Keyodhoo Shipwreck Vaavu
Explore a mysterious sunken vessel teeming with vibrant coral and marine life in the turquoise waters of Vaavu Atoll.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light
Keyodhoo Shipwreck Vaavu
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore a mysterious sunken vessel teeming with vibrant coral and marine life in the turquoise waters of Vaavu Atoll.
"Dive into an enchanting underwater world at the Keyodhoo Shipwreck, a haven for fish and corals."
📸 Bring a waterproof camera
Capture the vibrant marine life and unique shipwreck features. Many visitors rave about the photo opportunities!
🤿 Snorkel, don't swim inside
While you can swim through parts, snorkeling around the wreck is safer and offers great views of marine life.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Iconic Bicycle
Shipwreck Hull
Pose with the famous bicycle attached to the hull for an unforgettable photo opportunity. It's a unique and quirky element of the shipwreck.

Vibrant Marine Life
Around the Shipwreck
Witness a kaleidoscope of fish and healthy corals that have made the wreck their home. Keep an eye out for table corals and clownfish.
Exploring the Captain's Cabin
Inside the Shipwreck
Carefully swim through the remnants of the captain's cabin, imagining the stories this vessel holds. A truly immersive underwater experience.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Keyodhoo Shipwreck
What to Bring for Your Shipwreck Adventure
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Bring a waterproof camera
Capture the vibrant marine life and unique shipwreck features. Many visitors rave about the photo opportunities!
🤿 Snorkel, don't swim inside
While you can swim through parts, snorkeling around the wreck is safer and offers great views of marine life.
🦈 Watch for marine life
Sharks and rays are often spotted near Keyodhoo. Enjoy observing them from a safe distance.
🍪 Feed the fish (responsibly)
Some visitors enjoy feeding fish with crumbled cookies for a unique underwater ballet experience.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Bring a waterproof camera
Capture the vibrant marine life and unique shipwreck features. Many visitors rave about the photo opportunities!
🤿 Snorkel, don't swim inside
While you can swim through parts, snorkeling around the wreck is safer and offers great views of marine life.
🦈 Watch for marine life
Sharks and rays are often spotted near Keyodhoo. Enjoy observing them from a safe distance.
🍪 Feed the fish (responsibly)
Some visitors enjoy feeding fish with crumbled cookies for a unique underwater ballet experience.
🚤 Book a local tour
Many guesthouses and local operators offer trips to the shipwreck, often combined with other activities.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Keyodhoo Shipwreck for its unique underwater scenery and abundant marine life. The accessible depth makes it ideal for snorkeling, and the iconic bicycle on the hull provides a memorable photo opportunity. Some find the stories surrounding the wreck fascinating, while others simply enjoy the vibrant coral and fish.
"Located in Vaavu atol. This shipwreck is Half-submerged in the crystal turquoise ocean. The shipwreck is speculated to be an Indonesian vessel that drifted in. Like all wrecks, Healthy corals and schools of fish call this wreck home, among them are table corals and clownfish. We can swim through the captain's cabin, and hold onto that iconic bicycle attached to the hull for picture. The ship is about 10-12 meters depth. This spot is one of the recommended place to visit."
Minuita 221
"Cool for visits, you can snorkel here around the wreck. Swimming inside is not recommended for obvious reasons."
P P
"Diving amidst the wreckage of a beautiful sunken fishing trawler in the Maldives was an enchanting experience. The vibrant hues of countless fish surrounded me as I delicately fed them crumbled cookies underwater. It was a surreal underwater ballet of colors and marine life, making each moment a captivating dance beneath the waves."
Dawid Dudek
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Keyodhoo Shipwreck is located in the Vaavu Atoll. Access is typically via boat from the island of Keyodhoo. Many guesthouses on Keyodhoo offer excursions to the shipwreck, often as part of a package. Transfers from Malé International Airport to Keyodhoo can be arranged via speedboat or domestic flight followed by a speedboat.
Yes, Keyodhoo Island is accessible by speedboat from Malé. The journey takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours. Local guesthouses can help arrange these transfers.
Vaavu Atoll, where Keyodhoo is located, is best reached by speedboat from Malé. Some resorts may offer private transfers. The journey offers scenic views of the Maldivian atolls.
Public ferries are available but are significantly slower and less frequent than speedboats. For most tourists, a speedboat transfer arranged by your guesthouse or a tour operator is the most convenient option.
