Shinwa Maru - Cenderawasih Bay

The Shinwa Maru, a 120m Japanese transport, sits upright off Marsinam Island, deep in Cenderawasih Bay. It’s a wreck that demands respect, extending well beyond recreational limits, down to 120m. We typically hit the shallower sections, finding the bridge and cargo holds still remarkably intact. Look for the bow gun and the general ship structure, now a home for schooling fusiliers and the occasional grouper. This site is definitely one for advanced wreck enthusiasts comfortable with deeper profiles and potentially strong currents.

Location
Cenderawasih Bay, Indonesia, Southeast Asia
Coordinates
-2.990000, 134.830000

Best Time to Dive in Cenderawasih Bay

The warmest water temperatures in Cenderawasih Bay occur in November, averaging 30.7°C. The coolest conditions are in July at 29.8°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 30.5°C
  • February: 30.2°C
  • March: 30.0°C
  • April: 30.2°C
  • May: 30.2°C
  • June: 29.9°C
  • July: 29.8°C
  • August: 30.0°C
  • September: 30.0°C
  • October: 30.4°C
  • November: 30.7°C
  • December: 30.6°C

Nearby Dive Sites in Cenderawasih Bay

Marine Life in Cenderawasih Bay

Home to 84 recorded species including 38 reef fish, 36 hard corals, 7 sea snails & nudibranchs, 1 clams & mussels, 1 sharks & rays, 1 octopus & squid.

Notable Species

Recommended Packing List for Shinwa Maru

Based on average water temperature of 30.2°C, currents 6 cm/s.

  • 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 Shinwa Maru wreck?
The exact depth range for diving the Shinwa Maru wreck is not specified in our current data. However, many World War II wrecks in Cenderawasih Bay vary significantly in depth. Some are accessible within recreational limits, while others are much deeper and present challenges for even the most experienced wreck divers.
What kind of marine life and historical artifacts can divers expect to see on the Shinwa Maru?
While the Shinwa Maru is a 120m Japanese transport ship, specific details about the marine life and historical artifacts divers can expect to see are not explicitly provided in our current information. As a "reef" type site, it likely attracts various marine species over time. Divers exploring this World War II wreck may discover general features of a sunken vessel.
Is the Shinwa Maru considered a difficult dive site, and what level of diving experience is recommended?
The Shinwa Maru is considered an intermediate difficulty dive site. While not explicitly for advanced divers, an intermediate level of diving experience is recommended to comfortably explore this 120m Japanese transport ship. Divers should be prepared for potential conditions that can make wreck diving challenging.
What are the best months or seasons to dive the Shinwa Maru for optimal conditions and visibility?
Our current data does not specify the best months or seasons to dive the Shinwa Maru for optimal conditions and visibility. For general guidance on diving in Indonesia, you might consult our When to Dive section. Local dive operators in Cenderawasih Bay can provide the most up-to-date information.
What scuba diving certifications are required or highly recommended to dive the Shinwa Maru?
Given that the Shinwa Maru is an intermediate difficulty dive site, an Advanced Open Water certification is highly recommended. For those wishing to explore the 120m Japanese transport ship more thoroughly, a Wreck Diver specialty certification would be beneficial. Always consult with local dive operators in Cenderawasih Bay for their specific requirements.
What are the typical current conditions and water visibility like at the Shinwa Maru dive site?
Our current data does not provide specific details on the typical current conditions or water visibility at the Shinwa Maru dive site. Conditions can vary greatly, even within Cenderawasih Bay. It is always best to check with local dive operators for the most current information before planning your dive.