Dive SS President Coolidge
Dive the largest most accessible ship wreck in the world.
At 205m long and 27m beam, the SS President Coolidge – she offers something for all levels of diver experience from newly trained open water divers to Tech qualified.
Location
Just outside of Luganville, Vanuatu
Depth
20-70 meters
Type
SS Luxury Liner
Build
October 1931
Sunk
October 1942
Length
200 meters
Tons
21,936
Location
Just outside of Luganville, Vanuatu
Depth
20-70 meters
Type
SS Luxury Liner
Build
October 1931
Sunk
October 1942
Length
200 meters
Tons
21,936
The Wreck of the SS President Coolidge
Once a grand luxury ocean liner, the SS President Coolidge met an unexpected fate during World War II when she struck friendly mines while carrying over 5,740 troops to Espiritu Santo, Vanuatu. Originally designed to transport the elite, the vessel was later repurposed as a troopship to support the war effort.
On October 26, 1942, as she approached the harbor, unaware of newly deployed U.S. defensive mines, the Coolidge struck two explosive devices. Despite rapid evacuation efforts, the ship was unable to be salvaged and dramatically sank just offshore. Today, she rests as one of the most accessible and awe-inspiring wreck dives in the world.
An Underwater Time Capsule
At 205 meters long and 27 meters wide, the SS President Coolidge offers divers an unparalleled opportunity to explore a piece of living history. Her depths range from 18 meters at the bow to 65 meters at the stern, making it an ideal dive for both recreational and technical divers.
Inside, remnants of World War II remain remarkably intact. Discover military vehicles such as Willys Jeeps and GMC trucks, stacks of ammunition, medical supplies, and even personal belongings of soldiers and crew. But beyond the war relics, divers can also glimpse the ship’s former elegance—swim past the grand ballroom, a mosaic-tiled fountain, The Lady statue, and an old swimming pool.
An Unforgettable Dive Experience
With over 20 dive routes to explore—including cargo holds, the galley, engine room, and medical bay—there is something for everyone. The wreck is located just 15 minutes from shore, making it an easy and rewarding dive site.
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