

Best for advanced divers, 12-18m, boat entry, strong current.
Arorangi Passage on the western coast of Rarotonga offers a demanding mix of drift, cave, and reef diving. Situated at depths between 12 and 18 metres, the site requires boat access and is suited for advanced divers capable of managing strong, unpredictable currents. The topography includes an overhead cave environment, necessitating precise buoyancy control. Visibility can reach 24 metres, though it varies. Due to active boat traffic, the use of an SMB is essential. Night diving is permitted with careful planning. Species recorded around this area include wrasses, butterflyfish, unicornfish, triggerfish, pufferfish, angelfish, moray eels, and grouper.
-21.23210, -159.83080
Current direction and strength through the passage can shift quickly, so brief your boat crew on your planned exit point before descending and agree on a pickup signal. An SMB is essential given the boat traffic.
Access is via boat. The operator launches from different locations depending on sea conditions.
Recorded at this site
Depth
12-18m
Visibility
Up to 24m
Skill Level
Advanced
Entry
Boat
Boat required
Water Temp
25-28°C
Current
Strong
Species recorded around this area include wrasses, threadfin butterflyfish, Pacific orange-spine unicornfish, lagoon triggerfish, pufferfish, emperor angelfish, giant moray, and lunartail grouper.
No, this site is intended for advanced divers due to the strong, unpredictable currents and the presence of an overhead cave environment.
The site features depths ranging from 12 to 18 metres.
Boat access is required for this site.
While the site is primarily used for diving, the activity is listed as both diving and snorkelling; however, the strong currents and overhead environments make it challenging.
Diving at Arorangi Passage in Rarotonga requires the following certifications: Open Water, Advanced. Always dive within your training limits.
Yes, equipment rental is available at or near Arorangi Passage in Rarotonga. Contact local dive operators for specific gear availability and prices.
A 3mm wetsuit is recommended for diving at Arorangi Passage in Rarotonga. Water temperatures range from 25°C to 28°C.
Divers at Arorangi Passage in Rarotonga should be aware of sharks. These encounters are generally rare and avoidable with proper awareness. Follow local safety guidance and maintain a respectful distance from all marine life.
Arorangi Passage in Rarotonga can have strong currents. Advanced experience with drift diving and current navigation is recommended.
Visibility at Arorangi Passage in Rarotonga can reach up to 24 metres. Conditions vary with weather, tides, and seasons.