The Hafa Adai - Palau - Micronesia
The “Hafa Adai wreck”, this is non war wreck and sunk in purpose during the mid 70’s and now it’s habitat by schools of fish and colorful hard and soft coral, also we found the residence blue dragon nudibranch all over the place and many other type of reef fish.
NOTE: We make use of “Sketchfab” click HERE to view the navigation controls
Click on the 3D model below to move it around
All credits to the above Photogrammetry model goes out to Iho Melekhin
The story & the dive
The Hafa Adai (pronouns as Half-A-Day)
Despite being a very popular wreck among divers, very little is known about this wreck.
The wreck is often dived in bad weather when the outer reefs are inaccessible. The wreck is very sheltered and can be dived regardless of weather conditions.
The “Hafa Adai wreck”, this is non war wreck and sunk in purpose during the mid 70’s and now it’s habitat by schools of fish and colorful hard and soft coral, also we found the residence blue dragon nudibranch all over the place and many other type of reef fish.
It’s located just 1 mile (1.5 km) southwest of Malakal harbor.
This post-WWII cargo vessel sunk while at anchor and now rests upright at a depth of 30 meter on a sandy bottom.
The wreck’s location
(Click to enlarge)
(Click to enlarge)
The Dive
“Hafa Adai” is a Chamorro phrase, primarily used in Guam, that means “hello,” “hi,” or “how’s it going?
It’s a warm and welcoming greeting, wich is the same as diving the wreck…
Because the wreck is located in the inner reef, visibility is often not very good.
The visibility at this site varies between 5-10 m depending on the tides.
However, the lack of current makes it a comfortable dive.
The depth of the wreck also provides an opportunity for divers to extend their bottom time, allowing for a longer exploration of the wreck.
The Shipwreck at Malakal is home to a variety of marine life, including schools of fish, sea turtles, and the occasional reef shark. The wreck itself has also become a natural reef, with colorful corals and sponges adorning its hull.
As you descend down to the wreck, you’ll see the ship’s bow rising up from the sandy bottom. You can swim around the perimeter of the wreck to explore its various nooks and crannies.
You may even encounter the ship’s engine room and cargo hold.
Inside, you’ll find schools of fish, some of which have made their home in the ship’s rusted steel beams.
(Click to enlarge)
Some pictures of the wreck
(Click to enlarge)
Conclusion
Overall, the Shipwreck at Malakal is a must-visit dive site for those who love to explore underwater history and marine life.
With its easy accessibility and diverse marine environment, this site is perfect for divers of all levels.
So, on your visit to Palau make sure you’ll explore the Hafa Adai in Malakal!