Sarconphitum - Loyalty Islands

The Avenues is one of those places we keep coming back to in the Bay of Islands, especially if we’re looking for a relaxed dive with plenty to see. It’s not deep, topping out at around eight metres, but don't let that fool you. This is a network of shallow channels and guts, like an underwater maze carved into the reef. We love drifting through here, peering into every crevice. You’ll spot schools of butterfly perch and Indo-Pacific sergeants darting around, sometimes so thick they form a shimmering wall. Keep your eyes peeled for the smaller stuff, too. We’ve found frogfish tucked away in the sponges, and the little post horn squid are always a treat to watch as they zip about. Crayfish peek out from under ledges, and we’ve even come across the occasional bronze whaler shark cruising through the deeper sections of the channels. Visibility averages six metres, which, while not spectacular, feels right for this kind of intimate exploration – it keeps your focus close. It's a great spot for open water divers, or anyone who enjoys a slower pace and wants to spend time really looking.

Location
Loyalty Islands, New Caledonia, Australasia
Coordinates
-20.894000, 165.480200
Type
reef

Marine Protected Area: Povilla 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 Sarconphitum

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 Sarconphitum

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