Dive Site: The Quarry

About The Quarry

Wongat Island, situated near Madang in Papua New Guinea, offers a compelling mix of historical intrigue and vibrant marine ecosystems. This area is notable for housing a significant World War II relic, a B-25 bomber, which intentionally ditched in a shallow strait between Wongat Island and the mainland. This preserved aircraft, with its crumpled nose and visible machine guns, has transformed into an artificial reef, inviting divers to explore its past as marine life thrives within its structure, including parrotfish grazing on corals and angelfish swimming through bomb bay doors. In addition to the bomber, the site features the "Henry Leith," a 33-meter coastal freighter scuttled for divers in the 1980s, resting at 20 meters on the island's western side. This wreck is completely overgrown with a diverse array of corals, such as black coral trees, soft corals, gorgonians, and sea whips. Its holds contain remnants of a truck, winches, and other equipment, providing ample opportunities for exploration. The area teems with marine life, including trevally, batfish, snappers, lionfish, and sweetlips, alongside smaller creatures like nudibranchs, shrimps, and longnose hawkfish. Dives around Wongat Island combine historical exploration with rich biodiversity, making it an appealing destination for both wreck enthusiasts and marine life observers. The dive sites are generally accessible, with the Henry Leith offering an easy dive suitable for many skill levels. Wrecks are found in calm, protected waters, ensuring excellent conditions for exploration and underwater photography, with depths varying from the shallow bomber to the 20-meter freighter. A typical dive lasts between 45 and 60 minutes, and the site is suitable for all diver levels. Your dive begins with a short boat ride to the sheltered site, followed by a giant stride entry and a calm descent towards the sandy slope where the bomber rests. You'll typically explore the plane's rear section first, moving along the fuselage to observe its intact structure, including the cockpit and machine guns.

Dive site facts: The Quarry

Depth

15–22 m

Current

No current

Entry

Shore / dayboat

Level

Beginner

Dive type

Wreck

Region / port

Papua New Guinea

Coordinates

6.3693° S, 149.4985° E

Conditions & Currents

The dive sites around Wongat Island, particularly near the B-25 bomber, are well-protected within the Madang Lagoon, resulting in typically mild to non-existent currents. This calm environment ensures a relaxed and safe diving experience, accommodating divers of all skill levels, including those new to wreck exploration. Excellent visibility is generally maintained due to the sheltered nature of the lagoon, allowing for unhurried exploration without concerns about drift or strong water movement. Entry and exit points are usually straightforward, making for comfortable surface intervals. Water temperatures range from 27 to 30°C, and visibility typically measures between 25 and 40 meters, enhancing the overall dive experience.

Liveaboards diving The Quarry

These liveaboards may visit The Quarry on selected itineraries — the exact dive sites depend on departure, weather and conditions.

Febrina

Papua New Guinea

12 guests22.25 m

$389/day

Oceania

Papua New Guinea

16 guests27 m

$333/day