Wakaya Wall – Namena Marine Reserve and Lomaiviti Group

30m Max

15-35m Vis

boat

Site Overview

Wakaya Wall is a pristine drop-off dive off Wakaya Island in the Lomaiviti Group, offering an exceptionally healthy reef wall with whitetip reef sharks, eagle rays, turtles, and huge gorgonian sea fans in a remote, uncrowded setting far from the busier dive sites of the main islands. The wall drops from approximately 5 metres to beyond 30 metres, its face covered in dense coral growth that reflects the pristine conditions maintained by the low human impact in this remote area. Whitetip reef sharks are encountered with remarkable frequency, often resting on sandy ledges in the deeper sections or patrolling the wall face in small groups. Eagle rays glide past the wall on occasion, their broad wingspans catching the current as they search for prey on the reef surface. Green turtles and hawksbill turtles feed among the coral formations, their presence indicating the health of the reef ecosystem. The gorgonian sea fans at Wakaya Wall are among the largest in the Lomaiviti Group, some exceeding 1.5 metres in diameter, their intricate lattice patterns creating dramatic silhouettes against the blue water. Soft corals in vibrant colours cover the wall face, pulsing with the current as they filter plankton. The remote location means that fish populations are undisturbed and approach divers with less caution than at more frequently dived sites. Schools of anthias and fusiliers surround the coral formations, adding colour and movement to the wall landscape. The wall is best dived as a drift, with the current carrying divers along the reef face at a comfortable pace.

Dive Briefing

"Divers enter from the boat and descend to the wall at approximately 10 to 15 metres depth. The pristine coral coverage is immediately apparent, with dense soft corals and gorgonians covering every surface. Whitetip reef sharks are commonly encountered resting on deeper ledges or patrolling the wall. Eagle rays may glide past in the blue water. Turtles feed among the coral formations. The guide leads the group along the wall face, pointing out the diverse marine life and the spectacular gorgonian fans. The drift follows the wall at varying depths, with the guide managing a multi-level profile. The shallower sections offer the best light for coral photography, while the deeper sections host larger gorgonians and resting sharks. Total bottom time is approximately 45 to 55 minutes. Safety stops are conducted on the DSMB above the wall. The boat collects divers at the exit point. The remote setting means the reef has experienced minimal diving pressure, resulting in exceptionally healthy coral communities and fish populations that show less avoidance behaviour than at frequently visited sites. Multiple passes along the wall at different depths reveal different aspects of the marine community and provide varied photographic opportunities."