MASA MARU NO.8
Protected Area
Tulagi Island
Why dive here
With 391+ marine species recorded in the area - including barracuda, blacktip reef sharks, grey reef sharks, humpback whales and orcas - MASA MARU NO.8 offers some of Iron Bottom Sound's richest wreck diving. Water ranges 29-31°C, warmest January, April, December.
The MASA MARU NO.8 is an interesting little find, especially if you’re into the shallows of Iron Bottom Sound. It’s barely a dive, more of a snorkel or a leisurely fin around, sitting right there at four metres. We love it for a relaxed afternoon, or as a warm-up before hitting deeper wrecks. This fishing vessel ran aground during Cyclone Carlotta, and you can still make out the superstructure poking above the waterline, which is pretty cool. You'll spend your time here weaving around the remains of the hull, which has become a busy apartment block for a surprising number of smaller creatures. Look for the glint of fusiliers darting in and out of the rusted metalwork, and we often spot damselfish nipping at the algae. It’s a gentle introduction to the area’s history, perfect for photographers wanting to play with ambient light or anyone just wanting a peaceful bob in the water.
Typical MASA MARU NO.8 Dive Profile
Illustrative profile based on site depth and type. Actual dive profiles vary - always follow your dive computer and training.
Safety Notes
Wreck site - avoid penetration without wreck diving certification. Watch for sharp metal and entanglement hazards.
Nearest Dive Centres to MASA MARU NO.8
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Conditions
Ocean conditions, forecast and tides for MASA MARU NO.8
MASA MARU NO.8 Ocean Conditions
Monthly averages for MASA MARU NO.8, sourced from Open-Meteo marine data - nearest station: Open-Meteo marine grid (-9.03, 159.16) (58km away)
October Averages
Sea Temperature
30°C
85°F · Range: 28.7–30.5°C
Air Temperature
27°C
80°F
Wind Speed
3.74 m/s
7.3 knots
Atmospheric Pressure
1010.5 hPa
Based on 4 years of monitoring data · Data sources: Open-Meteo marine data
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