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Simpson Harbour Wreck Diving: WWII Sunken Fleet of Rabaul

Plunge into Simpson Harbour to explore one of the Pacific's most spectacular wreck-diving graveyards — dozens of Japanese warships, transports and aircraft lying in warm, crystal-clear tropical waters at diveable depths. For certified divers, this is an absolute must-do bucket-list experience.

What to expect

A short boat ride from the Kokopo jetty brings you over the ghostly silhouettes of Japanese ships visible even from the surface. Your dive master guides you through holds still packed with wartime cargo — trucks, sake bottles, gas masks — all encrusted with vivid coral and patrolled by reef sharks and barracuda. Between dives, enjoy the surface views of Tavurvur steaming across the harbour. Non-divers can snorkel the shallower wrecks or join the boat for the spectacle.

Book it with
Rabaul Dive Adventures (Kokopo Beach Bungalows Resort)
Approx. USD 150–180 per person for a two-tank guided wreck dive (equipment hire additional)
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Good to know

Certified divers only for wreck dives; bring your C-card and log book. Book directly with Rabaul Dive Adventures at Kokopo Beach Bungalows Resort in advance. Full-day trips depart early morning — confirm your port schedule carefully. Snorkel-only options may be arranged for non-divers.

Sail there

Luxury cruises that call at Rabaul — book through us, the fare is identical and your concierge stays on your side.

Regent · Seven Seas Navigator
9 nights · calls at Rabaul
from $4,899
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Seabourn · Seabourn Pursuit
22 nights · calls at Rabaul
from $24,224
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Princess · Coral Princess
28 nights · calls at Rabaul
from $4,350
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Holland America · Westerdam
42 nights · calls at Rabaul
from $6,754
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See all cruises to Rabaul →
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