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Avenger Wreck
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The Avenger Wreck located off the coast of Efate Island is a significant relic of World War II Pacific theater aviation history. The site features a Grumman TBF Avenger, a US Navy torpedo bomber that went down in the waters near Port Vila during a training exercise or combat mission. The aircraft rests at a depth of approximately 10 to 15 meters on a sandy seabed, making it highly accessible for recreational divers. Despite decades of submersion, the aircraft's structural components, including the wings and cockpit area, remain remarkably well-preserved. This underwater site functions as both a historical memorial and an artificial reef, supporting a diverse range of marine flora and fauna. Historical records confirm that the New Hebrides, now Vanuatu, served as a major logistics and staging base for US forces between 1942 and 1945.
- Location: Vanuatu
- Top sights: Pentecost church · Banan Apostolic Church · Banban Bible Church
- Nearby: Big Nambas Territory (66 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 | 27 | 27 | 27 | 26 | 25 | 24 | 24 | 25 | 26 | 26 | 27 |
| Rain mm | 272 | 274 | 271 | 272 | 183 | 162 | 116 | 105 | 109 | 151 | 175 | 170 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The Avenger Wreck is an underwater wreck off the coast of Santo and is only accessible to divers. The wreck lies at about 20 to 30 meters depth and requires diver certification.
Typical hours
Dives to the wreck are typically offered by local dive shops, usually in the morning when visibility is good. Exact departure times depend on tides and weather.
Photography
Underwater photography is a must - the wreck is well-preserved and gives great shots. Use a flash or dive light to capture colors at depth.
Time needed
A dive to the Avenger Wreck typically lasts 30 to 45 minutes depending on air supply and current. Allow half a day for the entire dive trip.
Combine with
Combine the dive with a visit to the SS President Coolidge or Million Dollar Point, also famous dive sites off Santo. Luganville's beaches also invite relaxation.
Getting there
The wreck lies off the east coast of Santo, near Aore Island. Dive shops in Luganville or on Aore offer trips to the wreck.
Insider tip
Book the dive through a certified dive shop and check your gear carefully beforehand. The current can be strong, so an experienced dive guide is recommended.
Geography
Facts
- The Grumman TBF Avenger was the primary torpedo bomber for the US Navy during WWII.
- The wreck is situated at a depth of 10 to 15 meters off the coast of Efate.
- Over 500,000 US military personnel were stationed in the New Hebrides from 1942.
- The aircraft's fuselage and wing structures are still clearly identifiable underwater.
- The site has become a thriving artificial reef for local marine biodiversity.
- Vanuatu served as a critical rear-echelon base during the Guadalcanal campaign.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Avenger Wreck (6)
Banban Bible Church
Bible-based church in Banban; centre for prayer and Bible study.
Flower Garden Water Music
Water show with music and illuminated fountains set in a flower garden.
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Is the Avenger wreck suitable for snorkeling?
Yes, in calm seas, it is a fascinating experience for snorkelers and divers.
Is a guide needed for the dive?
Yes, a local guide knows the currents and the best entry point.
When is the best time to dive?
Visibility is best in the dry season (May to October).
Is the wreck very deep?
No, it lies at a moderate depth, suitable for recreational divers.
Are there any dangers there?
Watch out for currents and sharp edges on the metal.
Avenger Wreck: where is it located?
Avenger Wreck is located in Vanuatu.
Avenger Wreck: what is there to see?
Highlights include Pentecost church, Banan Apostolic Church, Banban Bible Church.
Avenger Wreck: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jul, Sep.
Avenger Wreck: why is it worth visiting?
The Avenger Wreck located off the coast of Efate Island is a significant relic of World War II Pacific theater aviation history.
Explore with Plizio
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Nearby cities
History & landmarks
Port Vila City Hall
The City Hall is the administrative center for the municipal government of the capital, Port Vila.
Million Dollar Point
A historic underwater graveyard off Espiritu Santo, where the US military dumped equipment after World War II.
SS President Coolidge
A former luxury liner and troop transport of World War II that sank in 1942 after hitting US mines.
Luganville Airfield
A massive military airfield constructed by the US on Espiritu Santo during World War II.
PBY Catalina Wreck
The wreck of a US PBY Catalina flying boat that sank in the Segond Channel during World War II.
SBD Dauntless Wreck
A US dive bomber that crashed off the coast of Espiritu Santo during World War II.
Northern District Hospital
The Northern District Hospital in Luganville is the main health center for the northern islands.
Luganville Market House
The main trading hub in Luganville, essential for the distribution of fresh food across Espiritu Santo.
Nature
Aore Island Reefs
The coastal waters of Aore are rich in brain corals and provide habitats for diverse marine invertebrates.
🗺️
Bokissa Island Marine Reserve
A private island dedicated to preserving turtle nesting sites and protecting local dugong populations.
🗺️
Riri Blue Hole
Riri Blue Hole is accessible via a shallow river creek rich in mangroves and riparian vegetation.
Ratua Wildlife Reserve
Ratua combines sustainable tourism with the protection of wild horses and tropical bird species.
🗺️
Matevulu Blue Hole
Matevulu is one of the largest blue holes on Santo, known for its lush mangroves lining the banks.
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Circe Blue Hole
A lesser-known blue hole distinguished by its deep sapphire color and surrounding undisturbed wilderness.
Oyster Island Mangroves
This small island near Santo hosts an important ecosystem for oysters and other shellfish within its mangroves.
Malo Peak
Malo Peak is the highest elevation on the island of Malo.
More places
Pekoa Cargo Center
The logistics facility at Pekoa Airport on Espiritu Santo supports the export of northern agricultural products.
Million Dollar Point Reef
US military equipment dumped after WWII has created a unique artificial reef with high marine biodiversity.
SS President Coolidge Reef
The wreck of the SS President Coolidge is now a massive artificial ecosystem for marine life off Espiritu Santo.
SS President Coolidge Wreck
The wreck of this luxury liner, sunk during WWII, is one of Vanuatu's most famous historical landmarks.
Pekoa Airport Terminal
The Pekoa Airport terminal serves Luganville and the island of Espiritu Santo.
Santo Meat Packers
The primary meat processing facility in Luganville, packing premium beef for export to markets like Japan.
Luganville Wharf
The country's second-largest port on Espiritu Santo, serving as a hub for exporting copra, beef, and cocoa.
Santo War Memorial
This memorial in Luganville honors those who served on Espiritu Santo during World War II.