Emperor Bilikiki Liveaboard

Emperor Bilikiki

Liveaboard · Solomon Islands

A historic steel-hulled icon for premier expeditions in the Solomon Islands.

20
Solomon Islands
38m
1966

About This Vessel

Emperor Bilikiki is a liveaboard cruising the Solomon Islands region. It hosts up to 20 divers on board.

The 38-meter Emperor Bilikiki navigates the Solomon Islands, built in 1966 and accommodating 20 guests for comprehensive dive expeditions. Scattered east of Papua New Guinea, the Solomon Islands form a double chain of volcanic landmasses and low-lying coral atolls, creating a frontier for divers. This geologically active region, lying within the Coral Triangle, is a complex of deep oceanic trench…

Upcoming Departures

Upcoming Departures

Onboard Amenities

Upper Observation Level
Outdoor Eating Area
Charging Ports for Devices
1:1 Staff-to-Guest Ratio
Large Teak Sun Deck
Non-Smoking Cabins
Private Boat Charters
Indoor Air-Conditioned Lounge
On-Deck Rinse Showers
Multinational Crew Members

Dining & Beverages

Buffet-Style Dining
International Western Cuisine
Open-Air Meal Service
Full-Board Catering
Local Indonesian Flavors
Premium Wine List
Assorted Beer Selection
Continuous Snack Availability
High-End Culinary Experience

A comprehensive full-board dining program is provided, featuring a mix of local Indonesian specialties and Western cuisine served in a buffet format. The ship offers all-day snacks and outdoor dining options, with specific provisions for vegan and vegetarian diets.

Dive Equipment & Setup

Dedicated Photography Station
Shaded Preparation Deck
Sidemount Diving Equipment Support
Camera-Specific Rinse Tubs
Professional Diving Tenders
Integrated Power for Cameras
Large Diving Platform
DIN Valve Compatibility
Photography Work Bench

Dive Area & Sites

The Solomon Islands offer wild, untouched diving in one of the Pacific's most remote and pristine marine environments, where vibrant reefs meet fascinating World War II history. The waters around Guadalcanal and the Florida Islands are scattered with sunken warships, aircraft, and landing craft from fierce Pacific battles, now transformed into artificial reefs teeming with life. Beyond the wrecks, divers discover dramatic drop-offs, current-swept passages, and healthy coral gardens hosting an incredible diversity of reef fish and invertebrates. Manta rays, grey reef sharks, and large schools of barracuda are regularly encountered, while the macro life includes pygmy seahorses, ornate ghost pipefish, and colorful nudibranchs. The relative isolation of the Solomons means uncrowded dive sites, pristine water conditions, and a genuine sense of exploration and discovery.

Important Information

What's Included

All fees (port, marine park, fuel surcharges, cabin tax) · Nitrox

Not Included & Local Fees

Costs for Port access and National Parks are already incorporated into the total reservation price. · Flights

Dive Insurance Required

All guests must hold valid dive accident insurance to participate in this trip. Proof of insurance must be provided before departure. If you do not have dive insurance, we can assist you in obtaining coverage.

Medical Form Required

A valid dive medical certificate is required for all guests on this vessel. The medical form must be signed by a licensed physician and confirm fitness for diving. Please upload your medical certificate when managing your booking.

Rental Gear

Complete Equipment Set (wetsuits excluded): Rates available upon inquiry · Decompression Computer: Rates available upon inquiry

Accommodation

Twin Cabins

Twin Cabins

Double and Bunk • Lower deck • 9 m²

10x
👥 2 Guestsair-conditioneden-suite bathroomsen-suite with shower

Booking & Travel FAQ

How does the booking process work?

Select a cabin and departure on Emperor Bilikiki, and we send a real-time inquiry to the operator. After availability is confirmed, you receive a booking confirmation by email and secure your spot with a deposit.

When do I need to pay?

A deposit (usually 25-35%) is due upon confirmation. The remaining balance is typically due 4-8 weeks before departure, depending on the operator.

What documents will I receive?

After your final payment, you'll receive a travel voucher with meeting point, embarkation time, airport transfer details, packing tips, and your full itinerary.

How do I get to the boat?

Most liveaboards depart from a designated marina. Many operators offer airport pickup and transfers — details are in your voucher. We recommend arriving one day before departure.

What certifications do I need?

A valid dive certification (e.g. PADI Open Water), dive insurance, and a valid passport. Some destinations require additional permits or visas — we inform you during booking.

Can I cancel or change my booking?

Cancellation terms vary by operator and are in your confirmation. Generally, the earlier you cancel the higher the refund. Changes depend on availability — contact us as soon as possible.

Vessel Technical Overview

Vessel Specifications

Year built1966
Year renovated2013
Length38 m / 124.67 feet
Beam7.3 m / 23.95 feet
Cruising speed9 knots
Top speed11 knots
Max guests20
Number of cabins10
Number of bathrooms10
Engines350 HP 3406 Turbo Charged Caterpillar Diesel
StabilizerSteel hull stability
Voltage415 V three-phase, 240 V single-phase (Australian), 110 V charging (US)
Freshwater makerYes
Water capacity5,000 litres/day production
Fuel capacity12000 ltrs
Tenders2 support skiffs

Navigation & Safety Systems

Distress Signal Flares
Automatic Bilge Sensors
Standard First Aid Supplies
Individual Life Vests
GPS Navigation Technology
Staff Trained in Emergency Care
Cellular and Satellite Connectivity
Emergency Medical Oxygen
Deployable Life Rafts
Digital Sonar Equipment
Powerful Night Searchlight
Electronic Fish Tracking
Fire Suppression and Smoke Alarms
VHF, DSC, and SSB Radio Gear
Navigational Radar

What guests say online

4.8 / 5(134 reviews)
How is this overall rating calculated?

The headline score is the simple average of the category scores shown below (Boat, Crew, Value, Diving, Dive sites, etc.), each weighted equally. The review count reflects how many source reviews back the underlying analysis. When no category breakdown is available for a vessel, the headline falls back to the guest-weighted average across source platforms.

Guests consistently rate the Emperor Bilikiki among the finest liveaboards globally. It is highly praised for its exceptional diving experiences, comfortable environment, and outstanding crew and food, making it a top choice in the Solomon Islands.

Boat4.7
Crew4.9
Food4.8
Value4.5
Diving4.9
Comfort4.6
Most praised
  • +Consistently rated among the finest liveaboards
  • +Exceptional boat, crew, food and diving
  • +Very comfortable and organized
  • +Offers absolute solitude while diving

Based on approximately 134 reviews. Aggregated rating based on reviews from multiple independent dive travel and operator platforms as well as on ratings from our customers. Public statements from diving forums and community platforms may also be incorporated as text into the highlighted praises and critiques. Ratings are independently calculated and are not affiliated with or endorsed by the source platforms.

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