In 2019, I had the privilege of taking 18 students to Vanuatu to dive into the historical wreck known as the SS President Coolidge.

Located in Espiritu Santo, SS President Coolidge, more commonly known as “The Coolidge”, is one of the most popular wrecks in the world. It is the largest and most accessible wreck as well. The wreck is almost 200 metres long and 25 metres wide, with roughly 50 different dive sites to explore. The ship was originally a luxury steamer with room for over 1,000 people. Although it was not a warship, it was sent into service as a troop carrier. During this time it held 5,342 troops. In October 1942 it was sunk by two US mines. Some famous artifacts within the wreck are the “Lady and the Unicorn”, a porcelain statue. It is customary that all divers kiss the lady while diving the SS President Coolidge! This was incredible to dive, and whilst there we ran multiple courses for the participants such as deep, wreck, and advanced courses.

We also dived Million Dollar Point. Espiritu Santo island was established as a US military supply base, and after the end of WWII, the US remained with a huge amount of equipment that they couldn't transport back. It was then deemed appropriate to just... dump it all in the sea. This, unsurprisingly, wreaked havoc, and not only destroyed millions of dollars worth of equipment but was very harmful to the surrounding environment. The people of Vanuatu were quick to try to salvage and recover what they could, but there is a lot leftover. Diving Million Dollar Point, we were able to see tanks, trucks, weapons, and of course, coke bottles.

I am planning to dive the SS President Coolidge once again now that borders have reopened, and I am thrilled to be visiting Vanuatu again soon!