Artificial Reefs & Oil Rig Sites – Brunei Diving

About Artificial Reefs & Oil Rig Sites

Brunei's artificial reef programme represents one of Southeast Asia's most innovative marine habitat creation initiatives, highlighted by the Rig Reef, a decommissioned oil-rig jacket sunk in 2005 that has developed into a fully-fledged reef ecosystem at 10 to 18 metres. The massive steel structure now supports swirling baitfish clouds, lionfish colonies, resident groupers, cleaning stations attracting pelagic visitors, and extensive soft coral growth that has transformed industrial infrastructure into a thriving underwater habitat. Additional concrete modules and old tyres at the rig site provide supplementary structure for macro and reef fish communities. The artificial reef programme reflects Brunei's commitment to marine conservation and habitat enhancement, creating new diving opportunities while supporting biodiversity in the South China Sea. The Rig Reef is reached by a 30-minute boat ride from Serasa and offers a unique diving experience unlike natural coral reefs or traditional wreck sites, showcasing the remarkable speed with which marine life colonises artificial structures in tropical waters.

Highlights

• ✓Rig Reef – decommissioned oil platform transformed into thriving reef ecosystem
• ✓Swirling baitfish clouds creating dramatic wide-angle photography opportunities
• ✓Cleaning stations attracting pelagic visitors including reef sharks and rays
• ✓Concrete modules and tyre structures providing additional macro habitat
• ✓Innovative marine habitat creation showcasing rapid artificial reef colonisation
• ✓30-minute boat transfer from Serasa for easy day-trip access

Getting There

The artificial reef and oil rig sites are reached by boat from Serasa harbour, approximately 30 minutes offshore. The sites are accessible during the dry season from March to September when sea conditions permit safe crossings. Dive operators include the Rig Reef as part of multi-site diving days, often combined with nearby coastal wreck sites or the offshore Pelong Rocks.