intermediate
    (85)

    Epi Wrecks - Epi

    28m Max
    15-30m Vis
    boat

    Site Overview

    Epi Wrecks is one of the signature dive sites of Epi Island (Central Vanuatu) in Vanuatu. Several small scuttled trading vessels now artificial reefs with dense fish life, frogfish and lionfish. The site reaches a maximum depth of about 28 m, with an average depth near 18 m, and its wreck, hull topography is draped in metal, coral. Marine life is the headline attraction, with Moray eel, Lionfish, Glassfish, Batfish, Soft coral gardens, Napoleon wrasse, Grey reef shark, Frogfish, Coral grouper regularly recorded here, drawn in by the mild currents and the rich coral-reef productivity of the region. Visibility typically ranges from 15 to 30 m, while water temperatures hold a consistent 24 to 29 C year-round, comfortable in a 3 to 5 mm wetsuit. Conditions suit intermediate divers, and with the right guide the site delivers both the drama of its wreck, hull and intimate encounters with the smaller residents. Local operators run regular trips from Lamenu, Epi, and the protected, low-tourism setting keeps coral cover dense and fish life abundant, making Epi Wrecks a genuine standout on any Vanuatu itinerary. Divers who time their visit to the dry season will find the most predictable conditions, though the site rewards repeat visits across the year.

    Dive Briefing

    "The dive at Epi Wrecks begins with a thorough operator briefing covering the site layout, expected marine life and emergency procedures, followed by a controlled entry and a short transfer from Lamenu, Epi. Descending toward the wreck, hull profile, divers are immediately surrounded by Moray eel, Lionfish, Glassfish, Batfish, Soft coral gardens, with the reef and structure revealing more detail the closer you look. The maximum depth reaches about 28 m while the average sits near 18 m, so a dive computer and disciplined gas planning keep the profile safe and comfortable. Currents are described as mild, and the guide chooses the entry time to make the most of slack or mild flow, using a reef hook or surface marker when needed. Neutral buoyancy protects the fragile coral and the group stays close to manage depth and any surge. The safety stop is completed in open water on a surface marker, and the boat follows the bubbles to collect divers at the exit point for a relaxed return to base. Epi Wrecks is best dived from April to November, Vanuatu's dry season, when settled seas and the clearest water make for the most reliable conditions. The mild current is at its calmest around slack tide, so most operators plan the descent to coincide with the turn of the tide. Water holds 24 to 29 C, and a 3 to 5 mm wetsuit is ample. Plan a slow profile to enjoy the 14 to 28 m range and to protect the fragile reef with good buoyancy. A torch helps reveal the smaller residents, and a surface marker buoy is recommended for the safety stop so the boat can track divers in the often gentle swell."

    Signature Marine Life

    Moray eel

    high

    Gymnothorax javanicus

    Best: January, February, March

    Lionfish

    high

    Pterois volitans

    Best: January, February, March

    Glassfish

    high

    Apogon spp.

    Best: January, February, March

    Batfish

    high

    Platax orbicularis

    Best: January, February, March

    Soft coral gardens

    high

    Alcyonacea

    Best: January, February, March

    Napoleon wrasse

    high

    Cheilinus undulatus

    Best: January, February, March

    Grey reef shark

    high

    Carcharhinus amblyrhynchos

    Best: January, February, March

    Frogfish

    high

    Antennarius spp.

    Best: January, February, March

    Coral grouper

    high

    Plectropomus spp.

    Best: January, February, March

    Safety & Hazards

    • Sharp metal edges and loose rigging on the hull
    • Risk of silting enclosed spaces with fin kicks
    • Potential boat traffic near the site
    • Entanglement hazard inside open structures
    • Depth and decompression risk on deep sections
    • Sun exposure on the surface interval
    Nearest Chamber
    Port Vila Recompression Chamber (Vila Central Hospital)
    120km away

    Traveler Notes

    Who is this for?

    Epi Wrecks is best suited to intermediate divers who want a memorable Epi Island (Central Vanuatu) experience shaped by its wreck, hull. It rewards divers who enjoy the site's character without needing a crowded setting, and the depth makes it ideal for a relaxed, well-planned dive. The key considerations are Large, complex wreck structure to navigate, Potential depth and decompression risk on deep sections, Loose rigging and sharp hull edges, Enclosed spaces require buoyancy control, so good buoyancy and planning are important. Wide-angle photographers will enjoy the reef scale and passing pelagics, while macro enthusiasts find plenty of small life among the coral and structure. It is a rewarding choice for travellers who appreciate healthy, protected reefs and a mix of calm and exhilarating conditions, and with the right guidance the site delivers a genuine sense of the remote Pacific that keeps divers returning to Vanuatu.

    wreck
    hull
    moray-eel
    lionfish
    glassfish

    For Non-Divers

    Exploring Lamenu, Epi and local villages, Vanuatu cultural tours and markets, hiking and island scenery

    Quick Stats

    Difficultyintermediate
    CertificationAdvanced Open Water
    Currentmild
    Water Temp24-29°C
    Best TimeApril - November

    Dive Logistics

    Operators
    • Lamen Bay Resort
    • Epi Dive
    Pricing Guide
    $80 - $140
    Per 2-tank boat dive

    Photography Info

    Recommended Gear
    60mm
    16-35mm

    Best for: macro, wide_angle

    Nearby Stay

    Lamenu Dive Resort

    Lamenu, Epi10km away

    Check Availability

    Vanuatu Beach Lodge

    Lamenu, Epi8km away

    Check Availability