Snorkelling in Papua New Guinea – The Hidden Underwater Wonderland

If you picture Papua New Guinea as a land of rugged mountains, ancient tribes, and jungle adventures — you’re absolutely right. But that’s just the beginning. Many of PNG’s greatest treasures are just below the water’s surface.

In the warm, clear waters of the Pacific Ocean, PNG’s coral reefs are up there with some of the most biodiverse on the planet. It’s a snorkellers dream — vibrant coral gardens, tropical fish in every colour, and waters so clear that visibility stretches for up to 60 metres.

Unlike other snorkelling destinations in the world, PNG’s reefs are untouched, remote, and filled with a bustling marine ecosystem just waiting to be explored. Here’s why it should be next on your bucket list.

Why snorkel in Papua New Guinea?

Papua New Guinea is a renowned, world-class scuba diving destination — but you don’t need a PADI license to explore its underwater wonders. Snorkelling lets you experience:

• Beautiful coral reefs – bursting with life, PNG’s reefs remain mostly untouched by mass tourism.
  
• Warm, crystal-clear waters – the ocean stays a warm 26–30°C all year-round.
  
• Incredible biodiversity – there’s more than 2,000 species of fish and 600 species of coral.
  
• WWII wrecks – snorkel over sunken planes, tanks, and ships, some sitting just 2–6 metres deep, making them incredibly accessible and perfect for beginners.
  
• Shelf drops and reef walls – dramatic underwater cliffs are teeming with marine life.
  
• Rich local culture – many snorkelling spots are close to traditional villages where you can immerse yourself in unique customs and stories.
  

Snorkelling spots in Papua New Guinea – Rabaul

Rabaul is one of PNG’s most spectacular snorkelling destinations. Here, history and nature collide — offering snorkellers the rare opportunity to glide over a submerged WWII tank, now home to colourful marine life.

Visibility here is amazing, ranging from 30 to 60 metres, with vibrant coral gardens, and curious sea creatures. The shelf drops around Rabaul are busy with marine life, while many wrecks lie in shallow water (2–6 metres deep), making them perfect for snorkelling and underwater photography.

Another must-do? Swimming with spinner dolphins — a magical, bucket list moment that’s hard to beat. 

With stunning coral, dramatic topography, and historical wrecks, Rabaul delivers some of the best snorkelling in Papua New Guinea.

What to Expect When Snorkelling in PNG

• Incredible visibility – especially between May and November (the dry season), expect visibility ranging from 20–60 metres.
  
• Marine diversity – from sea turtles and reef sharks to anemone fish, parrotfish, and even dugongs.
  
• Easy access – most snorkelling sites are just a short boat ride from the shore.
  
• Comfortable water temperatures – at 26–30°C, no wetsuit needed.
  

Tips for an Unforgettable Snorkelling Experience

• Respect the reef – don’t touch the coral or marine life so you can help to preserve the delicate ecosystem.
  
• Pack an underwater camera – so you can capture the surreal beauty below the surface.
  
• Use reef-safe sunscreen – protect your skin and the reef at the same time.
  
• Snorkel with a local guide – South Sea Horizons’ experienced local guides know where to find the best (and most secluded) snorkelling spots.
  

Snorkelling with South Sea Horizons

At South Sea Horizons, we believe snorkelling in PNG is one of the most underrated adventures in the world. We take small groups to beautiful, remote reefs — places where you’ll feel like you’ve stumbled upon a secret underwater paradise.

Whether you’re snorkelling over coral gardens, floating above shallow WWII wrecks, or sharing the water with spinner dolphins, PNG’s underwater world will leave you speechless.

Contact us today and let’s plan your next snorkelling adventure.