The King Cruiser was originally a car ferry in Japan before being used to transport passengers between Phuket and Ko Phi Phi. On May 4th, 1997, the ferry hit the dive site Anemone Reef and quickly sank. All the passengers were rescued by nearby dive and fishing boats and there were no casualties.
The steel wreck has now evolved into a fantastic natural reef and is home to a huge variety of marine life, who seek shelter within it.

The wreck sits at 32m, is 85 m long by 35 m wide, and has four decks with large walkways and windows. It is fantastic for getting those atmospheric wide angle shots. It’s highest point is the Captains Cabin at 12 metres where an array of schooling fish hang sheltered from the current. Along the side of the wreck, you can see through the stairwells into the main body, and down at the deepest point, the massive propellor, which are both perfect subjects for practicing those eerie black and white shots.
For the humorous minded, the toilets are still intact sitting on the main deck…..!

Although the wreck is now considered unsafe to penetrate, there are still areas to swim through and get that authentic ship wreck atmosphere.

This artificial reef is completely covered in Scorpionfish (be careful where you put your fingers!) and Lionfish and is home to enormous schools of Travellie, Batfish, Pufferfish and Snappers. There is a huge Turtle that lives inside – you can often spot him as he comes towards the surface to breathe. You can also find Octopus, many types of Moray Eel and all sorts of unexpected visitors who come to see if this haven might house a tasty snack. There have been sightings of Whale Sharks, various Reef Sharks, enormous 2m Groupers and even a Bull Shark!

The King Cruiser is a deeper dive site and can sometimes be subjected to strong currents and reduced visability so is therefore only recommended for experienced divers.