Dive Site: Cyclone Wall

About Cyclone Wall

Cyclone Wall is a renowned dive site located in Oro Province, near the remote town of Tufi, Papua New Guinea. Recognized as a premier wall diving destination, it is among the must-visit sites in the Tufi area. This dive offers a dramatic vertical drop-off, making it a classic example of exceptional wall diving within a region celebrated for its pristine coral reefs and rich marine biodiversity. The topography of Cyclone Wall is characterized by a sheer vertical face that begins at a shallow depth of 7 meters and plunges dramatically past 40 meters, eventually sloping out of sight. At different depth bands, diverse marine life and coral formations are observed. Around 20 meters, the wall is covered with expansive anemone colonies, interspersed with large gorgonian fans and sizable barrel sponges. Ascending to 10 meters, hard and soft corals become dominant, forming a vibrant habitat. Closer to the surface at 7 meters, large brain corals extend upwards, and this shallower zone is often frequented by Hawksbill and Green turtles, creating a serene environment for safety stops. The site boasts a variety of marine life, including numerous reef fish, Triggerfish, and Anthias, particularly in the mid-depth coral zones. Reef sharks and Scorpionfish are also regularly seen. Nudibranchs are a common sight, with one report mentioning multiple large funeral joruna. Although specific seasonality for marine life is not detailed, the site is known for year-round diving. Practical considerations include a typical boat ride of about an hour from Tufi Resort, with conditions that can sometimes be choppy. Dives are generally conducted in clear water, with visibility often exceeding 30 meters, though temperatures can sometimes be cooler, warranting a 5mm wetsuit in winter months.