Dive Site: Custom House Reef

About Custom House Reef

Custom House Reef in the Solomon Islands is a highly regarded dive site, notable for its exceptional biodiversity and healthy coral ecosystems. Situated in a region renowned for its pristine marine environments, this reef offers a glimpse into the Solomon Islands' rich underwater world, attracting divers eager to explore its vibrant habitats. It provides a unique contrast to the area's well-known wreck dives and cavern systems, focusing instead on the intricate beauty of its reef life. The topography of Custom House Reef typically features extensive hard coral gardens and formations that descend into deeper reef slopes. While specific depth details are not extensively documented, its reputation for diverse macro life suggests shallower sections are abundant, alongside areas suitable for broader reef exploration. The surrounding waters of the Solomon Islands generally boast excellent health, with nutrient-rich currents supporting a thriving ecosystem. Marine life at Custom House Reef is characterized by a wide array of smaller, fascinating creatures, making it a prime location for macro photography. Divers can expect to encounter various invertebrates, colorful reef fish, and potentially pelagic species passing by in the blue. The warm, consistent water temperatures and typically good visibility of the Solomon Islands enhance the experience, allowing for comfortable and extended observations of the reef's inhabitants. Diving Custom House Reef typically involves exploring the various reef formations, allowing ample time to observe both macro and wider reef scenes. Its inclusion in liveaboard itineraries, often alongside other diverse sites, underscores its value as a unique and rewarding dive experience within the Solomon Islands' extensive diving offerings.

Dive site facts: Custom House Reef

Depth

3–15 m

Current

Mild

Visibility

30+ m (100+ ft)

Water temperature

27–30°C (82–85°F)

Entry

Boat

Level

Open Water Diver

Dive type

Reef, Macro

Night dive

Possible

Region / port

Western Province

Coordinates

-8.3667, 157.95

Conditions & Currents

Currents at Custom House Reef are generally mild, creating favorable conditions for observing macro life and exploring the reef at a leisurely pace. However, as with many reef dives in the Solomon Islands, occasional gentle currents can be present, which help to support the abundant marine life. Visibility is typically excellent, often exceeding 30 meters (100 feet), but can vary slightly with local conditions and particulate matter. Water temperatures are consistently warm, between 27-30°C (82-85°F), meaning thermoclines are not a concern at typical dive depths. Divers can anticipate comfortable conditions, allowing for extended bottom times and relaxed exploration of the reef's intricate details.

Marine life & sighting chances

Nudibranchs

occasional

Pygmy seahorses

occasional

Barracuda

occasional

Sharks

occasional

Turtles

occasional

Anemonefish

common

Porcelain crabs

occasional

Reef fish

common

Invertebrates

common

Dive profile & how the dive runs

A dive at Custom House Reef typically begins with a boat entry, allowing divers to descend directly onto the vibrant coral gardens. The dive progresses along the reef, where you can explore various hard coral formations and search for macro life tucked within the crevices. Depths can vary, but much of the diverse marine life is accessible in shallower sections, allowing for extended bottom times. The route often involves a gentle drift along the reef, guided by the mild currents, allowing for a relaxed pace of observation. Divers will eventually turn back or surface at a designated point where the boat will pick them up. The safety stop is typically conducted at 5 meters in the shallower, coral-rich areas, offering a final opportunity to enjoy the reef's beauty.

Underwater photography

Custom House Reef is an excellent site for underwater photography, particularly macro and wide-angle shots of its diverse reef. For macro enthusiasts, a dedicated macro lens will be invaluable for capturing the intricate details of nudibranchs, pygmy seahorses, and various invertebrates. Patience and a keen eye are essential to spot these smaller subjects amidst the corals. Wide-angle lenses can be used to showcase the expansive hard coral formations and schools of reef fish. Due to generally mild currents, stability for photography is usually good, but maintaining excellent buoyancy control is always paramount to protect the delicate corals. Strobes are highly recommended to bring out the vibrant colors of the reef and its inhabitants.

Combine with nearby dive sites

• Mirror Pond

  A unique cavern dive with dramatic light penetration.

• Leru Cut

  A famous passage cut deep into an island, known for its dramatic light effects.

• Toa Maru

  A renowned WWII shipwreck, offering historical exploration and abundant marine life.

• Mbili Passage

  Offers a mix of reef diving and potential for pelagic encounters.

• Munda - Shark Point

  A signature site with strong currents and frequent shark encounters.

Getting there & logistics

Access to Custom House Reef typically begins with arrival at Honiara International Airport (HIR) on Guadalcanal, the main international gateway to the Solomon Islands. From Honiara, divers often take domestic flights to Munda or Gizo in the Western Province, which serve as primary diving hubs. Many liveaboards operate out of these areas, offering comprehensive itineraries that often include Custom House Reef alongside other renowned sites. Liveaboard trips typically range from 7 to 10 days, covering multiple dive locations. Transfers from the airport to the liveaboard departure point are usually arranged by the dive operator. There are generally no specific dive site fees beyond the costs included in standard dive packages.

Safety & environment

Diving in the remote Solomon Islands, including Custom House Reef, requires a strong emphasis on diver self-sufficiency and awareness. The nearest recompression chamber is typically located in Australia, highlighting the importance of cautious diving practices. Divers should always carry comprehensive dive insurance that covers emergency evacuation and medical treatment. Site-specific hazards are minimal due to generally mild currents, but excellent buoyancy control is crucial to protect the pristine coral formations. Always follow your dive guide's instructions and maintain a respectful distance from marine life. Emergency evacuation can be challenging due to the remote nature of the islands, making prevention and preparedness key.

Who it suits — and who it doesn't

FAQ

Custom House Reef FAQ

Liveaboards diving Custom House Reef

These liveaboards may visit Custom House Reef 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

$561/day

Pacific Master

Solomon Islands

20 guests30 m

$268/day