Dive Sites in Cook Islands (Australasia)

The Cook Islands of the South Pacific have perfectly clear waters with gently sloping colourful reefs that dramatically drop off into the Pacific abyss.

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Dive Site Overview for Cook Islands

The Cook Islands make up 15 tropical islands in the centre of the Polynesian Triangle offering gorgeous sunshine, isolated beaches and totally clear waters.

The main islands of Rarotonga and Aitutaki cater for divers on their surrounding reef which gently slope to around 30m and then drops off steeply into the wild Pacific. The dramatic topography and vibrant reef dwellers make for amazing underwater photography.

The south side of Rarotonga has a shallow lagoon which canyon-like passages leading to the ocean. The north coast is more gently sloping with a larger array of corals. The east and west coasts are generally steeper with large boulders that make great exploring. There are a few wrecks around Rarotonga that have been damaged by recent cyclones but still make for pleasant diving and attract a variety of tropical fish.

Marine life around these islands includes sharks (especially white tips) mantas, turtles, Napoleon wrasse and hundreds of colourful reef species.

The government initiated a crown of thorn starfish culling project to prevent further destruction to the coral.

Diving conditions are all year round perfect for diving -visibility is fantastic ranging from 30-40m and the water temperature is 25C in July and 30C in December. Most diving is no deeper than 25m and within close proximity of the island.

NOTE: There is no decompression centre in the Cook Islands, any emergencies are flown in special low-flying planes to New Zealand which is an expensive exercise so diving insurance is a must!