Resorts
WALINDI PLANTATION RESORT
Walindi from the sea (Ric Steininger)
Walindi Plantation Resort, located beside Kimbe Bay on the north coast of New Britain, has been described as having “the best reef diving from a resort, anywhere in the world” and is widely considered to be the world’s premier diving resort! Enclosed by mighty volcanoes and majestic peaks towering above the dense lowland rainforest, Walindi Plantation Resort is set amidst a palm-oil plantation. Twelve comfortable fern-draped bungalows with en-suite bathrooms are set in the beautiful and well-tended tropical gardens of this 500 acre plantation and each has its own magnificent sea views across Kimbe Bay. The pleasant Plantation House Rooms are situated in the main building and have en-suite bathrooms. They are slightly smaller than the Bungalows but are a great option for those on a budget. The swimming pool, kayaks and land tours provide alternative relaxation when the diving is over and the well-stocked bar is the place to meet fellow divers and exchange fishy tales in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere.
Three small dive boats whisk divers to the dive sites in about 40-60 minutes and, between dives, picnic lunches are taken aboard or on a small island. Up to three boat dives are available daily. Shore diving, including night dives, can be arranged locally. Nitrox is available. Walindi has an extraordinary reputation, particularly amongst underwater photographers.
Walindi Plantation Resort is reached by flying from Port Moresby to the small town of Hoskins on New Britain, followed by a road transfer of just under an hour to the shores of Kimbe Bay.
Stays can be of any length. Prices below relate to a stay of 7 nights.
Price from $1674 for 7 nights. Includes: full board accommodation (breakfast, lunch and dinner) on a twin/share basis in a Plantation House Room at Walindi Plantation Resort, including unlimited laundry service; 5 days of diving (2 boat dives daily, dive guide).
Supplement for 3 boat dives per diving day: $325
Airport transfers cost $80 return.
Reduction for non-divers.
Environmental & Safety fees are payable per diver/per day. The current rate is $6 per diver/per day, subject to change without notice. Note that E&S fees will be payable in advance except 6 & 10 dive packages. For 6 & 10 day dive packages, Environmental & Safety fees will be collected locally.
Single Occupancy Supplement: from $260 for 7 nights.
Sunrise over the South Pacific (Daryll Torckler)