SS President Coolidge Wreck: Diving Vanuatu's Legendary WWII Liner

Dropping onto the SS President Coolidge, you immediately sense the scale of this leviathan. The dive typically begins at the bow, which lies at a depth of 25 metres, offering an expansive introduction to the ship's forward structure. Even without penetration, the sheer size of the bow section is impressive, providing a clear vantage point to appreciate the warship's formidable presence against the blue, its lines still remarkably preserved despite decades underwater.

As you move along the wreck, the promenade deck becomes accessible at 33 metres, where the light begins to soften, drawing you deeper into the ship's history. This area allows divers to swim above what was once a bustling passenger space, now a quiet, coral-encrusted corridor. It's a natural starting point for those looking to explore the more open sections of the Coolidge without entering confined overhead environments.

Beyond these introductory sections, the Coolidge opens up to a labyrinth of options for the experienced diver. The cargo holds offer a glimpse into the ship's operational past, while the engine room, with its massive machinery, provides an insight into the power that once propelled this vessel. Other significant areas include the medical supplies hold, still containing remnants of its wartime purpose, and the ship's swimming pool, a surreal sight now occupied by marine life.

One of the most sought-after experiences on the Coolidge is visiting 'The Lady,' a ceramic figure still intact within one of the holds. This iconic artifact is a poignant reminder of the luxury liner's past life, resting peacefully amidst the wreckage. Navigating to 'The Lady' requires careful planning and appropriate training, rewarding divers with a unique encounter with history preserved at depth.

For divers certified to venture deeper, the stern of the SS President Coolidge awaits at 60 metres. This section holds the ship's letters, still legible on the hull, alongside the massive propeller and rudder. Reaching this depth provides a comprehensive understanding of the ship's complete profile and offers a contrasting perspective to the shallower bow, revealing the full extent of its dive into the ocean floor.