There’s something uniquely thrilling about descending into the deep blue and seeing the ghostly silhouette of a sunken submarine emerge from the gloom. These relics of the sea carry immense historical weight, and diving them offers not just adventure but a profound connection with the past. Whether you’re a seasoned wreck diver or just dipping your fins into the world of underwater exploration, submarine wrecks provide some of the most fascinating dives around.

Let’s take a dive into some of the most intriguing submarine wrecks you can explore, from shallow beginners’ sites to deeper advanced dives — and yes, we’re starting with a charming little one in the UK.

1. Stony Cove, UK – The Baby Sub at 5 Metres

For those just getting started or wanting an easy, accessible submarine wreck dive, Stony Cove in Leicestershire is home to a small training submarine wreck that sits at just 5 metres deep. It’s a perfect introduction to wreck diving and great for practicing buoyancy and navigation. While it’s not a real sunken war sub, it’s a cool little teaser that sparks the imagination and makes for an excellent dive with minimal effort.

2. HMS M2 – Portland, England (30–35m)

The HMS M2 is one of the most iconic submarine dives in UK waters. Sitting upright on the seabed just off the coast of Portland, Dorset, it’s often referred to as the world’s first underwater aircraft carrier — complete with a hangar and catapult system that once launched a seaplane. The M2 is accessible for advanced recreational divers and offers a fascinating look into experimental military history. Just make sure to pick a good day — UK weather doesn’t always play nice.

3. U-352 – North Carolina, USA (35m)

Wreck diving doesn’t get more dramatic than this. The U-352, a Nazi German submarine sunk by the US Coast Guard in 1942, rests off the coast of Morehead City, North Carolina. Sitting at about 115 feet (35m), this dive offers excellent visibility and warm waters in the summer months — no dry suit needed. It’s haunting, historic, and wildly popular with divers. Several operators in the area offer trips, making it a must-do if you’re diving the U.S. East Coast.

For a broader list of incredible diving spots in warm waters (including some of these submarine wrecks), check out Ventana Travel’s blog post on scuba diving in Baja.

4. U-853 – Rhode Island, USA (40m)

Just seven miles off the coast of Rhode Island lies another German sub, the U-853. This wreck is slightly deeper and colder than U-352, but many divers who’ve done both prefer this one for its accessibility and intact structure. In late summer, you can dive it comfortably in a 5–7mm wetsuit. Plus, the history surrounding its sinking during the final days of WWII makes it an emotional dive for many.

5. The Japanese I-169 – Truk Lagoon, Micronesia (40m)

For tech divers and history buffs willing to travel, the I-169 in Chuuk (Truk Lagoon) is the crown jewel of submarine wrecks. This Japanese submarine tragically sank in 1944 and now rests at around 40m. It’s not for the faint of heart — tight penetrations, preserved torpedoes, and deep water make it a serious undertaking. But for those qualified, it’s one of the most unforgettable wreck dives in the world.

6. J4 Submarine – Port Phillip Bay, Australia (26m)

Located just outside Melbourne, this Australian sub wreck offers a relatively shallow and accessible dive at 26m. The J4 is popular among local divers and known for its marine life and eerie, tubular interior. Don’t expect warm water year-round though — locals recommend a dry suit most of the year!

Plan Your Submarine Wreck Dive Adventure

Whether you’re staying close to home or traveling to the ends of the Earth, there’s a submarine wreck out there for you. And if you’re dreaming of wrecks in warm waters with rich history and vibrant marine life, Baja California is a surprisingly underrated hotspot.

For personalized dive travel planning, gear rentals, and guided dive tours, visit VentanaTravel.com — they specialize in unforgettable underwater experiences, including historic wreck dives that you’ll be talking about for years.

Final Thought From 5 metres in a quiet UK lake to the depths of the Pacific exploring WWII relics, submarine wreck diving is a journey into the past with every breath. Whether you’re in it for the history, the adventure, or just the sheer cool factor — there’s no dive quite like a dive into the depths of a submarine’s final resting place.

Have you dived a submarine wreck? Share your favorite in the comments — and who knows, maybe it’ll be the next on our list!

Want more underwater inspiration? Dive into the full world of warm-water diving spots here. 🌊🐠