Diving atMV Henry Bonnaud (Vanuatu)
MV Henry Bonnaud presents a captivating wreck dive off Espiritu Santo, Vanuatu. This site descends to a maximum depth of 45 m / 147 ft, appealing to divers with Advanced Open Water and Wreck Diver certifications. It's an ocean, reef, and sandy-bottom wreck, creating a diverse underwater landscape. Visibility frequently exceeds 30 m / 100 ft, allowing for clear exploration of the vessel's structure and the vibrant marine growth it supports.
Tonight's objective overview for MV Henry Bonnaud shows an air temperature of 29.1°C. The measured surface conditions include wave heights around 0.5m. This environmental data is logged for the close of the day.
Dive Site Coordinates
-15.5871, 167.2429
Dive Site Characteristics
Key Dive Site Facts
Dive Site Overview
Resting off Espiritu Santo, Vanuatu, the MV Henry Bonnaud, a former local island trader, now serves as a prominent dive site. Deliberately scuttled in the 1980s, this vessel was transformed into a thriving artificial reef, creating an intriguing blend of maritime history and biological diversity.
Divers exploring the site discover a wreck that has become integral to the local ecosystem, providing shelter and foraging grounds for various species. Its presence contributes to the rich diving landscape of Espiritu Santo, often recommended alongside other notable wrecks like the President Coolidge. With its depth reaching up to 45 meters, sections are accessible across multiple experience levels, including many intriguing areas for Advanced Open Water divers.
Excellent visibility, often surpassing 30 meters, frequently enhances appreciation of its intricate structure and surrounding sandy bottom and reef environments. A distinct and well-preserved attraction for divers, this purpose-sunk wreck stands apart from accidental sinkings, providing a stable, accessible structure for underwater discovery.
Many consider it a particularly amazing night dive experience, adding another dimension to its appeal for those looking to explore its nocturnal inhabitants and hidden details.
Best Time to Dive
Optimal diving conditions for the MV Henry Bonnaud typically align with Vanuatu's drier and cooler season, which spans from May to November. During these months, the average air temperature hovers between 24.5-26.5°C / 76-80°F, creating comfortable surface conditions. Rainfall is significantly lower, often dropping to 3-5 mm / 0.1-0.2 inches, minimizing runoff that could temporarily affect coastal visibility. While specific water temperature data for the site isn't consistently reported, tropical waters in this region generally maintain a warm 25-29°C / 77-84°F year-round. Wave heights are usually moderate, averaging under 1 meter, and winds range from 19-22 km/h / 12-14 mph, offering generally calm boat rides to the site. The dive score remains consistently 'Good' throughout the entire year, suggesting favorable conditions are frequently encountered, but these months tend to be marginally better for overall comfort and clearest waters.
Climate Historical Averages
Monthly records compiled from satellite and marine observation nodes over the last 3 years. Data provided by Open-Meteo and MET Norway.
Dive Experience & Conditions
Diving the MV Henry Bonnaud immerses you in a dynamic underwater environment, where clear waters define the experience. Visibility at the site is consistently reported at over 30 m / 100 ft, making for expansive views of the wreck and its immediate surroundings. Such clarity allows divers to appreciate the vessel's scale and the detailed marine growth colonizing its surfaces. Combining wreck exploration with vibrant reef and sandy bottom areas, the site appeals to a broad range of interests. Being a boat entry dive, access is typically straightforward, leading directly to the heart of the site. While the wreck descends to 45 meters, many intriguing sections are accessible at shallower depths, catering to both Advanced and Deep Diver levels. Currents vary, but generally present manageable conditions, allowing for a relaxed exploration pace.
Dive Difficulty & Safety Guidelines
Approaching the MV Henry Bonnaud requires careful planning, particularly given its descent to 45 meters. Divers should hold appropriate certifications, such as Advanced Open Water, Deep Diver, and ideally Wreck Diver, to safely navigate and penetrate sections of the vessel. Always adhere to no-decompression limits or plan technical dives with appropriate gas mixes and decompression stops. It's crucial to carry a dive computer and a torch for interior exploration, even with good visibility. Buoyancy control is paramount to prevent disturbing silt and preserving the wreck's integrity. Never enter confined spaces without proper training and equipment. Diving with an experienced local guide is always recommended; they can point out specific features and ensure a safe, enjoyable experience.
Recommended Equipment
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Verified equipment recommendations for this dive site are being reviewed and may be added as additional source checks are completed.
Recommended Dive Suit
Dive skin or rash guard is widely used for recreational dives in waters of this temperature. A hood or vest is suggested for sensitive divers due to surface winds. Water conditions at MV Henry Bonnaud are currently measured at approximately 30°C (86°F). Surface air temperatures are resting at 29°C (84°F).
The coming days appear slightly cooler according to the latest forecast. Cooler days are ahead; you might want a warmer option for later in the week. Some divers bring an extra layer for surface intervals between dives.
Water temperatures can occasionally shift throughout the day depending on currents and depth layers.
Conditions last reviewed: 18:00 using the latest environmental data.
Dive Logistics & Preparation
Hyperbaric Chamber
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Entry Requirements
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Marine Life at MV Henry Bonnaud
Evolving into a vibrant habitat, MV Henry Bonnaud attracts a diverse range of marine life. Divers frequently encounter sharks patrolling the deeper sections and curious turtles navigating the wreck's structure. Dolphins and whales are also sighted in the surrounding ocean, though less consistently directly at the wreck site. Vessel surfaces are encrusted with corals and sponges, providing shelter for numerous reef fish species. Look closely for smaller creatures hiding within the nooks and crannies, adding to the site's rich biodiversity.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What certification level is required for the MV Henry Bonnaud?
Advanced Open Water Diver is a good starting point for this site. PADI Deep Diver and Wreck Diver certifications are highly recommended for full exploration, especially of deeper sections and any planned interior penetration.
What kind of visibility can I expect at the MV Henry Bonnaud?
Visibility at the site is frequently excellent, often over 30 meters. This clear water greatly enhances the view of the wreck and the surrounding reef and sandy bottom areas.
Is MV Henry Bonnaud suitable for night diving?
Yes, the MV Henry Bonnaud is considered a particularly amazing night dive. Exploring the wreck after dark often reveals different marine behaviors and a unique perspective on the ship's structure.
Are there other significant dive sites near MV Henry Bonnaud?
Espiritu Santo is home to other notable wrecks, including the massive President Coolidge and the unique Million Dollar Point. These sites offer a variety of dive experiences for extended trips in the region.
What types of marine life might I see here?
Common sightings at the MV Henry Bonnaud include sharks and turtles, often seen around the wreck. In the wider ocean area, dolphins and whales can also be observed, adding to the potential marine encounters.
How is access to the MV Henry Bonnaud dive site?
Access to the MV Henry Bonnaud is exclusively by boat. Local dive operators in Espiritu Santo regularly arrange trips to the wreck, typically involving a short boat ride.
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Around This Area
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