Entrance of the underwater museum showcasing marine history

Navy Underwater Dive Museum – A fascinating museum beneath the sea

Navy Underwater Dive Museum – A fascinating museum beneath the sea

✈️ Why should you visit Sigiriya?

The Navy Underwater Dive Museum is a unique artificial reef and cultural site created by the Sri Lanka Navy, featuring sunken gunboats, statues, and military equipment designed to promote marine life and diving tourism in the deep waters of Trincomalee
  • Navy-Built Artificial Reef and Museum: It is a unique concept wholly constructed by the Sri Lanka Navy. It serves a dual purpose as an artificial dive site for tourism and a marine life regeneration project to promote the growth of corals and fish breeding.
  • Exhibits Include Naval Wrecks and Sculptures: The museum features historical maritime exhibits, including two sunken Navy gun boats (Jagatha and Veera), military equipment, and large sculptures (like ancient cannons and architectural columns) handcrafted by naval personnel using eco-friendly materials.
  • “Atlantis-Like” Underwater City Experience: Divers describe the experience as being in an “underwater city” or “Atlantis,” due to the arrangement of the columns and artifacts on the sandy bottom, creating an eerie and fascinating environment.
  • Fast Marine Life Integration: Since being opened in 202 , the site has shown a rapid growth of marine life, with the sunken gun boats already serving as excellent habitats for fish species like groupers and batfish.
  • Located Off Trincomalee’s Sandy Bay: The museum is located off the popular Sandy Bay Beach in Trincomalee, a region on the East Coast famous for its clear waters, making it an ideal destination for certified divers (PADI Open Water required) during the diving season.

Entity

Government

Entrance

Paid

Wheelchair Access

No

Water

Available

Restaurants

Available

Toilets

Available

District: Trincomalee

Reach

Any vehicle

Road Quality

Good

Public Transport

Available

Guidelines

Follow Safety Instructions: Always listen carefully to museum staff, especially around exhibits with water or diving equipment. No Touching the Artifacts: The displays, especially diving gear and underwater relics, are delicate — handle nothing. Photography Rules: Ask before taking photos; some areas or exhibits may have restrictions. Respect the Space: Keep noise low and move carefully — it’s both a museum and a tribute to naval history. Mind Your Footing: Some exhibits mimic underwater terrain or include slippery surfaces; watch your step.