Port Moresby
Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea, offers a compelling gateway to the unparalleled biodiversity of the Coral Triangle. Its underwater realm is defined by a dramatic contrast between hauntingly beautiful WWII wrecks and exceptionally vibrant coral reefs. Divers can explore sunken ships and aircraft that now serve as artificial reefs teeming with life, then move to pristine bommies and walls decorated with a kaleidoscope of hard and soft corals. This unique blend of history and natural wonder makes it a truly distinctive diving destination.
Diving conditions are favorable year-round, with warm tropical water temperatures consistently hovering between 26-29°C (79-84°F). Visibility is generally excellent, often exceeding 20 meters, particularly during the drier months. Port Moresby appeals to a wide range of divers, from wreck enthusiasts eager to delve into history to macro photographers searching for rare critters like pygmy seahorses. The accessibility from the capital city combined with world-class diving makes it a must-visit location for any serious underwater explorer.
Top Sites
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the most popular dive site in Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea?
The wreck of the MV Pacific Gas is arguably the most popular dive site in Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea. This 60-meter coastal freighter was intentionally sunk in 1986 and now sits perfectly upright on the seabed. Its popularity stems from its accessibility, intact structure allowing for easy exploration, and the dense schools of fish that shelter within its holds. It's a fantastic introduction to the area's wreck diving scene.
What are the good and less popular dive sites in Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea?
Well-known sites in Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea, include the vibrant Suzies Bommie, famous for its rich coral and fish life, and The End of the Road reef. For a less-common experience, the outer reefs offer pristine conditions with fewer divers. Many local operators also have their own protected 'hidden gems'—smaller wrecks or reef patches they visit less frequently, ensuring a more exclusive and exploratory feel for divers looking for something off the beaten path.
What water temperature is it like throughout the year diving in Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea?
The water temperature when diving in Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea, is warm and tropical year-round. It typically ranges from 26°C (79°F) in the slightly cooler dry season (July-August) to 29°C (84°F) during the warmer wet season (January-March). This consistency means there is no bad time to dive regarding water temperature, making it comfortable for divers throughout the year.
When is the best time to visit Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea?
The best time to visit Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea, for diving is during the dry season, from May to November. This period generally offers calmer seas, less rainfall, and consistently excellent underwater visibility. While diving is possible year-round, the wet season (December to April) can bring heavier rains and winds, which may occasionally affect surface conditions and reduce visibility, particularly on sites closer to shore.
What's the visibility like during the dive season in Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea?
Underwater visibility in Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea, is typically very good, ranging from 15 to 30 meters (50-100 feet). During the prime dive season from May to November, visibility often stays at the higher end of this range. It can be temporarily reduced after heavy rainfall, especially during the wet season (December-April), but the offshore reefs and deeper wrecks are generally less affected and maintain good clarity year-round.
Are there any seasonal migrations or special events (e.g., manta rays, whale sharks) in Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea?
Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea, is not known for major, predictable migrations like whale sharks. However, the reefs are bustling with activity year-round. Encounters with various reef sharks (whitetip, blacktip, grey reef), turtles, and large schools of barracuda and trevally are common. The main event is the constant, incredible biodiversity of the Coral Triangle, offering rich critter-hunting and vibrant reef scenes on every single dive, any time of year.
What marine life can I expect to see in Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea?
The marine life in Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea, is incredibly diverse. Expect to see vibrant coral gardens, large sea fans, and sponges. The reefs are home to countless fish species like anemonefish, butterflyfish, and surgeonfish. Macro enthusiasts can find nudibranchs, ghost pipefish, and even pygmy seahorses. Larger encounters include sea turtles, reef sharks, eagle rays, and huge schools of barracuda and jacks, especially around the local wrecks and bommies.
What thickness wetsuit should I wear in Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea?
For the warm waters of Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea, a 3mm wetsuit, either a shorty or a full suit, is generally sufficient for most divers. Some may even be comfortable in just a rash guard and shorts during the warmest months. A full suit is recommended for thermal comfort on multiple dives and for protection against scrapes on wrecks or reefs. The choice ultimately depends on your personal cold tolerance.
How do I get to Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea?
To get to Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea, you fly into Jacksons International Airport (POM). It is the country's main international gateway with direct flights from cities like Brisbane, Sydney, Singapore, and Manila. From the airport, your pre-booked dive operator will typically arrange for transfers to your accommodation and the dive marina. All dive operations are based out of the city, making logistics relatively straightforward once you arrive.
Should I book a liveaboard or stay on shore in Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea?
Diving in Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea, is almost exclusively shore-based, operating via day boats from local marinas. There are no regular liveaboards that focus solely on this area. Liveaboards in PNG typically depart from other regions like Milne Bay or Kimbe Bay to explore more remote and distant archipelagos. Therefore, staying in a hotel or resort in Port Moresby and diving with a land-based operator is the standard and recommended option.