Diving in Kadavu

The Great Astrolabe Reef

Kadavu is one of the less visited islands of Fiji which is precisely the reason why you should go there. No big resorts and fast food outlets here. Instead you can get a taste for the real Fiji, where the quickest transport is by boat, where the resorts are in tune with nature and where the true Fijian culture and warmth shines through. Part of Kadavu's charm lies in its secluded bays which can see you kayaking and snorkelling seemingly in the middle of nowhere.

The Great Astrolabe Reef, which curls away into the deep blue distance from the shores of the island, is what scuba diving in Kadavu is all about. Pristine hard corals in massed stands of colour abound, around which play a tremendous variety of marine life.

Highlights

Eagle Rock - One of The Great Astrolabe Reef's signature dives. Sunken boulders, pinnacles, narrow channels, sheer walls and a rugged, rocky sea floor combine to provide some of the most interesting topography you are likely to see. There is a great chance of seeing spotted eagle rays and there are other sights to watch out for such as large groupers and Napoleon wrasses, but it is the simply astonishing collection of hard corals here which makes this Kadavu diving site exceptional.

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How to Dive Kadavu

There is a clear north-south divide on this island. The southern shores are dominated by the Great Astrolabe Reef, one of the largest barrier reefs in the world. Colourful banks of hard corals prosper here with some high energy passages that attract reef sharks, rays, schooling fish and large groupers. Manta Reef is also located in the south, in the central region, where mantas are very common. If you like hard corals, remote locations and simple, easy-living, then the south of Kadavu is for you.

The north of the island is markedly different, with lots of soft coral bommies and pinnacles where the diving is easier. The resort has modern facilities and can arrange diving all along the northern coast, the deeper western sites, and Manta Reef, though not the Great Astrolabe Reef. If you need your mod cons and enjoy soft corals, then the north is for you.

Not sure which is for you? Why not try a short stay in the north and in the south and get the best of both worlds!

Matava Resort - an eco-friendly southern hideaway from which to explore the untamed Astrolabe Reef.

Kadavu Matana Beach Resort - conveniently located resort close to the northern dive sites.

Diving Season

The season for diving Kadavu is year round. August to October generally enjoys the best visibility when the cooler sea conditions arrive (24°C). The summer time between November and April has the seas at their warmest (30°C) although there is a greater chance of rain at this time.

Reef Summary

Great for: Large animals, reef life and health, visibility
Not so great for: Snorkelling
Depth: 5 - >40m
Visibility: 15 - 40m
Currents: Gentle to strong
Surface Conditions: Mostly calm but can be choppy offshore
Water Temperature: 24 - 30°C
Experience Level: Beginner - advanced
Number of dive sites: >60
Access: Scuba resorts
Recommended length of stay: 7 - 10 days

Dive Site Descriptions

For more on the detailed Kadavu dive sites:

• Kadavu tourist information

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• Fiji

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