Unicorn Wreck

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Marine life at Unicorn Wreck...

This site is for the Tech Divers! Resting offshore to the west of Koh Tao, the Unicorn Wreck is one of the island’s deeper and more dramatic dive sites. The deck begins at around 30 meters, with the seabed sitting closer to 34–36 meters. This depth places it firmly in advanced recreational range, delivering a true deep-wreck experience with a distinct blue-water descent and a striking silhouette emerging from below.

Currents & Conditions
Due to its offshore position and depth, the Unicorn can experience mild to moderate currents, and conditions are typically best when seas are calm. Visibility is limited, which is where the name comes from, you are more likely to see a Unicorn than the ship! Water temperatures remain warm at 27–30°C near the surface, though thermoclines are common at depth and can create a noticeable temperature shift.

Underwater Landscape & Marine Life
The Unicorn is a large steel cargo vessel lying upright on the seabed, its structure intact enough to clearly recognise the bow, deck, and superstructure. Over time, marine growth has begun to claim the hull, with corals and sponges attaching to railings and surfaces. Schools of fusiliers and snapper hover above the wreck, while barracuda and trevally often patrol the blue just off the structure. Groupers and moray eels shelter in darker recesses, and lionfish are frequently spotted along the deck edges. The sandy seabed surrounding the wreck can host blue-spotted stingrays, while passing pelagics occasionally appear in the distance. The depth, size, and atmosphere give the Unicorn a distinctly adventurous feel — this is Koh Tao’s most serious wreck dive.

Skill Level & Certification
Strictly for Advanced Open Water divers at a minimum due to depth, with deep specialty training strongly recommended to maximise bottom time safely. Good air consumption, buoyancy control, and depth awareness are essential. This site is also popular for technical training when conditions allow.

Access & Logistics
The Unicorn Wreck is typically scheduled only when conditions are favourable due to its offshore location and depth. We meet at 7:20am and depart from Sairee Beach via our shuttle boats to our main dive vessel. Travel time is longer than nearshore sites, adding to the expedition feel of the dive. It is often paired with a shallower second site to create a balanced dive plan. Expect to return around 12:30pm — deeper, more demanding, and undeniably one of Koh Tao’s most iconic wreck experiences.