A 20 Havoc Wreck, Port Moresby: Diving a WWII Bomber

Dropping onto the A 20 Havoc, you'll find the complete airframe of a WWII American bomber resting on a sand bottom. The wreck lies adjacent to a shallow reef in Bootless Bay, near Port Moresby. Its metallic skin, now encrusted, retains its form, offering a clear outline of the cockpit, wings, and tail section. The bomber sits upright, giving the impression it could still take flight, a silent testament to its past.

The dive profile here is straightforward, allowing for a thorough exploration of the aircraft. The shallowest part of the wreck begins at 5 metres, extending down to its deepest point at 18 metres. This depth range makes it accessible for extended bottom times, giving you ample opportunity to inspect the details of the fuselage. The surrounding soft, sandy bottom ensures that visibility remains focused on the wreck itself, with minimal particulate disturbance.

While the wreck is the primary focus, the site offers more as you ascend. The safety stop zones transform into vibrant hard coral gardens, providing a stark contrast to the historical relic below. These flourishing reefs are home to various reef fish, adding a layer of natural beauty to the dive. This combination of a historical wreck and a living reef makes the A 20 Havoc a distinctive dive in the Port Moresby area.

Access to the A 20 Havoc is typically by boat from Loloata Island Resort or its jetty in Bootless Bay. The site is approximately one nautical mile from the Loloata jetty, a short transfer from Port Moresby. While the current is generally manageable, conditions can be variable. Timing your dive for the morning or high tide is often recommended to ensure the most comfortable experience, rather than needing to manage strong currents.