MATIPO - Prony Bay

Matipo is a different kind of wreck dive, and we really like it for that. She’s not deep, just two meters, which means endless bottom time and brilliant natural light. The Matipo, a motor vessel, ran aground in Prony Bay back in ‘68, driven up onto the reef. Most of her hull and superstructure are still there, almost entirely out of the water, which is unusual for a wreck. This is an ideal site for snorkelers and freedivers, or even just for a surface interval with a difference. Underwater, you’re swimming through a skeletal frame. Schools of small fish dart in and out of the ribs, catching the shafts of sunlight. The coral growth on the submerged sections is robust, a vibrant contrast to the rusting metal. It’s a gentle exploration, very relaxed. We’d suggest going in the morning; the light then is spectacular, really highlighting the structure and the clear water. It's a spot that makes you think about the history, not just the marine life.

Location
Prony Bay, New Caledonia, Australasia
Coordinates
-22.822222, 166.779160
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
2m

Marine Protected Area: Parc du Grand Lagon Sud

Best Time to Dive in Prony Bay

The warmest water temperatures in Prony Bay occur in February, averaging 27.4°C. The coolest conditions are in August at 22.0°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 27.0°C
  • February: 27.4°C
  • March: 27.4°C
  • April: 26.5°C
  • May: 24.6°C
  • June: 23.4°C
  • July: 22.5°C
  • August: 22.0°C
  • September: 22.6°C
  • October: 23.6°C
  • November: 25.0°C
  • December: 26.5°C

Nearby Dive Sites in Prony Bay

Nearest Dive Centres to MATIPO

Marine Life in Prony Bay

Home to 84 recorded species including 62 reef fish, 7 sea cucumbers, 4 sharks & rays, 3 seagrass & algae, 3 whales & dolphins, 2 clams & mussels.

Notable Species

Recommended Packing List for MATIPO

Based on average water temperature of 24.9°C, currents 6 cm/s.

  • Shorty or Rashguard - warm 25°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