MAMANUTHA PRINCESS - Kadavu & Great Astrolabe Reef

The Mamanutha Princess isn't your typical grand wreck, but we love it for its unusual story and the way it’s settled into the reef. This 12-meter motor vessel caught fire near Sheraton in '93, burned to the waterline, then drifted clear across to Malamala before finally sinking. You can really feel that history here. Today, she rests at a shallow 21 meters, fully colonised. It’s more of an artificial reef than a traditional wreck exploration, but the sheer volume of critters is what makes it. Expect to spend your dive poking around the burned-out hull, spotting octopus tucked into crevices and moray eels peeking from beneath plates of rusted steel. We’ve seen juvenile reef sharks circling the perimeter and schools of fusiliers using the structure for shelter. It’s an easy dive, perfect for photographers looking for macro subjects or anyone who enjoys a relaxed exploration of a well-established wreck. Go early to avoid other boats if you can; the light through the shallow water really brings out the colours of the corals growing on the hull.

Location
Kadavu & Great Astrolabe Reef, Fiji, Central & South Pacific
Coordinates
-17.760216, 177.312880
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
21m

Marine Protected Area: Great Astrolobe Lagoon

Nearby Dive Sites in Kadavu & Great Astrolabe Reef

Nearest Dive Centres to MAMANUTHA PRINCESS

Marine Life in Kadavu & Great Astrolabe Reef

Home to 385 recorded species including 289 reef fish, 66 hard corals, 12 sea snails & nudibranchs, 3 clams & mussels, 3 sharks & rays, 2 other.

Notable Species

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the typical depth range and average visibility at the 'MAMANUTHA PRINCESS' dive site?
The 'MAMANUTHA PRINCESS' dive site is located at a depth of 21 meters, making it an accessible wreck dive. While specific average visibility data for this site is not provided, divers can generally expect good conditions in the clear waters around Kadavu. This depth is well within the limits for advanced open water divers.
What specific marine life and unique underwater features can divers expect to encounter at the 'MAMANUTHA PRINCESS' dive site?
Divers visiting the 'MAMANUTHA PRINCESS' can explore the remains of a 12-meter motor vessel that sank on September 12, 1993, after catching fire and drifting. This non-dangerous wreck, located off Malamala Island, serves as the primary underwater feature. While specific marine life is not detailed, wrecks often attract a variety of reef fish and invertebrates, which you can learn more about in our wildlife database.
How would you rate the difficulty of diving the 'MAMANUTHA PRINCESS' for different experience levels, and is it suitable for beginners?
The 'MAMANUTHA PRINCESS' dive site is classified as having an intermediate difficulty level. This suggests it is suitable for certified divers with some prior experience rather than absolute beginners. Divers should possess good buoyancy control and comfort in open water conditions to fully enjoy this wreck dive.
What is the best time of year or season to dive the 'MAMANUTHA PRINCESS' for optimal conditions and marine encounters?
Specific information regarding the best time of year or season for optimal conditions and marine encounters at the 'MAMANUTHA PRINCESS' dive site is not provided in the available data. However, you can often find general guidance for diving in Fiji on our When to Dive page, which can help plan your trip to the Kadavu region.
Are there any particular diving certifications or minimum experience required to dive at the 'MAMANUTHA PRINCESS' site?
Given its intermediate difficulty rating, divers should ideally hold an Advanced Open Water certification or equivalent, and have some experience with wreck diving or similar conditions. While no specific certification is explicitly stated, comfort and proficiency at 21 meters depth are recommended for this Kadavu wreck. Always check with your local dive operator for their specific requirements.
What are the prevailing current conditions and typical water temperatures experienced at the 'MAMANUTHA PRINCESS' dive site?
Details regarding the prevailing current conditions and typical water temperatures at the 'MAMANUTHA PRINCESS' dive site are not available in the provided data. Divers planning a trip to Kadavu should consult local dive operators for the most up-to-date environmental information. Understanding these conditions is crucial for a safe and enjoyable dive experience.