Vietnam Proposes Scuttling Cargo Ship to Create Con Dao’s First Premium Dive Site

A Vietnamese tourism operator has proposed sinking a decommissioned cargo ship off Con Dao to create a high-end scuba diving site, in a move designed to draw international visitors and support marine conservation, according to a report from Tuoi Tre News.

The plan, submitted by Amadive Tourism Services Co. Ltd. to the Ho Chi Minh City Department of Tourism, seeks approval to scuttle the Sheng Li, a 52-metre refrigerated cargo vessel built in 2002. The ship, which suffered severe damage and is no longer operational, is currently moored at a storm shelter near the island.

If approved, the vessel would be cleaned, stripped of pollutants, and sunk in accordance with international safety and environmental standards. Amadive says the project would create a unique artificial reef, providing new habitats for marine life, supporting coral regeneration, and easing visitor pressure on natural reefs suffering from bleaching linked to 2024’s El Niño conditions.

Artificial reefs, particularly those created from retired vessels, have a proven track record in regions such as Thailand and Malaysia, where scuttled ships have become thriving marine habitats and popular diving attractions. They can accelerate coral growth, increase fish populations, and offer alternative dive sites that relieve strain on fragile ecosystems.

However, experts caution that such projects are not without risks. If preparation is inadequate, residual pollutants like fuel or paint can harm marine life. Placement must also be carefully planned to avoid damaging existing habitats or disrupting local currents. In some cases, poorly sited artificial reefs have failed to attract significant marine colonisation or have even become hazards for navigation.

Amadive’s proposal also highlights the potential economic benefits, targeting high-spending dive tourists and generating new jobs for the local community. The project aligns with Con Dao’s ambitions to grow its eco-tourism profile following its administrative integration into Ho Chi Minh City earlier this year.

The tourism department has expressed support for the initiative in principle, but officials will consult with other agencies before making a final recommendation to the city’s People’s Committee.

If given the green light, the Sheng Li could become one of Vietnam’s most notable artificial reef projects, and a new focal point for divers exploring the biodiverse waters of Con Dao.