Matrix

4.5·Intermediate·Kavieng, Kavieng, Papua New Guinea

Illustrative image, not this exact site

Matrix

4.5Intermediate·Kavieng, Kavieng, Papua New Guinea

Illustrative image, not this exact site

Best for intermediate divers, 15-35m, boat entry, moderate current.

About This Site

Matrix is a reef, wall, and drift dive site located off Kavieng, Papua New Guinea. Divers explore a depth range of 15 to 35 metres, with an average depth of 20 metres. The site features moderate currents, though drift sections can move quickly, requiring strong buoyancy control and situational awareness. Visibility typically ranges from 10 to 30 metres. Access is by boat only, and divers should account for a shore break at the entry point. Sharks are a known presence at this site. Night diving is available, offering a different perspective of the reef structure. Species recorded around this area include wrasses, elongate clams, flamingo tongues, snails, and sea cucumbers.

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-2.67433, 150.62033

Local Tips

Time your dive to coincide with an incoming current to ride the drift sections cleanly along the wall. Check locally on current forecasts before booking your boat, as conditions can shift quickly at this site.

Access

Accessible by boat from Lissenung Island or Kavieng.

Hazards

Strong Current
Surf

Wildlife Sightings

Recorded at this site

Nurse Shark

Get to know this site

Depth

15-35m

Visibility

10-30m

Skill Level

Intermediate

Entry

Boat

Boat required

Water Temp

30°C

Current

Moderate

Typical Dive

60 min

Dive sites nearby

Lemus Island

Lemus Island, located in the Kavieng channel system, offers consistent drift diving along a reef structure ranging from 12 to 25 metres in depth. Divers typically experience mild currents and visibility between 10 and 30 metres, with water temperatures remaining steady at 30°C. The site is suitable for intermediate divers, though sharp coral presents a hazard requiring careful buoyancy control. Boat entry is required for all dives, which average 50 minutes. Night diving is available, offering a different perspective of the reef. Divers should be aware of potential surge and strong currents, and a reef hook is recommended for maintaining position without contacting the coral.

Lissenung Island Reef

(3.5)

Lissenung Island Reef in Kavieng, Papua New Guinea, is a shallow reef system ranging from 6 to 10 metres in depth. The site offers visibility between 20 and 40 metres and a consistent water temperature of 30C. Divers can access the reef via shore or boat, though caution is required due to potential surge, swell, and strong currents. Marine life recorded here includes wrasses, elongate clams, and various butterflyfish species such as the saddled, Pacific doublesaddle, vagabond, and bluelashed. Other sightings include ocellaris anemonefish, maroon clownfish, moorish idols, groupers, and crab-eye gobies. The site features full facilities, including equipment rental and guided tours, and supports night diving.

Albatross Passage

(4.5)

Albatross Passage is a dynamic drift dive located in Kavieng, Papua New Guinea, defined by its strong currents. The site features a combination of reef and wall topography, with depths ranging from 10 to 30 metres. Visibility typically fluctuates between 10 and 30 metres. Due to the powerful water movement, this site is strictly for intermediate divers and requires boat access. Divers must be comfortable with current-swept conditions and potential shark encounters. An SMB is essential for all divers, and thorough pre-dive briefings regarding current direction are necessary before entry. Water temperatures remain a consistent 30 degrees Celsius throughout the year.

Frequently asked questions

Species recorded around this area include wrasses, elongate clams, flamingo tongues, snails, and sea cucumbers. Sharks are also a known presence at this site.

No, this site is rated for intermediate divers due to the moderate to strong currents and the requirement for good buoyancy control.

The site ranges from 15 to 35 metres, with an average depth of 20 metres.

This is a boat-only dive site. Divers must also account for a shore break at the entry point.

The site is primarily a dive location with depths starting at 15 metres and significant currents, making it unsuitable for snorkelling.

Diving at Matrix in Kavieng requires the following certifications: Open Water. Always dive within your training limits.

A rashguard or 2mm shorty is recommended for diving at Matrix in Kavieng. Water temperatures range from 30°C to 30°C.

Expect moderate currents at Matrix in Kavieng. Good buoyancy control and some drift diving experience is helpful.

Visibility at Matrix in Kavieng typically ranges from 10 metres to 30 metres. Conditions vary with weather, tides, and seasons.