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PBY Catalina Wreck
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The wreck of the PBY Catalina off the coast of Espiritu Santo is one of the most intriguing underwater landmarks from World War II in Vanuatu. This American amphibious patrol aircraft crashed in January 1944 during a mission near the Luganville harbor. Belonging to the US Navy, the aircraft was utilized for reconnaissance flights and sea-rescue operations. Today, the wreck rests at a depth of approximately 30 to 40 meters (100-130 feet) on the seabed. Despite decades of corrosion, its distinctive wings, engines, and cockpit remain clearly identifiable. The wreck has evolved into an artificial reef, hosting a vast array of marine life. For divers, it has a unique opportunity to explore a nearly intact wartime military aircraft in a spectacular underwater setting. It serves as a silent testament to the hazardous aerial missions flown from the bases on Santo during the Pacific War.
- Location: Vanuatu
- Top sights: Pentecost church · Apostolic life · Banan Apostolic Church
- Nearby: Big Nambas Territory (64 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 PBY Catalina wreck is accessible only by boat and requires diving or snorkeling. Parts are visible from the surface, but the best experience is a dive.
Typical hours
Typically accessible during daylight hours in good weather. Dive operators usually depart in the morning and afternoon.
Photography
Underwater photography is possible with waterproof cameras. A dive light is recommended to capture details and colors better.
Time needed
A typical dive to the wreck takes about 30-45 minutes. Including boat travel from Espiritu Santo, plan for half a day.
Combine with
Nearby are the SS President Coolidge wreck and Champagne Beach. Combine with a dive or snorkeling tour.
Getting there
Reach the wreck by a booked dive boat from Espiritu Santo. Most dive shops offer guided tours.
Insider tip
Visit during the calm season (April-October) for best visibility. The wreck is relatively shallow, suitable for advanced beginners.
Geography
Facts
- The aircraft crashed on January 14, 1944, shortly after takeoff.
- It lies within the Segond Channel area off the coast of Luganville.
- The PBY Catalina was famous for its long-range and durability.
- Both radial engines are still mounted on the wings at the bottom.
- The wreck site is considered a premier dive location for experienced divers.
- The aircraft featured a massive wingspan of over 31 meters (104 feet).
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights in the town PBY Catalina Wreck (4)
Banan Apostolic Church
Apostolic church in Banan on Espiritu Santo.
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Where exactly is the Catalina wreck?
It is located in the Segond Channel off the coast of Espiritu Santo.
Is it accessible to divers?
Yes, it is a popular diving destination for certified divers.
How deep is the wreck?
It lies in shallow water, usually at a depth of about 10-15 meters.
Do I need a diving certification?
Yes, a diving certification (Open Water) is mandatory for this dive.
Are there strong currents there?
Currents in the Segond Channel are usually moderate but should always be checked.
PBY Catalina Wreck: where is it located?
PBY Catalina Wreck is located in Vanuatu.
PBY Catalina Wreck: what is there to see?
Highlights include Pentecost church, Apostolic life, Banan Apostolic Church.
PBY Catalina Wreck: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jul, Sep.
PBY Catalina Wreck: why is it worth visiting?
The wreck of the PBY Catalina off the coast of Espiritu Santo is one of the most intriguing underwater landmarks from World War II in Vanuatu.
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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.
SS President Coolidge
A former luxury liner and troop transport of World War II that sank in 1942 after hitting US mines.
Avenger Wreck
The underwater wreck of a US Navy TBF Avenger torpedo bomber located near Santo.
SBD Dauntless Wreck
A US dive bomber that crashed off the coast of Espiritu Santo during World War II.
Million Dollar Point
A historic underwater graveyard off Espiritu Santo, where the US military dumped equipment after World War II.
Luganville Airfield
A massive military airfield constructed by the US on 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.
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Bokissa Island Marine Reserve
A private island dedicated to preserving turtle nesting sites and protecting local dugong populations.
Ratua Wildlife Reserve
Ratua combines sustainable tourism with the protection of wild horses and tropical bird species.
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Riri Blue Hole
Riri Blue Hole is accessible via a shallow river creek rich in mangroves and riparian vegetation.
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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.
Malo Peak
Malo Peak is the highest elevation on the island of Malo.
Oyster Island Mangroves
This small island near Santo hosts an important ecosystem for oysters and other shellfish within its mangroves.
More places
SS President Coolidge Wreck
The wreck of this luxury liner, sunk during WWII, is one of Vanuatu's most famous historical landmarks.
SS President Coolidge Reef
The wreck of the SS President Coolidge is now a massive artificial ecosystem for marine life off Espiritu Santo.
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.
Santo Meat Packers
The primary meat processing facility in Luganville, packing premium beef for export to markets like Japan.
Pekoa Airport Terminal
The Pekoa Airport terminal serves Luganville and the island of Espiritu Santo.
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.