Pinnacles - Rarotonga

Servemar X is a fantastic wreck, probably our favourite of the three tugboats sunk in the area. Dropped in 2002, it sits bolt upright, looking like it’s just forgotten to turn off its engines and steam away. We usually hit it between 20 and 25 metres, and while currents can pick up a bit, they tend to bring in the action. The wreck itself is incredibly intact. We love finning along the deck, peeking into the wheelhouse, and imagining the crew. Schools of glassy sweepers often pulse in and out of the darker openings, a shimmering curtain you can almost swim through. On the deck, we’ve spotted Pacific spotted scorpionfish hunkered down, blending perfectly with the encrusted metal. Look for southern Atlantic sharpnose-puffers bobbing around the superstructure. It’s not uncommon to see a remora gliding by, sometimes even a curious shark or a couple of turtles patrolling the perimeter. This site is great for anyone who appreciates a well-preserved wreck teeming with the life it now supports.

Location
Rarotonga, Cook Islands, Central & South Pacific
Coordinates
-21.256500, -159.824100
Type
wreck

Best Time to Dive in Rarotonga

The warmest water temperatures in Rarotonga occur in January, averaging 26.5°C. The coolest conditions are in December at 26.5°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 26.5°C (air: 24.8°C)
  • February: 26.5°C (air: 25.2°C)
  • March: 26.5°C (air: 25.5°C)
  • April: 26.5°C (air: 25.0°C)
  • May: 26.5°C (air: 24.2°C)
  • June: 26.5°C (air: 22.8°C)
  • July: 26.5°C (air: 22.3°C)
  • August: 26.5°C (air: 21.7°C)
  • September: 26.5°C (air: 22.0°C)
  • October: 26.5°C (air: 22.1°C)
  • November: 26.5°C (air: 22.6°C)
  • December: 26.5°C (air: 24.0°C)

Nearby Dive Sites in Rarotonga

Nearest Dive Centres to Pinnacles

Marine Life in Rarotonga

Home to 143 recorded species including 102 reef fish, 14 hard corals, 10 sea snails & nudibranchs, 7 sea cucumbers, 2 sea urchins, 2 starfish.

Notable Species

Recommended Packing List for Pinnacles

Based on average water temperature of 26.5°C.

  • 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 is the typical depth range for diving at Pinnacles?
The typical depth range for diving at Pinnacles is between 20m and 30m. Divers can expect to explore features down to a maximum depth of 26m.
What kind of marine life and underwater topography can divers expect to see at Pinnacles?
Divers at Pinnacles will encounter a sloping coral reef with a steep drop-off, featuring two large coral bommies, one of which has collapsed, sitting around 22 meters. The site is home to diverse marine life, including soldier fish, crayfish, lion fish, and moray eels. Keep an eye out for larger predators such as trevalleys and barracudas, which frequent this vibrant site.
What is the difficulty level for diving Pinnacles, and is it suitable for beginners?
Diving at Pinnacles is rated as intermediate difficulty. Due to its depth and potential conditions, it is generally not recommended for absolute beginners. Divers should have appropriate experience and certifications for intermediate-level dives.
When is the best time of year to dive Pinnacles for optimal conditions?
The provided data does not specify the best time of year to dive Pinnacles for optimal conditions. For general information on seasonal diving in the region, you might consult our When to Dive guide.
What scuba diving certifications are required or recommended for Pinnacles?
While specific certifications are not explicitly stated, given the intermediate difficulty and depths of 20m-30m, an Advanced Open Water Diver certification or equivalent experience is highly recommended for Pinnacles. This ensures divers are comfortable and proficient at these depths and conditions.
What are the typical current conditions and visibility like at Pinnacles dive site?
Divers at Pinnacles can expect excellent visibility, with an average of 30 meters. The provided data does not specify typical current conditions for this dive site.