USS Kanawa (Wreck) - Iron Bottom Sound

The Quarry is exactly what it sounds like, a flooded rock quarry used for building materials, now a pretty decent inland dive spot. It bottoms out at around 17 metres, generally with about 10 metres of visibility, which is nice and reliable when the ocean gets too feisty. It’s walled on three sides, meaning it’s a great option for training or just a calm dip when the wind is up. You'll often spot carp, various barbel, and smallmouth yellows, with the occasional bass or even trout making an appearance. It’s a solid, sheltered choice for knocking out some skills or enjoying a peaceful freshwater dive.

Location
Iron Bottom Sound, Solomon Islands, Central & South Pacific
Coordinates
-9.119500, 160.159100
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
15-30m

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 USS Kanawa (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 USS Kanawa (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 maximum depth of the USS Kanawha wreck dive?
The maximum depth for diving the USS Kanawha wreck is 40 meters. While the stern of the vessel extends to 55 meters, the recommended maximum depth for this dive is 40 meters. This allows divers to explore the bow section and other key areas of this historic Iron Bottom Sound site.
What kind of marine life and historical artifacts can divers expect to see on the USS Kanawha wreck?
Divers exploring the USS Kanawha wreck can expect to encounter vibrant marine life, including large schools of batfish, trevally, and jacks. As a historical Fleet Oiler and Freighter sunk in 1943, the entire 476-foot vessel itself serves as a significant historical artifact, resting upright on the sandy seafloor. While specific artifacts are not detailed, the wreck itself offers a profound glimpse into World War II history in the Solomon Islands.
How challenging is diving the USS Kanawha wreck, and what level of diving experience is recommended?
Diving the USS Kanawha wreck is considered an intermediate-level dive. Divers should possess experience suitable for wreck diving and managing depths up to 40 meters. This ensures a safe and enjoyable exploration of this significant historical site in Iron Bottom Sound.
What is the best time of year to dive the USS Kanawha wreck for optimal conditions?
The provided data does not specify the best time of year to dive the USS Kanawha wreck for optimal conditions. For general information on seasonal diving conditions in the Solomon Islands, we recommend checking our When to Dive guide. Always consult with local dive operators for the most current conditions and recommendations.
What scuba diving certifications are required to dive the USS Kanawha wreck?
While specific certification names are not provided in the data, given the USS Kanawha wreck is an intermediate dive with a maximum depth of 40 meters, divers should hold certifications appropriate for deep and wreck diving. This typically includes advanced open water training or a deep diver specialty. Always confirm specific requirements with your chosen dive operator in the Solomon Islands.
What are the typical currents and visibility conditions at the USS Kanawha wreck dive site?
At the USS Kanawha wreck dive site, divers can expect an average visibility of 12 meters. The provided data does not specify typical current conditions for this particular site in Iron Bottom Sound. It's always advisable to check with local dive centers for real-time conditions before your dive.