One of the richest reefs on Earth
Kimbe Bay lies in the Coral Triangle, the global centre of marine life. Scientists have counted around 860 kinds of reef fish and 400 kinds of coral here: more than 60 percent of all the coral species of the Indo-Pacific. Sperm whales, orcas, spinner dolphins and dugongs share the bay.
Reefs looked after by their owners
In Papua New Guinea most reefs belong to local clans. Around Kimbe Bay, villages run eight locally managed marine protected areas, which have helped keep dynamite fishing out. The local group Mahonia Na Dari, founded in 1997, teaches children to care for the reef. Diving here is possible because landowners agree to it, so reef fees and good manners matter.
Where the boats go
Liveaboard trips usually run for seven to ten nights from Walindi, on the shore of the bay. Besides Kimbe Bay itself, they head out to the Fathers Reefs and the Witu (Vitu) Islands, with seamounts such as Bradford Reef and night dives at sites like Leslie's Knob. Water is warm, around 28 to 31°C.
Questions and answers
Where is Kimbe Bay?
Kimbe Bay is on the north coast of New Britain in West New Britain Province, Papua New Guinea, between the Willaumez Peninsula and Cape Tokoro.
How long are Kimbe Bay liveaboard trips?
Most trips run seven to ten nights from Walindi and can include Kimbe Bay, the Fathers Reefs and the Witu Islands.
How warm is the water in Kimbe Bay?
The water is warm year-round, around 28 to 31°C.