Papuan Explorer wreck dive - Kadavu & Great Astrolabe Reef

The Papuan Explorer isn’t your typical deep, dark wreck. Sitting upright at 20 metres, this is a very accessible dive for anyone comfortable with a little penetration. We love how the relatively shallow depth means you get good ambient light filtering through the openings, highlighting the schools of glassfish that swirl inside the cargo holds. What makes this wreck special, for us, is the way the reef has simply enveloped it. Soft corals bloom from every surface, creating a vibrant, living sculpture. Look closely and you’ll spot crocodilefish camouflaged on the deck, and we've often seen reef sharks cruising past the stern. Our favourite part has to be the wheelhouse; it’s largely intact and feels like stepping back in time, even if it’s now home to several grumpy moray eels. This is a brilliant site for photographers, particularly on a sunny afternoon when the light really plays with the colours. We'd suggest getting there early if you want to avoid other boats, it can get a little busy.

Location

Kadavu & Great Astrolabe Reef, Fiji, Central & South Pacific

Coordinates

-17.294100, 178.213900

Type

wreck

Maximum Depth

20m

Difficulty

Intermediate

Marine Protected Area: Vanua Rakiraki, Ra