Tizard Bank

Tizard Bank is an atoll in the Spratly Islands featuring extensive coral formations that rise steeply from the surrounding seafloor. A central lagoon sits within the structure, surrounded by numerous shallow areas and underwater obstacles that create complex navigation challenges.

British oceanographer Thomas Henry Tizard surveyed and mapped this marine formation in the 1860s while aboard the HMS Rifleman. His explorations provided the first detailed knowledge of the area and gave it its lasting name.

Chinese fishermen from Hainan established the first semi-permanent settlements on Itu Aba Island, located on the northwestern edge of the bank.

Navigation here demands careful attention because of numerous shallow areas and underwater obstacles throughout the formation. Anyone planning to visit or operate in this area should work with specialists familiar with local marine conditions.

Multiple nations maintain military installations across different sections of the bank, with Vietnam occupying Namyit Island and Taiwan controlling Itu Aba Island.