MV Geopeter Wreck

Silinog Island and its Shipwreck, The MV Geopeter

A 195 foot (60m)-long George Peter Lines passenger ship named MV Geopeter.  It had been intentionally grounded in 1987 with 350 passengers on board, after a large fire threatened the lives of all aboard during a voyage. Once passengers and crew had been safely evacuated, the boat was stripped of valuable equipment and towed out to deeper waters to be sent to its final resting place on a sandy bottom at approximately 200 feet (60m).

The port side anchor chain still points towards the beach where the ship burnt for five days before being hauled back out the sea. Most of the superstructure on the upper levels has collapsed—most likely due to the intense heat from the fire. No hazards seem to be present on the upper remaining decks, although one of the two conning towers shifted sometime between the last two visits, which does show potential dangers and deterioration of the vessel. The lowest decks, including the engine room, have yet to be explored. Teaming schools of Jacks and many other fish call the artificial reef home and the almost total lack of human visitors has preserved much of its originality. It’s not a difficult wreck to dive, aside from the depth and penetration, which require proper training. Great visibility, plenty of ambient light, and warm waters make it about as enjoyable as it can get. Coming across something of this size that was ‘forgotten’ does not happen often. It’s literally a diver’s dream come true.