Passe de Mato - Prony Bay

The SAS Pietermaritzburg, just off Miller’s Point, has a real story to tell, even if she's falling apart a bit these days. We love that she's so accessible; a short swim from shore and you're dropping onto a piece of naval history. What you’ll find is a destroyer escort, mostly intact, lying in about 20 metres of water. We always head for the bridge area first; it’s still recognisable, and you can picture the crew there. Visibility here averages around 7 metres, so it's not always super clear, but that adds to the atmospheric dive. We've seen some impressive schools of hottentot and strepies darting through the superstructure. Look closely at the plates and you'll spot scorpionfish tucked into crevices and common octopuses peering out. Our favourite is spotting the double-sash butterflyfish flitting around the old deck guns. This site is perfect for divers who appreciate a wreck with character, where the marine life has truly made itself at home amongst the deteriorating metal. Expect a relaxed dive, plenty of exploration, and a good chance to spot some interesting critters.

Location
Prony Bay, New Caledonia, Australasia
Coordinates
-22.686800, 166.646700
Type
wreck

Marine Protected Area: Réserve de la passe Amédée

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 Passe de Mato

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 Passe de Mato

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

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the maximum depth for diving at Passe de Mato?
The maximum recreational diving depth at Passe de Mato is 25 meters. While the plateau itself descends to 70 meters, the recommended maximum depth for divers at this specific site is 25m. This allows divers to explore the vibrant reef and wall features safely.
What kind of marine life and underwater features can divers expect to see at Passe de Mato?
Divers at Passe de Mato can expect to explore a diverse underwater landscape, featuring a plateau that starts at 10 meters and descends to 70 meters. You'll encounter the classic fauna of an outer drop-off, with an abundance of reef fish and fascinating macro life on the wall. Keep an eye out in the blue channel for exciting pelagic sightings.
How challenging is diving at Passe de Mato, and what level of experience is recommended?
Diving at Passe de Mato is considered to be of intermediate difficulty. The site is subject to swell, which can add to the challenge. Therefore, an intermediate level of diving experience is recommended to comfortably navigate the conditions and fully enjoy the dive.
What is the best time of year to dive Passe de Mato for optimal conditions and marine encounters?
The provided data does not specify the best time of year to dive Passe de Mato for optimal conditions or marine encounters. For general guidance on seasonal diving in New Caledonia, we recommend checking our When to Dive resource. Local dive operators can also provide up-to-date information on seasonal variations.
What scuba diving certifications are required to dive at Passe de Mato?
While specific certification requirements are not explicitly stated for Passe de Mato, its classification as an intermediate difficulty dive suggests that divers should hold at least an Advanced Open Water certification or equivalent. This ensures you have the necessary skills and experience to handle potential swells and deeper sections of the dive safely. Always confirm with your dive operator for their specific requirements.
What are the typical current and water conditions like at Passe de Mato?
Passe de Mato is known to be subject to swell, which can influence the overall diving conditions. Divers can generally expect good visibility, averaging around 19 meters, offering clear views of the abundant marine life. While specific current information is not detailed, conditions can vary, so always consult with your dive guide.