The Most Dangerous Wrecks to Dive in the Marlborough Sounds

by Admin · Published January 14, 2023 · Updated January 14, 2023

The Marlborough Sounds are a network of coastal waterways located at the top of New Zealand’s South Island. The area is renowned for its stunning scenery, with towering mountains, pristine forests and crystal-clear waters. It’s also a popular spot for scuba diving, with a number of wrecks to explore.

However, the Marlborough Sounds can be a treacherous place to dive. Strong currents and cold water make conditions challenging, and there have been a number of fatal accidents in the area. Here are four of the most dangerous wrecks to dive in the Marlborough Sounds.

1. The SS Wairarapa

The SS Wairarapa was a cargo ship that ran aground in the Marlborough Sounds in October 1894. The ship was carrying a load of coal from Australia to Wellington when it hit a reef in bad weather. The impact ripped a hole in the ship’s hull and it quickly began to sink.

Of the 21 crew on board, only six survived. The wreck of the SS Wairarapa lies in 30 metres of water and is a popular dive site. However, it’s also one of the most dangerous, with strong currents and poor visibility.

2. The SS Penguin

The SS Penguin was a cargo ship that ran aground in the Marlborough Sounds in 1909. The ship was carrying a load of coal from Australia to Wellington when it hit a reef in bad weather. The impact ripped a hole in the ship’s hull and it quickly began to sink.

Of the 21 crew on board, only six survived. The wreck of the SS Penguin lies in 30 metres of water and is a popular dive site. However, it’s also one of the most dangerous, with strong currents and poor visibility.

3. The SS Waikare

The SS Waikare was a cargo ship that ran aground in the Marlborough Sounds in 1916. The ship was carrying a load of coal from Australia to Wellington when it hit a reef in bad weather. The impact ripped a hole in the ship’s hull and it quickly began to sink.

Of the 21 crew on board, only six survived. The wreck of the SS Waikare lies in 30 metres of water and is a popular dive site. However, it’s also one of the most dangerous, with strong currents and poor visibility.

4. The SS Orpheus

The SS Orpheus was a cargo ship that ran aground in the Marlborough Sounds in 1917. The ship was carrying a load of coal from Australia to Wellington when it hit a reef in bad weather. The impact ripped a hole in the ship’s hull and it quickly began to sink.

Of the 21 crew on board, only six survived. The wreck of the SS Orpheus lies in 30 metres of water and is a popular dive site. However, it’s also one of the most dangerous, with strong currents and poor visibility.