Gili Trawangan: Bounty Wreck Dive Site – Lombok
Site Overview
The Bounty Wreck is a small artificial reef created from a former fishing vessel that now rests on a sandy bottom near the Gili Trawangan harbor at depths of 5 to 20 meters. Despite its modest size, the wreck has become one of the most popular dive sites around the Gili Islands due to its extraordinary macro life and accessibility for all diving levels. The metal structure has been extensively colonized by soft corals, sponges, barnacles, and crinoids, transforming it into a thriving artificial reef that supports a remarkable diversity of small marine creatures. Striated frogfish are a highlight, commonly found perched on the wreck structure in various colors from bright yellow to dark brown. Moray eels peek from every opening, lionfish hover around the overhangs, and scorpionfish camouflage perfectly against the encrusted hull. Nudibranchs of numerous species crawl across the wreck surface, making this a macro photographer's paradise. The wreck's proximity to the harbor means the boat ride is just five minutes, and the sheltered bay location ensures calm conditions year-round. The Bounty Wreck is frequently combined with Halik or Shark Point for a two-tank day trip, offering a nice contrast between wreck macro diving and open reef exploration. The site is also popular for night dives when the wreck comes alive with hunting moray eels, lobsters, and bioluminescent organisms.
Dive Briefing
"The dive begins with a descent from the boat directly onto the wreck, which is visible from the surface on clear days. The wreck deck sits at approximately 12 meters, with the bow reaching up to 5 meters and the stern resting at 20 meters. Your guide leads you around the exterior of the wreck first, pointing out frogfish on the gunwales and moray eels in the portholes. The deeper stern section features the most dense coral colonization and the highest concentration of critters. You then explore the wreck interior through the open hatches and doorways, using your torch to illuminate the dark spaces where lobsters and shrimp hide. The dive concludes with a slow ascent along the bow section, exploring the shallow coral growth before the safety stop at 5 meters above the sandy bottom. You can take your time on the wreck as the shallow depth allows for a very long and productive dive time."
Signature Marine Life
Frogfish
Antennarius striatus
Best: January, February, March
Moray eel
Gymnothorax javanicus
Lionfish
Pterois volitans
Scorpionfish
Scorpaenopsis oxycephala
Nudibranch
Chromodoris willani
Safety & Hazards
- Sharp metal edges on the deteriorating wreck structure
- Lionfish spines around the wreck overhangs
- Scorpionfish camouflaged on the wreck deck
- Potential entanglement with fishing line around the wreck
- Reduced visibility near the sandy bottom if fins disturb sediment
Traveler Notes
Who is this for?
The Bounty Wreck is ideal for beginner divers, macro photography enthusiasts, and anyone looking for an easy, relaxed dive close to shore. The shallow depth, minimal current, and short boat ride make it perfect for refresher dives or for divers who want to focus on finding small critters without dealing with challenging conditions. It is a fantastic site for photographers who want to practice their wreck lighting techniques or macro skills. Because it is so accessible, it is also a great spot for those who want to fit in a quick dive before heading out for Gili Trawangan's famous evening entertainment.
Quick Stats
Dive Logistics
- Gili Trawangan Dive Center
- DSM Dive Gili
- Big Fish Diving
- Manta Dive Gili Trawangan
Photography Info
Best for: macro, wreck
Nearby Stay
Gili Trawangan Resort
Gili Trawangan • 0.3km away
PinkCoco Gili T
Gili Trawangan • 0.2km away