Critter Spotter

Located in Havannah Harbour on the island of Efate, Critter Spotter is a boutique dive operation designed for divers who want to focus on the finer details of the ocean. Rather than large-scale group excursions, the centre prioritises personalised encounters with the diverse marine life that calls these reefs home.

The operation is uniquely positioned directly on the shoreline, allowing you to access the water immediately from the property. This setup provides a relaxed, intimate environment for those looking to explore the vibrant reef flats and unique habitats of Vanuatu.

The team is led by John Warmington, a professional underwater photographer, and Sandra Kaye, a Divemaster and videographer. This expertise means that the centre is specifically geared towards divers who want to improve their underwater imagery or simply find the smaller, more elusive species.

All instruction and guiding are conducted in English. While the centre is a PADI affiliated operation, it does not offer diver training courses; instead, it focuses exclusively on guided exploration for already qualified divers.

The centre does not provide scuba diving certification courses. Instead, they specialise in technical skill development through underwater photography workshops. These sessions cover both macro and wide-angle techniques and can be booked for individuals or small groups.

The reefs around Havannah Harbour are rich with diverse life, from large pelagics to delicate invertebrates. You will find various species of sea turtles (Cheloniidae), including Hawksbill turtle and Green sea turtle, alongside rays (Batoidea) and octopus (Octopoda) patrolling the bottom.

For those interested in the reef structure, the area is home to soft coral (Alcyonacea), gorgonian sea fans, and large tridacna clams. You can also observe various anemones, crinoids, and schooling fish such as fusiliers and damselfish (Pomacentridae).

Macro enthusiasts will find plenty to document, with a high density of nudibranch (Chromodoris willani) and various shrimp (Caridea) tucked into the reef. The area is particularly noted for its scorpionfish, including leaf scorpionfish and devil scorpionfish, as well as crocodilefish (Cymbacephalus beauforti) and flatworms.

Other common residents include moray eels (Muraenidae), clownfish, angelfish, butterflyfish (Chaetodon), and surgeonfish. You may also spot pufferfish, lionfish, and various species of goby (Gobiidae) amongst the reef flat.