SOLOMON PRINCESS - Iron Bottom Sound

The Solomon Princess isn't a deep dive, sitting right on the rocks. She was a ferry, run aground in bad weather back in '85, and now she’s more or less a permanent fixture. We’ve found her a decent spot for a casual exploration, especially if you're not keen on depth but still want a proper wreck. You’ll see parts of the hull and superstructure, pretty well colonised by all sorts of fish. It's an easy dive, good for stretching out the air, with plenty of small reef fish darting in and out of the metalwork.

Location
Iron Bottom Sound, Solomon Islands, Central & South Pacific
Coordinates
-9.434214, 159.973970
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
0m

Marine Protected Area: Tulagi Island

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 SOLOMON PRINCESS

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 SOLOMON PRINCESS

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 typical depth range for diving the 'SOLOMON PRINCESS' dive site?
The SOLOMON PRINCESS dive site is exceptionally shallow, with a reported depth of 0m. This indicates that portions of the wreck are likely at or just below the surface, making it accessible for various water activities.
What kind of marine life and underwater features can divers expect to see at 'SOLOMON PRINCESS'?
Divers exploring the SOLOMON PRINCESS can expect to encounter a ferry vessel wreck, measuring 27.1m x 5.5m. This wreck, classified as showing portions of its hull or superstructure, offers an interesting historical underwater feature. Specific details regarding marine life at this site are not available in the current data, but wrecks often attract diverse ecosystems over time.
How difficult is the 'SOLOMON PRINCESS' dive site, and is it suitable for beginner divers?
The SOLOMON PRINCESS dive site is classified as intermediate difficulty. While not explicitly for advanced divers, this rating suggests it may present challenges beyond what is suitable for absolute beginners. Divers with some experience and comfort in various conditions would find this site more appropriate.
What is the best time of year to dive the 'SOLOMON PRINCESS' for optimal conditions and visibility?
Information regarding the best time of year to dive the SOLOMON PRINCESS for optimal conditions and visibility is not available in the provided data. We recommend checking local dive operator reports or general seasonal weather patterns for the Solomon Islands to plan your trip and consult our When to Dive guide.
Are there any specific diving certifications or experience levels required to dive 'SOLOMON PRINCESS'?
Given its intermediate difficulty rating, divers exploring the SOLOMON PRINCESS should possess at least an Open Water Diver certification with some practical experience. While specific advanced certifications aren't explicitly stated as required, experience with wreck diving or similar conditions would be beneficial for a comfortable and safe dive.
What are the usual current conditions and visibility like at the 'SOLOMON PRINCESS' dive site?
Details regarding the usual current conditions and visibility at the SOLOMON PRINCESS dive site are not included in the available data. For the most up-to-date information, it is always best to consult with local dive operators in Iron Bottom Sound before planning your dive.