Based in Sri Lanka, Master Divers stands as the longest-serving commercial diving and marine engineering organization in the country, playing a pivotal role in the maritime logistics of the Indian Ocean. Since its inception in 1978, the company has grown under the guidance of founder Ariyaseela Wickramanayake to become a dominant force in underwater services and vessel support. Originally established to address a local gap in professional diving capabilities, the firm expanded its operational scope over several decades, navigating through periods of national difficulty to ensure the continuity of port operations. It gained historical significance by clearing sunken vessels and removing wrecks that threatened the safety of vital shipping channels, thereby securing access to the nation’s harbors during critical times.
The company operates extensively across all major Sri Lankan ports, including Colombo, Galle, Trincomalee, and Hambantota. This island-wide network facilitates immediate mobilization for international vessels transiting the busy east-west shipping routes. The core of its maritime identity lies in its ability to perform complex underwater repairs and maintenance while ships remain afloat. Technical teams execute hull cleaning, propeller polishing, and underwater welding, services that allow shipowners to maintain hydrodynamic efficiency and adhere to tight schedules without the costly interruption of entering a dry dock.
Beyond routine maintenance, Master Divers is a key player in heavy marine engineering and salvage. The organization owns and operates a substantial fleet of harbor tugs, workboats, and flat-top barges equipped with heavy-lifting gear. This asset base supports a wide array of offshore activities, from ocean towage and emergency wreck removal to the maintenance of Single Point Moorings and underwater pipelines. The company also assists in civil engineering projects, such as harbor construction and quay wall repairs, providing the necessary subsea expertise to port authorities and infrastructure developers. By combining deep-sea diving proficiency with heavy salvage capabilities, Master Divers functions as a primary contingency provider for maritime casualties in the region, ensuring navigational safety and providing essential technical support for the global shipping industry.
