dive
The numerous passages and islands between Kavieng and New Hanover make for some of the most pristine, diverse and exciting diving in Papua New Guinea.
diving in new ireland
Divers visiting Kavieng will not only experience the thrill of close encounters with big pelagic fish in the current-swept passages, but can also enjoy the relaxing feeling of drifting along plunging walls decorated with colourful corals and fans, explore World War II wrecks as well as discover a multitude of small critters on inshore muck dives. There is even the opportunity to dive or snorkel one of the many fresh water sinkholes or caves on the New Ireland mainland (with Scuba Ventures-Kavieng).
On the Southwest coast (Bismarck Sea) the reefs drop precipitously, forming dramatic drop offs and offering exciting dives at passage entrances. Currents can be strong and good timing is necessary to catch the incoming tides when all the fish are feeding and soft corals on their best display.
The Northern and North Eastern coasts (Pacific) have gradually sloping seabeds and extensive systems of offshore reefs. Diving on the Pacific side is particularly good from August to October when the sea is calm, winds offshore and the visibility often exceeds 40m.
Image: Dorian Borcherds of Scuba Ventures
Image of Deep Pete by Don Silcock (indopacificimages.com)
For the wreck enthusiasts there are more known World War II aircraft wrecks in and around Kavieng, than anywhere else in Papua New Guinea. Seaplanes are scattered in and around Kavieng Harbour, as well as American War Plane (P28) further afield.
Interesting muck diving can also be found within the Kavieng Harbour and around the inshore islands.
Diving is enjoyed all year round and is suitable for all experience levels and interests. The water temperature is always warm rarely drops below 28°C. Rainfall in Kavieng is fairly constant with Dec/Jan/Feb being marginally the wettest period. April to July and September to November have proven to provide good all round weather and dive conditions.
And the reefs are not only for divers, excellent visibility and an abundance of fish make them perfect for snorkelling as well. Snorkellers are welcome to join dive boats, or snorkelling trips can be arranged through many of the hotels and guesthouses out of Kavieng.
Visit our YouTube playlist on Diving in New Ireland
where to stay
Given their location on the water within close proximity to many of the dive sites around Kavieng, the two resorts below are very popular with divers.
There are however many many more places to stay. For all other accommodation facilities, visit our Places to Stay page.
nusa island retreat
lissenung island resort
dive operators
We have two fully accredited PADI land-based Dive Operators in New Ireland. They also offer Resort Dives and Introductory Dive courses for beginners, and Advanced Open Water, Rescue, Divemaster and a number of other Specialty courses.
Both are members of the Papua New Guinea Divers Association
