Great Basses Reef

Snorkel in the cool blue waters around Great & Little Basses Reefs.

The Great Basses and Little Basses are vast coral reefs, off the southern coast; in proximity to Yala. Discover the colourful treasures of the sea at this you explore this natural attraction off the island coast. The reefs have two of Asia’s best-known offshore lighthouses which were built by the British in the 1870’s, and the historical lighthouses still stand tall despite being hit by the 2004 tsunami. The Great and Little Basses reefs host some of the country’s best snorkelling/diving experiences; as the waters are teeming with a whole host of colourful fish and different species of coral, as well as harmless Grey sharks and sea turtles.

The reefs are a 45-minute boat ride from the coast of Kirinda beach- which Taru Villas Yala will organise- however we recommend this excursion be undertaken by PADI-licensed divers.

Nearest City

Tissamaharama

Key Highlight

Shipwrecks including a treasure ship that belonged to the Moghul Emperor Aurangzeb

Distance From

11.1 km

A Look into Great Basses Reef

The reefs are dangerous for ships, as shown by the many shipwrecks surrounding the reefs. Divers can explore how nature has reclaimed this vessel as its own.
Emperor Aurangszeb’s shipwreck was only discovered in 1961 by Sir Arthur C Clarke and his diving instructor.
It is one of the country’s top three diving locations and contains a plethora of coral species from black corals, whip corals and fan corals.