La Grotte de Arue - Moorea & Tahiti

The MV Shakem, sitting upright at 29 meters, is a fantastic dive for those who appreciate a good wreck with a bit of history. We love how this cargo vessel, which sank in 2001 while overloaded with cement for a resort expansion, has become such a thriving artificial reef. Descending, you’ll see the enormous concrete pallets still stacked in the holds, a constant reminder of its demise. This structure creates countless hiding spots; we often spot mottled jawfish peeking out, and the glassy sweepers schooling inside are a gorgeous sight. For certified wreck divers, the penetration options are plentiful and very atmospheric, with light shafts cutting through the gloom. On the outside, the wreck is completely encrusted, especially around the stern, where the black coral provides homes for various critters. Keep an eye out for the resident parrotfish nibbling at the growth and the snappers patrolling the deck. This is a solid dive for anyone comfortable at depth, offering both intriguing exploration and abundant marine life.

Location
Moorea & Tahiti, French Polynesia, Central & South Pacific
Coordinates
-17.515600, -149.532100
Type
wreck

Marine Protected Area: Pointe Vénus

Best Time to Dive in Moorea & Tahiti

The warmest water temperatures in Moorea & Tahiti occur in April, averaging 29.0°C. The coolest conditions are in September at 26.3°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 28.2°C
  • February: 28.5°C
  • March: 28.9°C
  • April: 29.0°C
  • May: 28.4°C
  • June: 27.6°C
  • July: 26.7°C
  • August: 26.4°C
  • September: 26.3°C
  • October: 26.6°C
  • November: 27.2°C
  • December: 27.8°C

Nearby Dive Sites in Moorea & Tahiti

Nearest Dive Centres to La Grotte de Arue

Marine Life in Moorea & Tahiti

Home to 141 recorded species including 116 reef fish, 7 hard corals, 6 sea snails & nudibranchs, 5 sea cucumbers, 2 whales & dolphins, 1 clams & mussels.

Notable Species

Recommended Packing List for La Grotte de Arue

Based on average water temperature of 27.6°C, currents 8 cm/s.

  • Shorty or Rashguard - warm 28°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 La Grotte de Arue, and how deep is the cave itself?
The maximum depth for diving at La Grotte de Arue is 27 meters. The small cave itself begins at 27 meters and extends to a depth of 30 meters, offering a unique exploration opportunity within the reef.
What kind of marine life and underwater formations can divers expect to see at La Grotte de Arue?
Divers exploring La Grotte de Arue can expect to encounter a fascinating small cave formation situated on the outer edge of a coral reef. This site is a true paradise for macro photography enthusiasts, as the cave provides refuge for numerous shrimp and various fish species.
What is the difficulty level of the La Grotte de Arue dive site, and is it suitable for beginner divers?
The La Grotte de Arue dive site is rated as intermediate difficulty. Given this rating and the cave's depth, it is generally not suitable for beginner divers who typically require easier conditions. Divers should possess appropriate experience and certification for intermediate dives.
What are the recommended diving certifications needed to explore La Grotte de Arue, particularly the deeper sections or the cave?
To explore La Grotte de Arue, particularly its deeper sections and the cave that extends to 30 meters, divers should hold certifications appropriate for intermediate dives. An Advanced Open Water Diver certification or equivalent is generally recommended to safely navigate depths up to 30 meters and experience cave environments.
What are the typical current and visibility conditions at La Grotte de Arue?
Divers visiting La Grotte de Arue can typically expect excellent visibility, averaging around 21 meters. The provided data does not specify typical current conditions for this site.
When is the best time of year to dive at La Grotte de Arue for optimal conditions and marine life encounters?
The provided data for La Grotte de Arue does not specify the best time of year for optimal diving conditions or marine life encounters. For general information on seasonal diving, you might consult our When to Dive guide.