Oceania

Papua New Guinea, nestled within the heart of the Coral Triangle, stands as a beacon of marine biodiversity, boasting some of the planet's most pristine and vibrant reef ecosystems. This remote paradise offers an unparalleled underwater experience, characterized by an astonishing variety of fish, a diverse array of shark species including silky and hammerheads, and frequent encounters with playful dolphins. Occasional sightings of majestic orcas, whale sharks, and pilot whales further enrich the diving landscape. Exploring this extraordinary region, the Oceania catamaran provides a luxurious and intimate base for discovering its underwater wonders, with itineraries expertly tailored to seasonal changes and weather patterns to ensure optimal diving conditions. The diving experience aboard Oceania is meticulously designed for both comfort and efficiency. With a spacious dive deck located at the stern, divers benefit from individual storage areas for their gear, a dedicated camera table for underwater photographers, and convenient onboard showers and bathrooms. Getting to and from the dive sites is effortless thanks to the accompanying dive tenders, ensuring a smooth transition into the water. The vessel offers Nitrox for extended bottom times, catering to experienced divers eager to maximize their exploration. Guided dives are led by a dedicated local and international crew, ensuring safety and an insightful journey through Papua New Guinea's captivating underwater world. Life on board the Oceania is characterized by comfort and thoughtful amenities. The catamaran accommodates up to 16 guests across 8 well-appointed, air-conditioned staterooms, each featuring a private en-suite bathroom, fresh towels daily, ample storage, and a hairdryer. Large windows offer breathtaking ocean views from every cabin. Social spaces are plentiful, including an inviting indoor salon and dining room on the main deck, both air-conditioned for guest comfort. Outdoors, a lounge and BBQ area provide a relaxed setting for evening gatherings, while the upper deck offers ample space for sunbathing and al-fresco dining, perfect for unwinding after a day of diving. Culinary delights are a highlight of the Oceania experience, with a full-board meal plan that includes all meals, snacks throughout the day, and complimentary wine with dinner. The menu features a blend of Western and local dishes, served buffet-style, ensuring a diverse and satisfying dining experience. The crew is attentive to guest needs, offering vegetarian and vegan options upon request, and striving to accommodate other dietary requirements such as religious beliefs or food allergies. The galley staff are committed to providing delicious and nourishing meals, though the remote location can sometimes present challenges in sourcing a wide variety of fresh produce. Built in 2001 and renovated in 2018, the Oceania is a 27-meter catamaran with a beam of 9 meters, providing a stable and spacious platform for its 16 guests. Powered by Caterpillar 3306 Turbo Diesels, she cruises comfortably at 13 knots, with a top speed of 13 knots. The vessel is well-equipped with 1600 liters of water capacity and 13000 liters of fuel capacity, complemented by a freshwater maker. Her design, with 8 cabins and 9 bathrooms, ensures privacy and comfort for all onboard. Safety is paramount, with a comprehensive suite of navigation and safety equipment. Embarkation for Oceania trips typically occurs from locations accessible to Walindi Resort, which serves as her base. Guests should plan their travel to accommodate transfers to the departure point. The best season for diving in Papua New Guinea varies by region, but Oceania's itineraries are designed to follow optimal conditions, ensuring incredible encounters year-round. This vessel is ideally suited for adventurous divers seeking a blend of luxury, comfort, and exceptional diving in one of the world's most biodiverse marine environments.