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Bonegi II Wreck
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The Bonegi II wreck, also known as the Kinugawa Maru, is a significant World War II underwater landmark located west of Honiara on Guadalcanal island. This Japanese transport ship was part of a major reinforcement effort during the Battle of Guadalcanal in November 1942. After sustaining heavy damage from American aircraft, the captain intentionally beached the vessel to salvage cargo and troops. Today, the 135-meter-long ship sits partially submerged, with its bow near the shoreline and its stern descending to a depth of approximately 26 meters. The vessel originally weighed nearly 7,000 tons and has since become a complex artificial reef, supporting a diverse ecosystem of soft corals and tropical fish. As one of the most accessible wrecks in the Solomon Islands, it serves as a poignant memorial to the naval conflicts of the Pacific theater and is a world-renowned site for historical diving.
- Location: Solomon Islands
- Top sights: Bonegi Beach · Mbonege Beach Shipwreck · Sinking ship
- Nearby: Kokumbona (6 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jul–Sep.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 27 | 26 | 26 | 26 | 26 | 26 | 26 | 26 | 26 | 26 | 27 | 27 |
| Rain mm | 263 | 305 | 277 | 220 | 214 | 143 | 135 | 114 | 107 | 160 | 167 | 221 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The Bonegi II wreck lies just meters from the shore in shallow water, making it easily accessible for snorkelers and divers. Beach access is free, but the wreck itself is only viewable from the water.
Typical hours
As the wreck is in the sea, there are no visiting hours; it's accessible anytime with suitable weather and tides. Best visited in calm sea conditions and during daylight hours.
Photography
Underwater photography is unrestricted as long as you use a waterproof camera or GoPro. Be careful not to touch the wreck to protect the coral and historic fabric.
Time needed
Snorkelers need about 20-30 minutes to swim around the wreck; divers can plan 30-60 minutes depending on the dive. Total beach time including approach is about an hour.
Combine with
The wreck is near Bonegi Beach, so you can combine a beach day with a picnic. The nearby Bonegi I wreck (another wreck) is also a short snorkel away.
Getting there
Bonegi Beach is about a 20-minute drive west of Honiara along the coastal road (Mendana Avenue). A taxi or rental car is best; public buses go to the turnoff, then a 10-minute walk.
Insider tip
Rent snorkel gear in Honiara beforehand, as there are no rental stands on the beach. A visit at low tide provides shallower water and better views of the wreck's structure.
Geography
Facts
- The ship was intentionally beached on November 15, 1942.
- The total length of the vessel is 135 meters.
- Diving depths at the site range from 3 to 26 meters.
- The ship was a Japanese transport vessel weighing 6,936 tons.
- It is located only a few meters from the shore of Bonegi Beach.
- The vessel was named after the Kinugawa River in Japan.
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Sights in the town Bonegi II Wreck (3)
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Frequently asked questions
What is special about the Bonegi II wreck?
It is a huge wreck that partially sticks out of the water and is easily accessible.
Is it good for snorkeling?
Yes, even just snorkeling allows you to see a fascinating underwater world.
Do I need a boat for the visit?
No, you can swim directly from the beach to the wreck.
Is the water safe?
The water is usually calm, but be careful of sharp edges on the wreck.
When is the best time for divers?
Daylight hours offer the best visibility for underwater photography.
Bonegi II Wreck: where is it located?
Bonegi II Wreck is located in Solomon Islands.
Bonegi II Wreck: what is there to see?
Highlights include Bonegi Beach, Mbonege Beach Shipwreck, Sinking ship.
Bonegi II Wreck: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jul, Sep.
Bonegi II Wreck: why is it worth visiting?
The Bonegi II wreck, also known as the Kinugawa Maru, is a significant World War II underwater landmark located west of Honiara on Guadalcanal island.
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Point Cruz Plaque
This commemorative plaque at the Yacht Club marks the historical significance of Point Cruz during the naval battles of 1942.