Our neighbour to the North, Papua New Guinea, offers world class dive experiences in destinations that are not on the common tourist trail.  This is an off the beaten track experience that will allow divers to really recharge.  Our two favourite dive destinations in PNG are Kimbe Bay and Kavieng. Located in the Coral Triangle, the diving in PNG is all about marine biodiversity and spectacular reef and wall systems.  

At Kimbe Bay divers will be able to view a variety of corals – huge fans, sponges and sea whips in particular.  There is also a Japanese Zero aircraft wreck here, a spectacular reminder of how the Second World War impacted the area.  

At Kavieng, divers will experience the breathtaking marine life that the region is known for, plus one of the best walls we have ever seen, and maybe a few sharks for good measure.  We will always remember Kavieng for the most amazing chilli mud crab.

When to go

The best time to dive Kimbe Bay and Kavieng is really September through to December, however May and June are also good as a general rule. 

How to get there

 Air Niugini fly to Port Moresby from Brisbane and Cairns a few times a week. From there you fly on to Hoskins for Kimbe Bay or Kavieng.  You may need to stay overnight in Port Moresby in one or the other direction depending on flight schedules.

Where to stay

If you want to dive Kimbe Bay the place to stay is Walindi Plantation Resort.  It is exactly as it sounds, an old plantation that has been converted into a resort with an onsite dive facility.  The rooms here are comfortable, and they have recently had a pool renovation making it the perfect place to unwind!  For Kavieng we recommend Nusa Island Retreat, where you can dive with Scubaventures.  This is some off the beaten track accommodation, on stilts overlooking the water, with a super chilled restaurant area.

Highlights

We love the wall diving in Kavieng, as well as that delicious chilli mud crab!  We also love the variety of different corals at Kimbe Bay, and the hot volcanic river with its anti-ageing mud supply (we’re still waiting to see if it works).