools of chevron barracuda are often seen around the wreck. Dives reach first contact around 28-30 m with the wreck resting on a sandy bottom at about 42-45 m, so the site requires advanced certification and careful planning and divers must stay within no-decompression limits. Visibility is typically 5-15 m on a good day. Currents can be moderate to strong, so plan for drift profiles or use reef hooks as needed. Access is by boat only (about a 10-15 minute ride from Koh Lipe). Park regulations prohibit penetration of the interior; dives consist of circumnavigating and inspecting the exterior of the hull and superstructure. The vessel is roughly 65 m long and rests upright on its starboard side; notable features include the engine room, wheelhouse and stern propellers which remain in place. The wreck serves as an artificial reef supporting barrel sponges, gorgonian sea fans and abundant reef fish, and interior entry is not permitted.