Deep Ocean Expeditions

Expedition 3: Departing Lae, PNG – Arriving Rabaul, PNG (10th May – 24th May 2007)

Deep Ocean Expeditions, brainchild of renowned Australian explorer Mike McDowell, has been offering dive expeditions to remote and exciting dive locations for over twenty years. Our dive destinations have always strived to seek out new and adventurous dive sites from throughout the Pacific 'Oceania' region. Our 2007 expedition itinerary continues to build on this theme as we head to the unique, exciting and unbelievably diverse, Papua New Guinea; 'land of the unexpected'. Join us for a world class diving experience against a beautiful tropical backdrop as we venture into remote areas to explore both the underwater and above water delights of the Solomon Sea region.

The world's second largest island, Papua New Guinea (PNG) has incredible biological diversity. It is thought to contain over 5% of the world's total number of species within just 1% of the worlds land area. This rich morass of life continues into the underwater realm and ensures both divers and snorkelers receive an unparralled diving experience. With more marine species than any other place on Earth, it is estimated that the waters surrounding this young nation have five times the number of species found in the Caribbean.

Timed to coincide with the start of the dry season, our expeditions will traverse the warm seductive waters of the Solomon Sea and the coastline of the island of New Britain, the largest of PNG's 600 named islands. This expedition will explore island walls, underwater pinnacles and undisturbed reefs as we get to know the incredible range of species that make this ecosystem their home. The enchanting coral gardens, dynamic wildlife, varied bathymetry and historic wrecks of this region combine to promise divers a veritable smorgasbord of diving opportunities.

Our expedition vessel, the Akademik Shokalskiy will provide a spacious and comfortable base for our expedition. The fleet of nimble Zodiacs will allow us to explore the reefs in detail while back on our ship; our Master Chefs prepare another meal featuring excellent international cuisine. For those who want to experience above water adventures we will offer daily sightseeing shore excursions to view wildlife, meet local villagers, purchase handicrafts and watch traditional local cultural performances.

PNG is a stunning destination. With 4.3 million inhabitants hailing from over 5000 different clans and speaking over 750 separate languages, Papua New Guinea is easily the most culturally diverse nation on Earth. Diverse landscapes stretch from the deep oceanic trenches to the living reefs that surround the coast line, from broad fertile plains to the towering snow clad peaks that rise proudly to 15,000 feet. The biodiversity, both above and below the water, is in quantities unequaled anywhere, and contains many unique species that have existed here for millennia. Papua New Guinea is vibrant, exciting, enchanting and truly is 'the land of the unexpected'. We hope that you can come and join us on a diving adventure that explores some of PNG's delights.

Tropical Diving - Papua New Guinea (PDF)