SS President Coolidge

SS President Coolidge: The World's Largest Accessible Wreck Dive

Prepare for an unparalleled adventure into history and marine life at the SS President Coolidge dive site, widely regarded as one of the best wreck dives on the planet. This colossal 198-meter (653 ft) American luxury liner, tragically converted to a troopship during World War II, rests on its port side off the south coast of Espiritu Santo, Vanuatu.

A Glimpse into History

On October 26, 1942, while entering Luganville harbour, the SS President Coolidge struck two friendly mines. Through the heroic actions of Captain Elwood Joseph Euart, nearly all 5,000 troops on board were safely evacuated before the ship slipped away from the reef and sank into the channel. Today, this magnificent vessel serves as an underwater museum, offering divers a unique blend of its opulent past and its wartime service.

Diving the Coolidge

The SS President Coolidge is a challenging yet incredibly rewarding dive site, demanding an Advanced Open Water certification as a minimum for many areas. Its sheer size means that exploring the entire wreck would require 10 to 15 dives, with each descent revealing new wonders. We typically access the dive site via a shore entry, wading out before descending onto the wreck.

The bow of the wreck begins at a depth of approximately 21 m, while the stern plunges to a maximum depth of 73 m. The water temperature here is consistently warm, generally ranging from 26°C to 28°C, providing a comfortable environment for extended bottom times. Currents are typically mild, though divers should be aware that longshore currents can occur, especially around the full moon.

As you navigate this incredible wreck, you will find an astonishing array of artifacts. We can explore cargo holds still containing jeeps, trucks, cannons, and military equipment like helmets, gas masks, and rifles. Deeper within, you can discover remnants of its luxury liner days, including a mosaic fountain, chandeliers, and the iconic porcelain bas relief known as "The Lady" (a lady riding a unicorn) in the first-class lounge, often found around 40 m.

Marine Life and Conditions

Beyond the historical treasures, the SS President Coolidge has transformed into a vibrant artificial reef. Divers will find the wreck adorned with corals and sponges, teeming with marine life. We frequently encounter Green Sea Turtles (Chelonia mydas) and the impressive Humphead Wrasse (Napoleon) (Cheilinus undulatus). Keep an eye out for barracuda, lionfish, various reef fish, nudibranchs, and resident moray eels, including "Nessie," a famously large moray eel.

Important Safety Considerations

Given the significant depths involved and the presence of numerous swim-throughs and overhead environments, divers must be prepared for potential decompression obligations. We strongly recommend meticulous dive planning and diving with experienced instructors or guides who are intimately familiar with the wreck's layout and potential hazards.

The SS President Coolidge is more than just a dive site; it is a profound journey into a preserved moment in time, offering an unforgettable experience for advanced wreck divers.