Florida and Russell Islands
Solomons Master · Solomon Islands · 8D/7N
About this route
Your exploration of the Solomon Islands begins with a rich itinerary offering 22 dives across its pristine waters. You'll navigate through the alluring Florida Islands and the captivating Russell Islands, where each day unfolds a new subaquatic adventure. Expect thrilling dives along dramatic walls, vibrant pinnacles, and narrow channels teeming with life. Drift diving through currents might bring encounters with schooling pelagics, while protected bays offer tranquil opportunities to marvel at intricate coral gardens. The diverse topography ensures a variety of experiences, from seeking out macro treasures in sandy patches to observing larger marine fauna patrolling the reef edges. Each descent reveals the unique biodiversity of this incredible region, promising an immersive journey into the heart of its underwater realm.
Regions on this route
Day-by-day plan
Day 1: Embarkation in Honiara
Honiara, Guadalcanal
You will board the vessel in Honiara, the capital of the Solomon Islands. After settling into your cabin, you'll receive a comprehensive boat orientation and safety briefing from the crew. The boat will prepare for its overnight departure.
Good to know: No diving is scheduled for the day of embarkation.
Day 2: Check Dive and Florida Islands
Florida Islands
The diving adventure begins with a check dive in the morning before exploring the Florida Islands. This area is rich in WWII history, offering the chance to dive on sites like the impressively intact Japanese Mavis Seaplane. Other dives may include Twin Tunnels, a large seamount with vertical passages that open onto a sheer wall frequented by reef sharks.
Dive sites: Japanese Mavis Seaplane, Twin Tunnels
Good to know: The exact dive sites are chosen based on current conditions to ensure the best and safest experience.
Day 3: Florida Islands Mantas and Macro
Florida Islands
Experience an exciting drift dive at Devil's Highway, a channel where strong currents attract formations of feeding manta rays. The day may also include a visit to Maravagi Bay, a calm, protected site perfect for macro photography. Here you can search for critters like pipefish, demon stingers, and various nudibranchs.
Dive sites: Devil's Highway, Maravagi Bay
Day 4: Exploring the Russell Islands
Russell Islands
The journey continues to the volcanic Russell Islands, home to some of the Solomons' most famous dives. You'll have the chance to dive Leru Cut, a stunning crevasse that cuts deep into the island, creating incredible photo opportunities with sunbeams piercing the water. Dives may also take you to Mirror Pond, where you can search for pygmy seahorses in gorgonian fans on the outer wall.
Dive sites: Leru Cut, Mirror Pond
Good to know: At the back of Leru Cut, it's possible to surface and see the jungle canopy.
Day 5: Wrecks and Caverns of the Russells
Russell Islands
Delve into history at White Beach, an old US military supply base where dumped trucks, jeeps, and munitions now form an artificial reef. This site is a treasure trove for macro lovers and history buffs. Other potential sites include Custom Cave, known for its distinct halocline, and Bat Cave, a cavern where baby reef sharks often rest.
Dive sites: White Beach, Custom Cave, Bat Cave
Day 6: The Rich Reefs of Mary Island
Mary Island (Mborokua)
Spend the day diving around the uninhabited Mary Island, often referred to as the best dive of the trip. Its pristine hard coral reefs support an incredible biomass with massive schools of fish. Encounters with sharks, turtles, and large bumphead parrotfish are common, making it a truly memorable location.
Dive sites: Barracuda Point
Good to know: The vessel typically spends the entire day at this remote and fish-prolific island.
Day 7: Final Dives and Return to Port
Russell Islands / Guadalcanal
Enjoy the last two or three dives of the trip in the morning, possibly at a locally-protected site like Karumolun Point, featuring vibrant soft coral and schools of barracuda. In the afternoon, the boat begins its cruise back toward Honiara. This is the perfect time to rinse gear and share photos with fellow divers.
Dive sites: Karumolun Point
Good to know: Dives are planned to finish early to allow for the recommended 24-hour no-fly period before your flight.
Day 8: Disembarkation in Honiara
Honiara, Guadalcanal
Following breakfast on board, you will settle any accounts and bid farewell to the crew. You will then disembark in Honiara to continue your travels or head to the airport for your flight home.
Good to know: Disembarkation is usually around 8:00 AM.
Upcoming departures
- 2026-11-15 – 2026-11-22from 4,445 USDBook
- 2026-12-28 – 2027-01-04from 2,667 USDBook
- 2028-02-21 – 2028-02-28from 4,585 USDBook
- 2028-05-05 – 2028-05-12from 4,585 USDBook
- 2028-06-04 – 2028-06-11from 4,585 USDBook
- 2028-08-06 – 2028-08-13from 4,585 USDBook
- 2028-09-04 – 2028-09-11from 4,585 USDBook
- 2028-11-07 – 2028-11-14from 4,585 USDBook
- 2028-12-07 – 2028-12-14from 4,585 USDBook
All routes of this liveaboard
About the vessel
Solomons MasterSolomon Islands