Navy Underwater Museum

The Navy Underwater Dive Museum in Trincomalee is a one-of-a-kind underwater attraction created by the Sri Lanka Navy in July 2020. Situated just off Sandy Bay Beach, the site showcases submerged military artifacts and artistic sculptures, serving both as a cultural landmark and an artificial reef that encourages coral growth and supports diverse marine life.

Navy Underwater Dive Museum

Main Attractions: The highlight of the museum are the two decommissioned Navy gunboats, Ex-SLNS Weeraya (P311) and Ex-SLNS Jagatha (P315), which serve as dramatic underwater landmarks.

Exhibits: Surrounding the vessels are replicas of ancient cannons, military statues, and artistic sculptures that evoke the feel of a mysterious “sunken city.”

Marine Life: Over time, these submerged structures have transformed into vibrant habitats, attracting groupers, batfish, scorpionfish, and a variety of thriving coral species, making it both a cultural and ecological treasure.

Depth & Location: The museum lies approximately 0.5 miles offshore at a depth of around 18 meters (60 feet), offering an impressive underwater experience for divers.

Requirements: Due to its depth, exploring the main wrecks typically requires an Open Water Diver certification or higher.

Best Time to Visit: The ideal season for diving is March to October, when the waters are calm and visibility is at its peak, ensuring the best chance to enjoy the vibrant marine life and submerged exhibits.