Dive Site: Bonegi I & II

About Bonegi I & II

Bonegi I (Hirokawa Maru) and Bonegi II (Kinugawa Maru) are two Japanese transport ships resting off Guadalcanal's northwestern coast, approximately 12 kilometers west of Honiara. Sunk during Allied air attacks in 1942, these vessels are significant historical sites, forming part of the famous "Iron Bottom Sound." They offer a unique blend of World War II history and vibrant marine ecosystems. The wrecks are notable for their accessibility, allowing for direct shore entry from a black-sand beach. Bonegi I slopes from a shallow 3 meters at the bow down to 55 meters at the stern, while Bonegi II is generally shallower, extending to about 25 meters, with parts of its superstructure breaking the surface. Both wrecks are heavily encrusted with diverse hard and soft corals, transforming the steel structures into thriving artificial reefs. The conditions are typically calm, making them ideal for extended bottom times and photography. Marine life is abundant, with sightings of lionfish, scorpionfish, and schools of anthias common. Hawksbill turtles are often seen resting on deck structures, and batfish school around the masts. Clownfish and parrotfish are frequently observed, alongside occasional nudibranchs, flamboyant cuttlefish, and reef sharks. The optimal diving period is from April to November, offering the best visibility and calm seas. Entry to both sites is a wade-in from the beach. Novice divers can explore the shallow sections, while the deeper parts of Bonegi I require advanced certification. The sites are generally relaxed, though surface chop can occur, and careful buoyancy is essential inside the wrecks to prevent silting.

Dive site facts: Bonegi I & II

Depth

3–55 m

Typical dive

12–25 m, 50–60 min (variable by wreck section)

Current

Mild, occasional surge and surface chop

Visibility

15–30 m

Water temperature

27–30 °C

Entry

Shore entry / wade-in

Level

Open Water for shallow sections, Advanced / Deep for deeper sterns

Dive type

Wreck, coral gardens, macro, historical

Night dive

Possible

Region / port

Guadalcanal / Honiara

Coordinates

-9.4167, 159.8833

Conditions & Currents

Currents at Bonegi I & II are typically mild, making these sites suitable for a wide range of certified divers. However, divers should be aware of occasional surge and surface chop, particularly in the afternoons. Entry is a straightforward wade-in from the black-sand beach, providing easy access to the wrecks without requiring boat transfers. Visibility generally ranges from 15 to 30 meters, with water temperatures consistently between 27 to 30°C. While the conditions are generally relaxed, Open Water divers can enjoy the shallow sections, but exploring the deeper stern of Bonegi I down to 55 meters necessitates Advanced or Deep Diver certification. Careful buoyancy control is paramount, especially when considering wreck penetration, to avoid stirring up silt and maintain pristine conditions.

Marine life & sighting chances

Clownfish

common

Parrotfish

common

Soft coral

common

Fusiliers

common

Snappers

common

Barracuda

common

Nudibranchs

occasional

Gobies

occasional

Flamboyant cuttlefish

occasional

Reef sharks

occasional

Dive profile & how the dive runs

Bonegi I (Hirokawa Maru) and Bonegi II (Kinugawa Maru) are shore dives accessed from a black-sand beach. For Bonegi I, entry is a wade-in, leading to the bow of the Hirokawa Maru which starts in just a few meters of water. Novices can explore this shallow bow and superstructure, which is rich with coral and fish. More experienced divers can follow the hull as it slopes down to a maximum depth of 55 meters at the stern. Careful buoyancy is essential to avoid silting out the interior. Bonegi II (Kinugawa Maru) is shallower, with sections of the superstructure breaking the surface. Entry is also from the beach, and the wreck extends down to approximately 25 meters, offering long bottom times and good light for photography. Both sites typically feature mild currents, but surface chop can occur.

Underwater photography

Bonegi I and II are outstanding sites for underwater photography due to their accessible wrecks, abundant marine life, and good light conditions. For the shallower sections, especially Bonegi II, a wide-angle or fisheye lens is ideal to capture the scale of the wrecks, schools of fish, and the vibrant coral growth. The natural light penetration in the 5–15 meter range allows for excellent color rendition without excessive artificial lighting. For macro subjects like nudibranchs, gobies, and flamboyant cuttlefish found amidst the coral-encrusted steel, a 60mm or 100mm macro lens is recommended. Dual strobes will help bring out the colors and details on the wrecks and marine life. Be mindful of buoyancy, especially near the wrecks, to avoid disturbing fragile corals or silting out the environment. Given the potential for long bottom times, photographers can take their time composing shots.

Combine with nearby dive sites

• Honiara - Iron Bottom Sound

  General area for numerous WWII wrecks, many at technical depths.

• P-39 Airacobra Wreck

  Another accessible WWII aircraft wreck in the Honiara region.

• Tulagi - Twin Tunnels

  Spectacular volcanic shafts with abundant marine life.

• Toa Maru

  Massive Japanese transport ship wreck in the Gizo area.

Getting there & logistics

The primary gateway to the Solomon Islands is Honiara International Airport (HIR) on Guadalcanal, with international connections from Australia, Fiji, Papua New Guinea, and New Zealand. Bonegi I & II are easily accessible as day trips from Honiara, located about a 15-minute drive west of the city. While liveaboards are common in the Solomon Islands, they typically focus on other regions like the Russell Islands, Florida Islands, or Western Province. Bonegi is primarily a shore-based dive. Expect to pay a small local fee to access the beach and dive sites. The local currency is the Solomon Islands dollar (SBD), though USD may be accepted at major hotels. Travelers should carry smaller local notes for village interactions. A 3mm wetsuit is generally sufficient given the warm water temperatures.

Safety & environment

While Bonegi I & II are considered accessible shore dives, divers should be aware of specific safety considerations. Ensure you dive with a reputable local operator who understands the sites. Always respect depth limits, especially on Bonegi I where the stern extends to 55 meters, requiring Advanced or Deep Diver certification and careful planning. Buoyancy control is critical, particularly inside the wrecks to prevent silting and potential disorientation. Malaria is present on Guadalcanal, so consult a doctor about prophylaxis. Decompression chambers are extremely limited in the Solomon Islands, making comprehensive remote-evacuation dive insurance an absolute necessity for all divers. Maintain awareness of your surroundings for occasional surge and surface chop, particularly during entry and exit.

Who it suits — and who it doesn't

FAQ

Bonegi I & II FAQ

Liveaboards diving Bonegi I & II

These liveaboards may visit Bonegi I & II on selected itineraries — the exact dive sites depend on departure, weather and conditions.

Solomons Master

Solomon Islands

16 guests

$401/day

Emperor Bilikiki

Solomon Islands

20 guests38 m

$569/day

Pacific Master

Solomon Islands

20 guests30 m

$268/day