Gizo · Solomon Islands · Wreck · Lagoon
American Hellcat Fighter Plane
An intact WWII fighter plane sitting in a sunlit lagoon
An American Hellcat fighter from the Second World War lies completely intact in a sunlit lagoon near Gizo, in only ten metres of water. Divers and snorkellers can both explore it with ease, and the clear water makes it a favourite with underwater photographers.
Also known as Hellcat.
Where it is and how deep
No published position for this site — the map shows Gizo and its other sites; operators know the mooring.
The dive
The Hellcat rests completely intact in a sunlit lagoon at 10 m, shallow enough that snorkellers and divers can both explore the aircraft with ease. Visibility in the lagoon is excellent, and the plane is a favourite subject for underwater photographers looking for a dramatic WWII shot.
The wreck
- Vessel
- American Hellcat fighter plane
- Type
- WWII fighter aircraft
- Cause
- Lost during the Second World War; the circumstances are not published
- Lies
- Completely intact on the floor of a sunlit lagoon in 10 m of water
Marine life and season
The sources we used don't single out particular species here.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Good | Good | Good | Good | Good | Good | Good | Good | Good | Good | Prime | Good |
Season follows Gizo: Diving runs all year with no monsoon season; November has the least wind, though it can be muggy.
Dive videos
Hellcat dive, Gizo · Adrian Owen on YouTube
Sources
- American Hellcat Fighter Plane — Dive Gizo
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