A Journey Through Time: The Origins of HTMS Sattakut Wreck
The HTMS Sattakut wreck is a former U.S. Navy ship with a fascinating past. Originally commissioned as the USS LCI(L)-739, it served during World War II, participating in historic battles including Operation Iwo Jima and Okinawa Gunto. In 1947, the vessel was transferred to the Royal Thai Navy, where it served for decades before being decommissioned. In 2011, the ship was intentionally sunk near Koh Tao to create an artificial reef and dive site. Today, the HTMS Sattakut wreck offers divers a unique chance to explore a piece of naval history beneath the waves of the Gulf of Thailand.
Dive Site Overview: Location, Conditions & Accessibility
The HTMS Sattakut lies just off the west coast of Koh Tao, around 15 to 20 minutes by boat from the main pier. The wreck rests on the sandy seafloor at a depth of approximately 30 metres, with the top of the tower reaching up to 18 metres, making it ideal for Advanced Open Water divers and beyond. Located just south of Hin Pee Wee, it is often paired with this neighboring pinnacle site for extended dive plans or deco stops.
Water conditions can vary, with visibility ranging from 5 to 30 metres. The wreck is best visited from March to October when seas are calmer. Due to the depth and potential for currents, it is recommended that divers have at least an SSI Advanced Adventurer certification. The wreck also serves as a popular training site for the SSI Wreck Diving Specialty and SSI Deep Diving Specialty.
The Diving Experience: Wreck Structure & Marine Life Encounters
Measuring 48 metres in length and 7 metres in width, the HTMS Sattakut offers ample opportunity for exploration. Key features include twin cannon guns located at the bow and stern, accessible portholes, a large steering cabin, and the central wheelhouse. Divers can navigate around the deck or, with the proper certification, penetrate the interior corridors for a more immersive experience.
The wreck has become a thriving artificial reef, attracting a wide variety of marine life. Expect to encounter schools of Yellowtail Barracuda, Giant Groupers, Snappers, Scorpionfish, and the elusive Durban Dancing Shrimp. Hard and soft corals now blanket many surfaces, making it a magnet for underwater photographers and marine life enthusiasts alike.
For divers interested in skill development, the HTMS Sattakut is an ideal environment to practice buoyancy control, line handling, and wreck penetration under the guidance of an instructor. Many dive schools on Koh Tao, including Chalok Reef Divers, offer SSI Wreck Diver Specialty training on this site.
Plan Your Adventure with Chalok Reef Divers
Chalok Reef Divers offers guided dives to the HTMS Sattakut wreck as part of our regular dive trips. Whether you’re looking to explore the wreck for the first time or complete a specialty course, our experienced SSI instructors can help tailor your dive to suit your certification level and interests.
Our dive shop provides all necessary gear and thorough pre-dive briefings to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. For those wanting to explore more, nearby sites like Hin Pee Wee and No Name Pinnacle offer stunning coral gardens and macro life.
Booking and Safety Tips:
- Minimum certification: SSI Advanced Adventurer (or equivalent)
- Recommended gear: Torch, dive computer, and SMB
- Avoid touching the wreck or marine life
- Always dive with a buddy and certified dive guide
Conclusion: Why the HTMS Sattakut Wreck is a Must-Dive Site
The HTMS Sattakut is more than just a shipwreck; it is a living, evolving reef and a window into history. Located conveniently off the coast of Koh Tao, it provides both adventure and education to scuba divers of all levels with the right training. Whether you’re a wreck enthusiast, history buff, or marine life photographer, diving the HTMS Sattakut with Chalok Reef Divers is an unforgettable experience.
Book your next wreck diving adventure today with us at Chalok Reef Divers and take a deep dive into the legacy of the HTMS Sattakut.
