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SBD Dauntless Wreck
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The SBD Dauntless wreck off Espiritu Santo is a significant relic of Pacific aerial warfare. The Douglas SBD Dauntless was the primary dive bomber of the US Navy, achieving worldwide fame for its pivotal role during the Battle of Midway. The wreck in Santo's waters is situated in relatively shallow depths, making it an accessible site for both scuba divers and snorkelers. It is believed to have crashed during a training mission in 1944, likely due to mechanical failure or fuel exhaustion. While the aircraft sustained damage upon impact, the fuselage, cockpit, and distinctive propeller remain impressively preserved. Many instruments and details of the onboard armament can still be discerned beneath the crust of coral and algae. Today, the wreck functions as a lively habitat for reef fish and stands as a key part of Luganville's military historical heritage.
- Location: Vanuatu
- Top sights: Vanilla Farm Tour Phoenix Plantation · Cocoa Plantation Tour
- 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 SBD Dauntless wreck lies off the coast of Espiritu Santo and is only accessible to divers. The aircraft remains are in relatively shallow water so even beginners can visit it. Accompaniment by an experienced dive guide is recommended.
Typical hours
Dives to the wreck are typically organized by dive shops in Luganville or nearby resorts. Tours usually run in the morning when visibility is best. Weather conditions can affect availability.
Photography
Underwater photography is obviously possible and very rewarding as the wreck is well preserved. Use a waterproof camera or GoPro with good low-light sensitivity. Take care not to touch parts of the wreck to protect it.
Time needed
A single dive to the wreck typically lasts 30-45 minutes underwater, plus prep and travel. Plan half a day for the entire trip, including briefing and gear. Multiple dives are possible if you book a full day.
Combine with
Combine the dive with other wrecks in the area, such as the SS President Coolidge or Million Dollar Point. Luganville itself provides other WWII historical sites. Many dive operators combine multiple wreck targets in one tour.
Getting there
The wreck is reached by boat from Luganville or a nearby resort. Travel time is about 20-30 minutes. Book a dive trip with one of the licensed dive shops on Espiritu Santo.
Insider tip
If you cannot dive, some operators offer snorkeling trips to view the wreck from the surface. Check your dive insurance beforehand - many policies don't cover wreck diving overseas.
Geography
Facts
- The SBD Dauntless was known for its 'Swiss cheese' perforated dive brakes.
- The wreck is located at a depth of only 5 to 10 meters (16-33 feet).
- The Wright R-1820 radial engine is still clearly visible at the front.
- It is one of several Dauntless wrecks documented around Espiritu Santo.
- Divers can often spot remnants of the machine gun ammunition belts.
- This aircraft was part of the massive air wing based at Pallikulo Airfield.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights in the town SBD Dauntless Wreck (2)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is the condition of the Dauntless?
The aircraft is surprisingly well-preserved and sits upright on the sea floor.
What diving skills are required?
Due to the depth, experience in wreck diving is recommended.
Can you see the cockpit?
Yes, with good visibility, the cockpit is clearly visible from the outside.
How are the lighting conditions at the wreck?
The water is clear, but a dive light helps to see details better.
Is the wreck protected?
Yes, it is a historical monument; taking souvenirs is strictly forbidden.
SBD Dauntless Wreck: where is it located?
SBD Dauntless Wreck is located in Vanuatu.
SBD Dauntless Wreck: what is there to see?
Highlights include Vanilla Farm Tour Phoenix Plantation, Cocoa Plantation Tour.
SBD Dauntless Wreck: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jul, Sep.
SBD Dauntless Wreck: why is it worth visiting?
The SBD Dauntless wreck off Espiritu Santo is a significant relic of Pacific aerial warfare.
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History & landmarks
Port Vila City Hall
The City Hall is the administrative center for the municipal government of the capital, Port Vila.
PBY Catalina Wreck
The wreck of a US PBY Catalina flying boat that sank in the Segond Channel during World War II.
Northern District Hospital
The Northern District Hospital in Luganville is the main health center for the northern islands.
Avenger Wreck
The underwater wreck of a US Navy TBF Avenger torpedo bomber located near Santo.
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.
Luganville Market House
The main trading hub in Luganville, essential for the distribution of fresh food across Espiritu Santo.
Million Dollar Point
A historic underwater graveyard off Espiritu Santo, where the US military dumped equipment after World War II.
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
Luganville Wharf
The country's second-largest port on Espiritu Santo, serving as a hub for exporting copra, beef, and cocoa.
SS President Coolidge Wreck
The wreck of this luxury liner, sunk during WWII, is one of Vanuatu's most famous historical landmarks.
Pekoa Cargo Center
The logistics facility at Pekoa Airport on Espiritu Santo supports the export of northern agricultural products.
Santo Meat Packers
The primary meat processing facility in Luganville, packing premium beef for export to markets like Japan.
SS President Coolidge Reef
The wreck of the SS President Coolidge is now a massive artificial ecosystem for marine life off Espiritu Santo.
Million Dollar Point Reef
US military equipment dumped after WWII has created a unique artificial reef with high marine biodiversity.
Pekoa Airport Terminal
The Pekoa Airport terminal serves Luganville and the island of Espiritu Santo.
Santo War Memorial
This memorial in Luganville honors those who served on Espiritu Santo during World War II.