Explore Guadalcanal Island
Guadalcanal is the largest island of the Solomon Islands and borders the Iron Bottom Sound, a body of water where dozens of ships and planes fought and eventually sunk during World War II. The Solomon Islands capital, Honiara, is the gateway to the Iron Bottom Sound with dive centres and dive resorts offering trips into the historically important ship graveyard.
In 1942, American and Japanese forces were clashing daily which led to fighter planes, tanks, cargo ships and destroyers becoming part of the underwater world. Today, the Iron Bottom Sound is an underwater museum allowing history-buffs to sink beneath the surface to discover the wrecks and artefacts that lie on the seabed. While some of the wrecks lie just metres from the beach, many of the wrecks are too deep to be visited by recreational divers, offering a playground for technical divers as well.
Honiara’s dive centre is licensed to operate a range of dive courses from discovering scuba for the very first time to technical courses that will allow you to head deeper into the Sound.
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Diving in Guadalcanal Island
Guadalcanal Island, a gem in the Solomon Islands, offers a divers' paradise with its rich blend of history and natural beauty. Notable wreck dives include the "Bonegi Beach" sites, where the wrecks of Japanese transport ships from World War II provide fascinating exploration opportunities, teeming with marine life. These shore-accessible sites are perfect for divers seeking a blend of historical intrigue and vibrant aquatic ecosystems.
For those interested in liveaboard diving, the "Iron Bottom Sound" offers deeper exploration of shipwrecks, while "Mbonege Beach" and its surrounding reefs deliver splendid coral gardens and diverse marine life. Unique experiences such as night dives reveal nocturnal creatures and captivating bioluminescence. Whether opting for shore-based or liveaboard adventures, divers will find a perfect mix of convenience and underwater thrills on Guadalcanal Island.
The best Months to Dive in Guadalcanal Island
Guadalcanal Island offers excellent diving conditions year-round, making it a prime destination for underwater enthusiasts. Water temperatures remain warm throughout the year, typically ranging from 27°C–30°C/81°F–86°F, providing comfortable diving conditions. Visibility is generally around 15 to 30 meters/49 to 98 feet, although this can vary slightly with seasonal changes and weather conditions.
Diving is possible all year on Guadalcanal, but divers should be aware of the rainy season from December to April, which can affect visibility and water currents. During these months, increased rainfall might reduce visibility and enhance currents, requiring divers to exercise caution. The rest of the year, from May to November, conditions are generally more stable, with calmer waters and clearer skies, making it a preferred time for diving.
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