Top five wrecks for snorkellers

The underwater world is, for divers, the ultimate in discovery. Sunken wrecks, colourful coral, mesmerising mammals and fascinating fish await those who take the plunge. But what about those non-divers out there who want to share in this diverse underwater universe? Here’s the top five wrecks for snorkelers, as suggested by Regaldive.

1. Lusong Gunboat – Palawan, Philippines
This wreck is ideal for snorkellers to explore. Situated just 10m down in crystal clear water, it’s a small but incredibly pretty wreck. Adjacent, a beautiful coral reef is beginning to colonise the wreck producing a teaming array of marine life and colourful coral. No diving necessary!

2. USAT Liberty – Bali, Indonesia
Just 7m under the water you will find the USAT Liberty, a 120 metre-long freighter which was sunk by the Japanese whilst motoring across the Lombok Strait. Lying almost parallel to the beach, it’s pretty difficult to list what you will see at this wreck because you will come across just about anything and everything found in any Indo-Pacific reef guidebook.

3. Tugboat – Curaçao, Caribbean
There is one word which really describes this wreck and it’s cute. This site is very popular and given its diversity is great for snorkellers. The wreck sits at 5m after sinking 25 years ago, covered in coral and well preserved; it teems with marine life including morays, trumpetfish, angelfish and tube coral.

4. Brunswick wreck – Cape Town, South Africa
This English East-Indiaman ran aground in 1805, and is of significant historical importance. Of wooden construction, the remains of her timber hull have been well surveyed by marine archaeologists. Sitting at just 5m deep, this shallow and interesting wreck has many colourful critters living around it just waiting to be spotted.

5. Underwater Sculpture Park – Grenada, Caribbean
Although strictly not a wreck, this incredible and unusual Underwater Sculpture Park sneaks onto the list as it really is a must-do for all snorkellers! The park is the work of sculptor, Jason Taylor, from England, The unique pieces of art depict Grenada’s colourful history and folklore. All of the sculptures are in beautiful, clear shallow water, easily accessible by snorkellers. The sculptures create artificial reefs, further enhancing the marine environment.