Rabaul & New Hanover, Papua New Guinea
-2.57337, 150.79516
Papua New Guinea (PNG) is a wild, wonderful, complex and traditional country that occupies the eastern half of the Island of New Guinea and its offshore islands in Melanesia. It may be the most culturally diverse nation in the world.
There are well over 800 languages spoken and most of the population live in strong traditional groups based on farming. Tribal culture still is the backbone of this country.
New Guinea’s nature is exceptional both above and below the water. Many of the islands within PNG were never linked to New Guinea by land bridges. As a consequence they have their own unique flora and fauna.
Rabaul is located at the eastern end of the Island of New Britain. New Britain was at one point part of German New Guinea and at the time called Neupommern or New Pomerania. The island is around 500 km wide, quite mountainous and has a number of active volcanoes.
About 300km northwest of Rabaul at the top of the island of New Ireland lies New Hanover Island which feels like a true outpost, even in PNG.
During World War II heavy fighting erupted around many of the islands. Still today there are numerous wrecks to be seen, both above and below the water.
The diving
Rabaul in New Britain and Kavieng on the north end of New Ireland both had large Japanese bases during occupation in World War II. As a result there are a number of wrecks, both marine vessels and airplanes, that can be dived. Most spectacular, in my view, is a midget submarine wreck located off the north cost of New Hanover.
Known for its high biodiversity, many rare critters can be observed in these locations.
The Albatross passage near Kavieng is a wonderful dive to see lots of pelagics and to experience ripping currents.
