Welcome to the Sata wreck, located in the Urukthapel anchorage, southeast of Koror, just 6 miles (10 kilometers) away. This Japanese military fleet tanker was bombed and sunk during operation DESECRATE ONE, on March 30-31, 1944, along with its sister ship, the Iro. The Sata wreck is a fascinating dive site for experienced wreck divers who are also WWII history enthusiasts.
The Sata wreck lies 250 yards north of the buoy marking the Iro wreck. Although the visibility in this area can vary greatly with the tide, usually it offers up to 60 feet (20 meters) visibility on the wreck. The depth of the dive site ranges from 110 to 120 feet (33-37 meters), with the hull of the ship at a depth of 60 feet (18 meters).
Divers can expect an abundance of fish life around the wreck, including Rainbow Runners, Sergeant Majors, Moorish Idols, Batfish, and Angelfish. The bottom of the ship is covered with extensive growth of hard corals, Wire Corals, and other sessile growth.
It is important to note that this is not a wreck for recreational divers. The Sata wreck is upside down, and although it offers a unique photo opportunity with the huge propeller covered with marine growth, none but the most serious WWII history experts with wreck diving experience should attempt to penetrate this wreck. Moreover, the wreck's position and heavy layers of silt can easily disorient divers attempting to enter the wreck.
Divers are also advised to avoid picking up any ammunition they may come across while diving the Sata wreck, as live ammunition can be found on all ship and plane wrecks in Palau waters. Due to the age of the bullets, bombs, mortars, etc., these pieces of history are very unstable and can explode.
To reach the Sata wreck, divers can take a 15-minute speedboat ride from Koror. Although there are no strong currents around the dive site, it is recommended that only intermediate to advanced divers attempt this dive.
In summary, the Sata wreck is a challenging and exciting dive site for experienced wreck divers with a passion for WWII history. The abundance of marine life and unique photo opportunities make it a must-visit dive site in Palau. However, caution should be exercised while diving, and it is essential to follow all safety protocols to have a safe and enjoyable experience.
At the Sata wreck, divers can witness the remains of a once-great Japanese military fleet tanker that played a vital role during the Second World War. Built-in 1922 by Yokohama Docks, Yokohama, Japan, the Sata was sunk during a series of U.S. Navy bombings. Although the ship's name has been confirmed as Sata, it remains uncertain whether it is the Sata or Iro, as both ships were identical and did not carry any identifying names or serial numbers.
The Sata wreck rests upside down, with the bow at 120 feet (37 meters) and the stern at 110 feet (33 meters). The ship's bottom is composed of fine clay and silt, with no coral reef structures near the wreck. Although it is possible to enter one of the holds of the ship through a large hole on the port side near the stern, this is not recommended due to the ship's age and structural deterioration.
Diving the Sata wreck is not only an exhilarating experience but also an opportunity to witness the abundant marine life that surrounds the area. Divers can spot several species of fish, including Batfish, Angelfish, Moorish Idols, Rainbow Runners, and Sergeant Majors. The bottom of the ship is covered in extensive growth of hard corals, Wire Corals, and other sessile growth.
As a wreck diving expert, it is important to remind all divers that the Sata wreck is not a site for recreational diving. Only intermediate to advanced divers with wreck diving experience and a passion for WWII history should attempt this dive. Moreover, the position and heavy layers of silt around the wreck can easily disorient divers attempting to enter the wreck.
Overall, the Sata wreck offers a unique and exciting opportunity for experienced divers looking for a challenge. Its historical significance, abundance of marine life, and unique photo opportunities make it a must-visit dive site in Palau. However, safety should always be the top priority while diving, and all divers must follow proper protocols to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
