Explore New Britain
New Britain is one of the islands in the Island Region of Papua New Guinea. The luscious greenery on land is a beautiful contrast with the turquoise waters. These waters are filled with a wide array of different types of dives which are bound to excite divers of all interests. The warm, clear waters hold an assortment of wrecks, large volcanic seamounts, flourishing reefs and steep walls. The main towns from which diving is done include Rabaul and Kimbe, with other popular destinations being Witu Island and Fathers Reef. Divers can explore these waters either by booking with the local dive centres and dive resorts or by boarding a liveaboard.
Places to Explore
Rabaul
Rabaul is a township which lies on the east coast of the island of New Britain, which lies just east of the island of Papua New Guinea, in the Island Region. The harbour of Rabaul was formed by a large volcanic eruption and the area is still surrounded by a number of dormant volcanoes. The coasts are littered with WWII wrecks and relics which is what attracts many wreck enthusiasts to this area. Aside from wrecks, the nutrient rich, volcanic waters hold a large selection of flourishing reefs in pristine condition, with species ranging from colourful Soft Corals to graceful Eagle Rays. There are endless underwater wonders to revel in.
Kimbe
Kimbe is the largest settlement and capital city of the West New Britain province on New Britain Island in the Island Region. New Britain Island lies east of Papua New Guinea. Kimbe has been described as a biodiversity hotspot and alongside the flourishing marine life, there is also an exhilarating collection of WWII wrecks. The bay is encircled by volcanoes and volcanic seamounts. With only one dive centre in the bay, divers can either have those expert guides take them to the best dive sites, but there are also liveaboard options in this region.
Top New Britain Dive Sites
1. Susan’s Reef
Located in Kimbe, Susan’s Reef boasts vibrant and stunning marine life, featuring pink Sea Whips and the adorable Pygmy Seahorse. Suitable for all levels of scuba divers, it offers a breathtaking underwater landscape. The reef is constructed from two large seamounts, making it a popular and photogenic dive spot.
2. George Wreck
Situated in Rabaul, George Wreck is a Japanese minelayer from WWII lying between 12 and 60 meters deep. It accommodates divers of various skill levels, with abundant marine life inhabiting the wreck. This site offers an easy to advanced scuba diving experience, with historical significance and fascinating underwater exploration.
3. Tom, Dick, and Harry
These three interconnected reefs in Rabaul feature a 15-meter deep ridge, each offering unique marine life. The site is colorful and thrilling for scuba diving, suitable for all levels. It provides a diverse underwater experience in a single dive, showcasing a range of aquatic species and vibrant coral structures.
4. Reimers Wall
Reimers Wall in Rabaul is noted for its exhilarating wall dive that drops to 50 meters. It offers overhangs and small swim-throughs, making it suitable for advanced scuba divers. The site is home to a variety of marine species and provides a challenging yet rewarding dive experience.
5. Kimbe Bay (Freediving Possible)
Kimbe Bay is renowned for its rich biodiversity, offering both scuba diving and freediving opportunities. Suitable for easy to intermediate divers, it features protected marine zones with vibrant coral reefs and an abundance of fish species. The bay is ecologically significant and a must-visit for nature enthusiasts.
