Diving New Hanover… The second largest island in New Ireland province is located some 40km to the west of Kavieng.
It is a volcanic, rugged and very much untamed island! Its traditional name is Lavongai Island and most divers probably never have heard of it.
It is actually much better known among surfers for its waves and excellent breaks. While anthropologists know it for some of its traditional customs. Along with the interesting Johnson Cult the locals used against the former Australian colonial rulers.
But on the north-west tip of New Hanover is Three-Island Harbour…
The last resting place of four Japanese WWII vessels, all sunk by the Allied forces in February 1944. One of which is probably the best diveable and fully intact, midget submarine.
Diving New Hanover
The main reason divers go to New Hanover is Three Island Harbour – the last resting place of four Japanese WWII vessels.
All of which were sunk in February 1944, by B25 Mitchell bombers, as the Allies counter-attacked the Japanese forces – Read more…
Sanko Maru Wreck
The wreck of this armed WWII Japanese freighter lays in shallow water off the fringing reef on the southern side of Tunnung Island.
Laying on its starboard side in 22m of water, the wreck is literally covered in rich soft corals and gorgonian sea fans – Read more…
Japanese Midget Submarine
As the story goes, the submarine had laid undisturbed for 43 years when it was when it was discovered in 1987.
PNG diving legends Bob Halstead and Kevin Baldwin stumbled on the wreck while diving the Sanko Maru… – Read more…
Back To: The Complete Guide to Diving New Ireland