A New Scuba Diving Era in Sindhudurg Sindhudurg, which is already famous for its unspoiled beach and rich marine bio-diversity, now boasts one of India's most exciting underwater activities—scuba diving at the INS Guldar wreck. This historic naval warship has been deliberately sunk off the coast to form India's first underwater museum and artificial reef, and it's a must-visit destination for diving lovers.
What is INS Guldar? From Navy Warship to Marine Haven
INS Guldar, an Indian Navy landing ship, served for nearly 39 years in amphibious operations. Decommissioned in 2024, it will be transformed into India’s first underwater museum and artificial reef in Sindhudurg, promoting marine conservation, scuba diving, tourism, and creating a habitat for ocean biodiversity.
Why INS Guldar is a Game-Changer for Scuba Diving
Get up close and personal with history: Meet a real naval warship up close, now a thriving marine ecosystem.
Artificial Reef for Sea Life: The shipwreck serves as a haven for fish and other sea creatures, forming a stunning sea environment.
Suitable for All Levels of Competence: Whether you are a novice or a seasoned diver, different routes and depths make it ideal for everyone.
Paradise for Underwater Photography: Capture stunning shots of the wreck, colorful coral structures, and tropical sea life.
Environmentally Friendly & Safe Diving: The ship has been thoroughly cleaned to ensure a pollution-free and safe diving experience.
International Precedents for Artificial Reefs Artificial reefs constructed from decommissioned warships have proven effective globally to enhance marine biodiversity and tourism. Some of the most well-known examples
USS Spiegel Grove (USA): Decommissioned US Navy landing ship deliberately sunk off the coast of Florida to promote marine life and diving tourism.
Thai Royal Navy Ships (Thailand): Wrecks off Chonburi to create new sea habitats and tourism dive sites.
These artificial reefs have contributed significantly to the tourism revenue, with Florida generating approximately ₹50 crore annually from scuba diving. The INS Guldar project is hoping to replicate the same success in Sindhudurg.
What to Expect When Diving at INS Guldar Pre-Dive Preparation
Trained guides provide a comprehensive briefing of safety protocols and dive routes.
Advanced diving gear, such as masks, fins, wetsuits, and oxygen cylinders, is provided.
Beginners can opt for training sessions before the actual full dive.
The Dive Experience
Enter the water and descend slowly and be guided by experienced divers.
Observe INS Guldar's massive structure, presently occupied by thriving sea life.
Observe for schools of fish, vibrant coral reefs, and even threatened species like moray eels, sea turtles, and stingrays.
Visit different parts of the ship, such as decks, cargo containers, and corridors.
Stay underwater for no longer than 45 minutes, depending on your certification level.
Post-Dive Activities
Surface safely under the guidance of experts and back to the dive boat.
Conduct a debriefing meeting with your teachers to discuss your experience.
Take underwater photos and videos as a memento of your dive.
Project Details: INS Guldar's Voyage to Sindhudurg
Vessel Details: INS Guldar is an 83-meter Kumbhir-class landing craft, formerly built in Poland and commissioned in 1985 into the Indian Navy.
Decommissioning & Transfer: The vessel was decommissioned on 12th January 2024 and is currently being shifted from Port Blair to Karwar.
Sink Site: It will be deliberately sunk off Nivati Rocks, off Vengurla coast, Sindhudurg District.
Project Cost & Planning: A detailed project report of ₹20 crore has been prepared and environmental clearances are being applied for by the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board and the Maharashtra Coastal Zone Management Authority.
Ideal Time for Scuba Diving at INS Guldar
October to March: The peaceful state of the sea and transparent waters make it the best time.
Monsoon Season (June to September): Skip diving due to turbulent seas.
INS Guldar Economic & Environmental Impact
Sindhudurg Scuba Diving Tourism Development: The project should increase the tourist arrivals, thus making Sindhudurg a leading scuba diving tourist destination in India.
Development of Job Opportunities: Job creation for former naval personnel, dive instructors, and tourism operators.
Economic Benefits: The wreck will act as an artificial reef, encouraging fish populations and reviving ruined ecosystems.
International Comparisons: Comparable projects elsewhere in the world have been extremely successful with diving tourism generating millions of dollars.
Who Can Dive at INS Guldar? Beginners
No experience necessary only basic swimming skills.
Introductory dives with professional instruction available.
Non-Divers
Snorkel equipment for those who are interested in studying the surface waters.
Glass-bottom boat tours provide a transparent view of the sea floor.
Certified Divers
More challenging routes open for professional divers to explore the deeper areas of the shipwreck.
Choice for wreck penetration dives under instructor supervision.
How to Book Your Scuba Diving Experience in Sindhudurg
Certified Dive Centers: Certain government-approved scuba diving centers in Sindhudurg provide guided tours.
Scuba Diving in Sindhudurg Price: Price depends on the type of dive (introductory or advanced) and other services such as underwater photography.
Private & Group Dives: Open for singles, couples, and group bookings.
Safety & Environmental Precautions Before sinking, INS Guldar is being decontaminated thoroughly to make the dive site safe:
Hazmat Removal: Everything from hydraulic and engine oil to asbestos, as well as all pollutants, will be removed.
Three-Month Cleaning Process: Ensures the vessel is not harmful to the environment prior to its submersion.
Reducing Disturbance: Divers will be educated on passing safely through the wreck without disturbing sea animals.
Other Water Sports in Sindhudurg Although the scuba diving at INS Guldar is the highlight, you can also indulge in:
Snorkeling: Another excellent choice for a person who does not want the whole experience too intense.
Jet Skiing & Parasailing: Inject some thrill into your holiday with water sports that give you speed.
Dolphin Safaris: Catch a glimpse of dolphins in their natural habitat.
Now onwards with international destinations, with the launch of the INS Guldar wreck dive. Whether you're looking for an adventure, marine discovery, or simply a once in a lifetime experience, diving at INS Guldar offers a rare mix of history and natural beauty underwater.
Book Your Sindhudurg Scuba Diving Adventure Today and Be One of the First to Uncover This Historic Underwater Treasure!
