Pasikuda - Catalina Y-78 & RFA SS Athelstane

Athelstane**

Two wrecks from the same war. Two mornings in the same calm bay.

The Catalina PBY-5A flying boat (42 metres) was lost on 9 December 1943 after port engine failure during an emergency sea landing in severe rain and strong winds. All 11 crew survived. Wing sections, twin engine mounts, retractable main wheels, and twin propellers are clearly identifiable on a sandy seabed. The RFA SS Athelstane (37 to 43 metres) was sunk by Japanese bombs on the same day as HMS Hermes --- 9 April 1942 --- in the same air raid. All crew survived. Three distinct hull sections: bow at 37m with intact anchors and bow winch, bridge standing upright, stern at 43m with stern gun intact and propeller visible. Limited penetration into inner compartments is possible for qualified technical divers. Between dives: the calm turquoise bay at Pasikuda for snorkelling and rest. Two nights.

Experiences at this stop

Catalina PBY-5A Y-78 --- 42 metres (technical)

The wings, twin radial engine mounts, retractable main wheels, and twin propellers are all identifiable on the sandy seabed. The site confirms the scale and build of an amphibious patrol bomber that came down at sea in the night. Schools of fusiliers, snappers, and groupers have made the structure their home.

RFA SS Athelstane --- 37 to 43 metres (technical)

Three well-preserved sections across a gentle slope. The bridge stands upright despite the bomb damage --- unusual for a wreck of this age. The stern-mounted deck gun is intact, confirming the ship's armed support role. The hull supports soft and hard corals, rays, groupers, and lion fish. It is a British War Grave --- respectful diving conduct is required at all times.

Pasikuda bay --- snorkelling and rest

The shallow turquoise lagoon at Pasikuda between dive sessions. The bay is one of the calmest on the east coast --- protected by a natural reef --- with warm, clear water and a sandy bottom accessible to non-swimmers and snorkellers at any level.