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Diving on the Solomons Master liveaboard
The Solomon Islands is one of the most biodiverse marine regions in the world, where divers may see a wide variety of marine life, including sharks, rays, turtles, and dolphins.
Diving conditions are excellent, with water temperatures of 81 to 88 F (27 to 31 C), visibility of 50 to 90 feet (15 to 30 m), and a wide variety of dive sites. Divers can expect a mix of wall dives, drift dives, shallow reefs, and wrecks. Currents can be strong in some areas, but most dive sites are suitable for all levels of experience.
The Solomons Master offers a variety of itineraries, ranging from 7 to 10 nights, and typically departing from and returning to the capital city of Honiara. Guests can expect to do up to four dives a day, including several night dives. The minimum qualification required is Advanced Open Water, though some itineraries may require additional certifications, such as nitrox or deep diver certification.
With over 500 WWII shipwrecks, the Solomons Islands is a wreck diver’s paradise. The Solomons Master typically visits the most popular wrecks, such as the Toa Maru, the Hirokawa Maru, and the Tulagi Maru.
Particularly good for photographers, the boat has a dedicated photo area with charging stations, rinse tanks, and plenty of space to edit. The dive guides are also experienced underwater photographers and can help guests get the best shots. The most popular types of photography are macro, wide-angle, and wreck.
The Solomons Master uses a mixture of platform and tender diving, with tenders used in stronger currents or when the dive site is too far away from the boat. The Solomons Master is most suited for experienced divers who are interested in wreck diving, where the rewards are great.
Highlights:
- Spectacular healthy reefs and diverse marine life
- A wreck-diver’s paradise
- The opportunity to encounter large pelagics such as sharks, rays and whales
- Three dive guides on board with all dives guided
Onboard the Solomons Master
The Solomons Master can accommodate up to 16 guests in eight en-suite, air-conditioned cabins. A spacious dive deck and 12 excellent crew members round out the highlights. The boat offers a variety of itineraries to choose from, so guests can find a trip that fits their budget and interests.
All eight cabins are located on the lower deck. Three are classic twin cabins; four are premium twin/double cabins, and there’s one superior double cabin. The salon and dining area on the main deck feature a large, comfortable seating area, a TV, stereo system, and a selection of books and games. Decor on the Solomons Master was refreshed in early 2025 as part of an extensive refit.
Outside, there’s a large sundeck with loungers, as well as a shaded area with more seating. The covered area on the main deck offers shady tables and chairs, as well as a bar. There is a small seating area on the bow of the boat, as well as a seating area on the stern.
The dive deck offers plenty of room for divers to gear up. You’ll find individual gear stations, plenty of under-bench storage, dedicated rinse tanks, and a freshwater shower. Further, the boat can cater to technical and rebreather divers.There is also a camera table where photographers can set up their equipment.
Highlights:
- Comfortable cabins and public areas
- Lots of places to relax between dives
- Excellent helpful, friendly and safety-conscious crew
- Facilities for technical and rebreather divers
Dining onboard the Solomons Master
The Solomons Master serves three buffet-style meals daily, as well as a selection of snacks throughout the day. The food is a mixture of local and western cuisine, and special dietary requirements can be catered for with advance notice.
Soft drinks, tea, and coffee are included in the trip price. Beer, wine, and other alcoholic beverages are available for purchase. Overall, the food on the Solomons Master is high quality and varied. There is something for everyone to enjoy, and the chefs are happy to cater for special dietary requirements.
Highlights:
- Special diets catered for with prior notice
- Excellent quality food
Things we like:
- Spectacular wreck diving
- Large pelagics and incredible biodiversity
- Rebreather and tech diver-friendly
- Unspoiled dive sites
Things we don't like:
- Nitrox is available but costs extra
- Marine park and port fees cost extra
Key Facts
| Year Built | 1972 |
| Max Divers | 16 |
| Price Range | Luxury |
| Trip Length | 5-7 Nights |
| Internet | Yes ($) |
| Nitrox | Yes ($) |
| Equipment Rental | Yes ($) |
| Camera Station | Yes |
| Air Conditioning | Yes |
| Min. Logged Dives | No minimum |
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