Dive Gizo, Solomon Islands Oct ‘09
Dive Gizo, Solomon Islands – 23rd to 30th October 2009
Hidden in amongst the turquoise waters and peaceful lagoons in the Western Province of the Solomon Islands lies a small island called Gizo. Gizo, like all of the Solomon Islands, remains virtually untouched by the mayhem of tourism, and away from the town centre, life goes on as it did 500 years ago. As well as being the gateway for some world class diving, Gizo is a tropical treasure-trove blessed with sun drenched lagoons, white sandy beaches fringed with endless coconut palms, coral caves and volcanic islands.
The Diving- just a sample!
The waters around Gizo are famous for having the most diverse and exciting diving to be found anywhere in the Solomon’s; some may even say the world. The gin clear wateropens up an amazing display of sea whips, giant gorgonian fans and an immense display of hard and soft corals. There is a vast array of fish & fauna plus some sensational World War II wrecks. Sharks, pelagic fish, turtles, and eagle rays are ever present plus huge schools of reef fish make the diving memorable. For the underwater photographer, the marine life is astounding and so spectacular, it is considered to have some of the most photogenic seascapes in the world.
With the 140m Toa Maru transport ship, WWII fighter aircraft, plummeting walls, Manta Ray dives, one of the ultimate big dives “Grand Central”, and the recently discovered “Hot Spot”, it all adds up to one of the best dive locations in the South Pacific.
A twenty minute boat ride from Gizo is one of the South Pacific’s most popular diveable WWII shipwrecks. This is virtually intact Japanese transport ship of some 140m (450′) length lying on its starboard site. It was run aground after suffering damage from an American attack. The dive starts at an easy 7 metres and slants to 37 metres. Interesting artefacts adorn this vessel that sunk before it could be unloaded. Some of the trinkets include saki bottles, medical supplies, office equipment and rounds of ammunition. The larger objects include bombs, a motorbike, a type 21 tank. For the more experienced divers a guided tour inside the wreck to the bridge, crew quarters, engine room and medical supply room is a must do adventure.
American Hellcat Fighter Plane:
The plane is completely intact and lying in ten metres of water. A comprehensive history of the plane is available and the dive is high on the list for underwater photographers.
The Manta Dive:
An Adventure Sports Gizo exclusive, this site is visited on request and if the time is right then it’s one show you wouldn’t want to miss.
TRIP DETAILS:
8 days / 7 nights Departing 23rd Oct, returning 30th Oct 2009.
Return flights ex Brisbane to Honiara.
Return flights Honiara to Gizo.
Transfers from Gizo.
7 nights twin share. (extra $450 if you would like a single room)
10 guided dives including weights & tanks.
Light lunch on diving days.
Bonus dives on shallow plane wreck on reserve air.
$2495.00 plus taxes
Contact Indepth Scuba for bookings or enquries