NEW: The Solomon Islands

This remote, seldom-traveled country in the south western corner of the Pacific was a major WWII battleground and is considered one of the worlds most exotic dive destinations. Our experience was facilitated by the renowned live-aboard dive vessel, M.V. Bilikiki. Thirteen nights aboard ship enabled diving sites in various regions, including the Florida Islands, Mary Island, the Russell Islands and Marovo Lagoon near New Georgia Island.

Local Dugout Canoe and M.V. Bilikiki _D502700

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Local Dugout Canoe and M.V. Bilikiki _D502700

Though originally scheduled for 14 nights aboard ship, an airline cancellation caused us to miss the first night of the cruise. We rebooked on a different airline arriving a day late in The Solomon Islands, only to discover all of our checked baggage had been left behind in Fiji.

Our baggage, which contained all our UW camera gear, dive gear and clothes was delivered to us aboard ship 4 days later, THANKS TOTALLY to the Bilikiki Operations Manager stationed in Honiara, SI.

We managed to log a total of 51 dives during the trip, using borrowed dive gear until ours arrived. However, we did miss out on several rare photo opportunities, including Giant Manta Rays.

Bilikiki pictured here at anchor while its guests pay a visit to a village.

Bilikiki Solomon Islands

Fishy Characters & Bird Brains

Underwater, Topside Nature and Other Photographic Images by David Allen & Lisa Downs

NEW: The Solomon Islands