Maravagi F4F Wildcat (Wreck) - Iron Bottom Sound

The Persia is a newer wreck, only going down in 2018, but she’s already a fantastic dive. We think she makes a brilliant second dive after one of the deeper wrecks, especially if you want to explore something a bit more intact. We've always found her sitting upright and proud on the seabed, usually at about 33 meters, making for a nice, comfortable depth. You can actually poke around inside the cargo holds, where you'll still spot remnants of her last shipment – sweets and clothing. It’s like a time capsule, a real glimpse into a working vessel. Visibility here averages around 15 meters, which we find is plenty to appreciate her 30-meter length. Because she's a bit further out, about 6.5 miles from Grenada, and exposed to some decent currents, you'll see more of the ocean's regular inhabitants. Lionfish are common, unfortunately, but we've seen plenty of nurse sharks cruising around the deck, likely drawn in by the easy prey. On a good day, you might even spot a sleeping turtle tucked into the superstructure. She's a great choice for advanced divers looking for a less broken-up wreck and a chance to see some healthy pelagic action.

Location
Iron Bottom Sound, Solomon Islands, Central & South Pacific
Coordinates
-8.956500, 160.063500
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
15-30m

Marine Protected Area: Maravaghi

Best Time to Dive in Iron Bottom Sound

The warmest water temperatures in Iron Bottom Sound occur in January, averaging 30.5°C. The coolest conditions are in December at 30.5°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 30.5°C (air: 26.9°C)
  • February: 30.5°C (air: 26.7°C)
  • March: 30.5°C (air: 26.7°C)
  • April: 30.5°C (air: 26.8°C)
  • May: 30.5°C (air: 26.9°C)
  • June: 30.5°C (air: 26.5°C)
  • July: 30.5°C (air: 26.5°C)
  • August: 30.5°C (air: 26.3°C)
  • September: 30.5°C (air: 26.5°C)
  • October: 30.5°C (air: 26.7°C)
  • November: 30.5°C (air: 26.7°C)
  • December: 30.5°C (air: 26.9°C)

Nearby Dive Sites in Iron Bottom Sound

Nearest Dive Centres to Maravagi F4F Wildcat (Wreck)

Marine Life in Iron Bottom Sound

Home to 415 recorded species including 320 reef fish, 29 hard corals, 18 sea snails & nudibranchs, 16 sea cucumbers, 7 seagrass & algae, 5 clams & mussels.

Notable Species

Recommended Packing List for Maravagi F4F Wildcat (Wreck)

Based on average water temperature of 30.5°C.

  • Shorty or Rashguard - warm 30°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 depth of the Maravagi F4F Wildcat (Wreck) dive site?
The Maravagi F4F Wildcat wreck lies intact at 38 meters, providing an exciting deep wreck diving experience. While the wreck itself is at 38m, the overall dive site is noted to have a maximum depth of 19 meters, likely referring to the nearby reef where the dive concludes. This offers a dynamic dive profile, starting deep on the wreck and ascending along the reef.
What marine life and historical features can divers expect to see at the Maravagi F4F Wildcat (Wreck)?
Divers exploring the Maravagi F4F Wildcat wreck can expect to encounter a historically significant Grummen F4F Wildcat aircraft, discovered in 2018, lying inverted and intact. This fascinating wreck and the nearby reef are teeming with marine life, including abundant soft and hard corals of all colors. You'll also find reef fishes of all descriptions, making it a vibrant underwater experience.
How challenging is the Maravagi F4F Wildcat (Wreck) dive, and what level of diving experience is recommended?
The Maravagi F4F Wildcat wreck dive is rated as intermediate in difficulty. This suggests that divers should have some experience beyond entry-level, comfortable with deeper dives and potentially currents. It's an excellent site for divers looking to expand their skills on a fascinating wreck.
What is the best time of year to dive the Maravagi F4F Wildcat (Wreck) for optimal conditions?
The provided data does not specify the best time of year for optimal diving conditions at the Maravagi F4F Wildcat wreck. For general guidance on diving in the Solomon Islands, we recommend consulting our When to Dive section for regional climate patterns.
Are there any specific diving certifications required to dive the Maravagi F4F Wildcat (Wreck)?
While specific certifications are not explicitly listed for the Maravagi F4F Wildcat wreck, its depth of 38 meters and intermediate difficulty rating strongly suggest that an Advanced Open Water Diver certification or equivalent is recommended. This ensures divers have the necessary training and experience for deeper wreck dives. Always consult with local dive operators for their specific requirements.
What are the typical current and visibility conditions at the Maravagi F4F Wildcat (Wreck) dive site?
Divers at the Maravagi F4F Wildcat wreck can expect a steady current, which contributes to the vibrant coral growth on the wreck and nearby reef. The average visibility at this site is typically around 14 meters, offering good viewing opportunities for the wreck and its abundant marine life.