Chien Tong Wreck, St Eustatius: artificial reef dive

Descending onto the Chien Tong Wreck, you'll find the 52-meter former Taiwanese trawler lying perfectly upright on the seabed at a maximum depth of 24 metres. Sunk in 2004, the vessel has had ample time to transform into a thriving artificial reef, providing structure and shelter in an otherwise sandy environment. The upright position allows for clear orientation and easy exploration of the deck and superstructure, offering a full profile of the vessel as you approach from above.

The wreck acts as a magnet for larger pelagic species, often schooling around the mast and bridge structures. You'll frequently encounter bigeye trevally (Caranx sexfasciatus) circling the upper parts of the wreck, while barracudas (Sphyraena barracuda) patrol the perimeter. Southern stingrays (Hypanus americanus) are commonly found resting on the sand surrounding the hull, occasionally joined by spotted eagle rays (Aetobatus narinari) gracefully gliding overhead in the bluer water.

During the day, the wreck's many crevices and overhangs offer refuge to a variety of benthic creatures. Keep an eye out for red-leg partridge crabs (Percnon gibbesi) scuttling along the metal hull and sponge crabs (Dromia dormia) camouflaging themselves with attached sponges. Slipper lobsters (Scyllarides aequinoctialis) are also frequently spotted tucked into sheltered spots, especially as you explore the lower decks and internal structures.

The Chien Tong truly comes alive after sunset, making it a prime location for night dives. As light fades, the orange cup corals (Tubastraea coccinea) that encrust much of the wreck open their polyps, creating a striking spectacle of vibrant colour against the dark steel. This nightly transformation attracts a different cast of characters, providing a completely altered perspective of the site.

Night diving on the Chien Tong offers unique encounters with sleeping marine life. Giant green sea turtles (Chelonia mydas) and hawksbill turtles (Eretmochelys imbricata) often use the wreck as a nocturnal resting place, found tucked into larger openings or resting on deck. The transition from day to night reveals the intricate predatory and scavenging activities that define the nocturnal reef environment, a contrast to the daytime schooling behaviour.