Eagle Paradise - Loyalty Islands

Forget Gili T’s party vibe for a bit, the Japanese Shipwreck off Lombok is a completely different pace. We’ve always been drawn to how nature reclaims things, and this wreck is a prime example. It’s a small, wooden fishing vessel, nothing dramatic like a big freighter, but it’s absolutely smothered in coral, especially the staghorn, which forms these incredible, intricate structures. You’ll find it quite shallow, starting around 12m, but the real show is down at the stern, around 20m. That’s where you’ll spot our favourite anemone, home to a bustling family of orange and white clownfish – perfect for a photo if you can hold still. Look closer, and you’ll notice Shimada’s pygmygobies darting in and out of the cracks. The currents here can be a bit shifty, so we always suggest diving this one on a calm morning. The entry from the pebble beach can be a bit of a shuffle if there’s any swell, but it’s worth it.

Location
Loyalty Islands, New Caledonia, Australasia
Coordinates
-20.679500, 164.247600
Type
wreck

Marine Protected Area: L'Etang de Koumac State Forest Reserve

Best Time to Dive in Loyalty Islands

The warmest water temperatures in Loyalty Islands occur in February, averaging 28.2°C. The coolest conditions are in August at 24.2°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 27.9°C
  • February: 28.2°C
  • March: 28.1°C
  • April: 27.6°C
  • May: 26.3°C
  • June: 25.4°C
  • July: 24.7°C
  • August: 24.2°C
  • September: 24.5°C
  • October: 25.2°C
  • November: 26.4°C
  • December: 27.6°C

Nearby Dive Sites in Loyalty Islands

Nearest Dive Centres to Eagle Paradise

Marine Life in Loyalty Islands

Home to 129 recorded species including 93 reef fish, 11 sea cucumbers, 9 sea snails & nudibranchs, 4 clams & mussels, 4 sharks & rays, 3 whales & dolphins.

Notable Species

Recommended Packing List for Eagle Paradise

Based on average water temperature of 26.3°C, currents 10 cm/s.

  • Shorty or Rashguard - warm 26°C water needs minimal exposure protection
  • Mask - essential for every dive
  • Fins
  • BCD - buoyancy compensator
  • Regulator - your most safety-critical piece of gear
  • Dive Computer - tracks depth, time, and NDL
  • Surface Marker Buoy (SMB) - essential for boat pickups
  • Dive Torch - useful for crevices and colour at depth
  • Underwater Camera - capture your diving memories

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the typical depths for diving at the Eagle Paradise dive site?
The Eagle Paradise dive site offers a range of depths, making it versatile for divers. The site easily reaches depths of 12 meters, with a maximum depth recorded at 23 meters. This allows for varied dive profiles depending on your experience level and interests.
What kind of marine life and underwater features can divers expect to see at Eagle Paradise?
Divers at Eagle Paradise can explore the unique underwater features of the Pointe Rouge dike, which includes marked blocks. The site is home to a variety of Mediterranean fish species, such as vibrant wrasses, Salemas, and seabreams. Keep an eye out for these fascinating creatures during your dive, and explore more about marine life in our wildlife database.
How difficult is the Eagle Paradise dive site, and is it suitable for beginner divers?
While Eagle Paradise is generally rated as an intermediate dive site, it is also noted as being accessible for all levels, including beginners. Its design with marked blocks makes it suitable for swimming training and allows for easier navigation in certain areas. Divers can choose sections that match their comfort and experience level.
What is the best time of year to dive at Eagle Paradise for optimal conditions and marine life sightings?
The provided data does not specify the best time of year to dive at Eagle Paradise for optimal conditions or marine life sightings. We recommend checking local conditions closer to your planned dive dates for the most current information. For general guidance on dive seasons, you can visit our When to Dive page.
What diving certifications are required or recommended to dive at Eagle Paradise?
The available information does not specify particular diving certifications required or recommended for Eagle Paradise. Given its suitability for "all levels" and an "intermediate" rating, a basic open water certification would likely be sufficient for shallower areas, while advanced certifications might be beneficial for deeper sections. Always consult with local dive operators for specific requirements.
What are the typical current conditions and visibility like at the Eagle Paradise dive site?
Divers at Eagle Paradise can typically expect good visibility, averaging around 14 meters. The provided data does not include specific information regarding the typical current conditions at this site. It's always advisable to check with local dive centers for real-time current reports before your dive.