CATHAY

Protected Area

Kekehe

Why dive here

With 292+ marine species recorded in the area - including barracuda, blacktip reef sharks, grey reef sharks, sperm whales and whitetip reef sharks - CATHAY offers some of Gizo & Western Province's richest wreck diving.

Marine lifeBarracuda, Blacktip Reef Sharks, Grey Reef Sharks, Sperm Whales and Whitetip Reef Sharks · 292+ species recorded

CharacterWreck dive

StandoutExceptional marine biodiversity

The Cathay is a peculiar one, and we love it for its sheer accessibility and the sense of history that comes with it. This old fishing boat sits practically on the surface, its bow breaking the water, a stark reminder of WWII’s reach even in these quiet corners. You can snorkel it, or even just stand on the deck at low tide, which is pretty wild. What makes it a standout for us is how marine life has absolutely taken over. We're talking thick growths of hard and soft corals, a genuine explosion of colour right there in the shallows. On a sunny day, the light plays through the structure, illuminating schools of tiny baitfish that shimmer like silver confetti. Keep an eye out for nudibranchs, particularly around the coral encrusted hull. It's a fantastic spot for macro photography, or just a lazy afternoon exploring without the need for heavy gear. If you're staying in Gizo, it's a quick boat ride, perfect for a relaxed dive or even a checkout dive to get back in the swing of things.