Toho V (Wreck) - Prony Bay

Barra Reef, just a short boat ride from Tofo, feels like swimming through an enormous, warm fish tank. At a maximum depth of 12 metres, it’s a brilliant choice for newer divers or those who just want to soak up the sun and spend some serious bottom time. We love the sheer density of reef fish here. Clouds of Blue and Gold Fusiliers often obscure the reef entirely, parting just enough for a Half-circled Angelfish or a curious Limespot Butterflyfish to peek through. While Barra is famous for its manta ray and whale shark encounters – and yes, we've had some cracking ones here – what often gets overlooked are the resident guitar sharks and leopard sharks lounging on the sand patches. Our favourite time to dive Barra is early morning, before the thermoclines kick in and the visibility is at its best, usually around 15-20 metres. Be mindful of the surge though; it can be quite active, making it a bit of a workout for photographers trying to get that perfect shot of a cruising Narrow-barred Spanish Mackerel. It’s a genuinely joyful dive, full of light and life.

Location
Prony Bay, New Caledonia, Australasia
Coordinates
-22.482800, 166.444600
Type
reef

Marine Protected Area: Parc du lagon sud: Ilot Amedee et Grand Recif Abore

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 Toho V (Wreck)

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 Toho V (Wreck)

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 of the Toho V Wreck dive site?
The Toho V Wreck dive site has a maximum depth of 20 meters. This artificial reef, created by a 55m longliner wreck, offers an exciting exploration for divers.
What kind of marine life and features can divers expect to see at the Toho V Wreck?
At the Toho V Wreck, divers can explore a 55-meter longliner wreck that serves as an artificial reef. The wreck is totally accessible, but we recommend bringing a lamp to explore its interior. You can expect to see a variety of marine life including jacks, loaches, cochers, and Pterois (lionfish), so be mindful of your surroundings.
Is the Toho V Wreck suitable for beginner scuba divers, or is it considered an advanced dive?
The Toho V Wreck is considered an intermediate dive site. While the wreck is accessible and visibility is generally very good, its depth and the nature of wreck diving suggest it's best suited for divers with some experience.
What is the best time of year or month to dive the Toho V Wreck for optimal conditions?
While the data doesn't specify a general "best time" for optimal conditions, divers visiting the Toho V Wreck in April can experience a unique phenomenon. During this month, the wreck is known to disappear under a cloud of alvins, offering a spectacular sight. For more general information on diving seasons, check our When to Dive guide.
What scuba diving certifications are required to dive the Toho V Wreck?
The specific scuba diving certifications required for the Toho V Wreck are not explicitly stated in the provided data. However, given its classification as an intermediate dive and the fact that it's a wreck, an Advanced Open Water certification or a Wreck Diver specialty would be highly beneficial for a safe and enjoyable exploration. Always consult with your local dive operator for their specific requirements.
What are the typical current and visibility conditions at the Toho V Wreck dive site?
Divers at the Toho V Wreck can typically expect very good visibility, with an average of 17 meters. Information regarding typical current conditions at this specific dive site is not provided in the available data.