While possible, it's most convenient to visit the Keyodhoo Shipwreck from Keyodhoo Island itself. Day trips from other islands might be available but could be more costly and time-consuming.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There isn't a specific entry ticket for the shipwreck itself, as it's an open-water site. However, you will need to pay for a boat tour or excursion to reach the location. These tours are often booked through your guesthouse on Keyodhoo.
The shipwreck is accessible during daylight hours. The best times for visibility and marine life activity are generally in the morning and late afternoon. Tours typically operate within these hours.
The cost varies depending on the tour operator and what's included. Expect to pay for a boat trip, which might also include snorkeling gear rental. Prices can range from $30-$70 USD per person for a half-day excursion.
While you can technically snorkel independently if you have your own boat, it's highly recommended to go with a guided tour. Guides know the best spots, ensure safety, and can point out interesting marine life.
The main restriction is to be respectful of the marine environment. Avoid touching corals or disturbing the marine life. Swimming inside the wreck is generally not recommended for safety reasons.
🎫 🐠 Onsite Experience
You can expect to see a variety of fish, including clownfish, and healthy coral formations. Sharks and rays are also frequently spotted in the area.
Snorkeling at the Keyodhoo Shipwreck is generally safe, especially when going with a guided tour. The water depth is around 10-12 meters (30-40 feet), making it accessible for snorkelers.
The shipwreck is approximately 10-12 meters (30-40 feet) deep, making it an ideal spot for snorkeling. The upper parts of the wreck are often visible from the surface.
While the upper parts might be accessible, swimming deep inside the shipwreck is not recommended due to potential hazards and structural instability. Snorkeling around it is the preferred and safer way to explore.
The exact origin is debated, but it's speculated to be an Indonesian vessel that drifted ashore. Legends suggest it could have been a trading ship from the early 19th century or even a pirate ship.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
The iconic bicycle attached to the hull is a must-capture. Also, focus on the vibrant coral formations and the diverse schools of fish swimming around the wreck. The clear turquoise water provides a stunning backdrop.
A waterproof camera or a waterproof phone case is highly recommended to capture the underwater beauty. This allows you to get close to the marine life and the shipwreck itself.
Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best light for photography. The golden hour can create magical shots with the sun's rays filtering through the water.
Besides the bicycle, try to capture the interplay of light and shadow on the wreck, the colorful corals, and the schools of fish. Swimming through the captain's cabin can also yield dramatic shots.
Be patient and move slowly to avoid scaring the fish. Getting close enough for a clear shot without disturbing them is key. Consider using a wide-angle lens if possible for broader underwater scenes.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
When planning a family trip, opt for tours that are specifically geared towards families or offer a more relaxed pace. Ensure your children have properly fitting life vests and snorkeling gear. The iconic bicycle on the hull is also a fun element for kids to spot and take pictures with. Remember to pack plenty of sun protection and stay hydrated.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Don't miss the chance to capture the famous bicycle attached to the hull – it's a signature shot. Experiment with different angles, focusing on both the macro details of the corals and fish, as well as wider shots of the entire wreck. Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best natural light, creating a magical atmosphere. A waterproof camera or housing is essential for capturing the underwater scenes effectively.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legend of the Keyodhoo Shipwreck
Over time, nature has reclaimed the vessel, turning it into a thriving habitat for diverse marine species. Healthy corals, including table corals, have attached themselves to the hull, creating a colorful spectacle. Schools of fish dart in and out of the ship's structure, making it a prime spot for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts. The wreck serves as a poignant reminder of nature's ability to repurpose and create beauty even from remnants of the past.
Visitors often marvel at how the shipwreck has become a testament to life's persistence. The upper parts of the ship remain visible, while the lower sections rest on the seabed, inviting exploration. The presence of the iconic bicycle attached to the hull adds a quirky and memorable element, making it a popular spot for unique photographs.
Snorkeling and Diving at the Wreck
When snorkeling, you can glide over the upper decks and observe the vibrant coral gardens that have flourished on the hull. Keep an eye out for the colorful inhabitants, including various reef fish and perhaps even a sea turtle. While it's tempting to explore the interior, it's generally advised to stick to snorkeling around the exterior for safety reasons. The wreck's structure can be unstable, and currents can be unpredictable.
For certified divers, the shipwreck offers a more immersive experience. You can explore deeper sections of the wreck, potentially swimming through areas like the captain's cabin, though caution is always advised. The surrounding waters are also rich with marine life, so divers can expect encounters with larger species like reef sharks and rays. Many local guesthouses and dive centers on Keyodhoo offer guided snorkeling and diving trips to the shipwreck.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit