Located beneath the turquoise blue waters of the seductive Maldives, lies some of the world’s most fascinating dive sites that are just waiting to be explored. One such enthralling dive site is the British Loyalty Shipwreck that came to rest in 1946. Built in 1928, this 5.583 ton oil tanker was torpedoed twice during the Second World War, and left in Addu Atoll after the British withdrew from the Gan Island.

The 140 meter long British Loyalty Shipwreck’s bottom lies 33 meters below the surface and has proved to be one Maldives most popular dive sites. Ardent divers will surely find this tourist attraction as a worthwhile visit. The hull of the wreckage is covered by a generous proportion of hard and soft coral, whilst the deck is often frequented by schools of blue fin trevally and large turtles. The wreck lies on the starboard and the railings are dotted by large balls of coral that take upon the impression of natural fenders. Take time to explore the varieties of native fish that live inside the coral that can be found in and around the wreckage.

There are two large holes that divers can easily swim through the ship; one is situated on the keel while the other is on the deck. The holes are rumoured to be caused by torpedoes and adds to the breathtaking beauty waiting to be discovered. The British Loyalty Shipwreck can be ideally visited anywhere between the months of November through to May, with visibility reaching 20 to 60 meters below the surface and more.

Just a 30 minute boat ride from Shangri-La’s Villingili Resort and Spa, the British Loyalty Shipwreck is bountiful in marine life and worth the experience. Enjoy the lush tropical foliage and sun kissed beaches from one of the most enchanting beach resort in Maldives when you choose to stay at Shangri-La’s Villingili Resort and Spa.