Gavutu F4F Wildcat (Wreck)
The dive site in the water is believed to be the resting place of an aircraft flown and ditched by Lt. James Swett, a renowned Pacific air ace during World War II. Located at a depth of 42m on a sandy seabed, this fascinating wreck is a must-visit for divers. Although the propeller and engine cowling are missing, the site still offers a captivating experience, especially during slack tide.
Notably, the dive site boasts an abundance of marine life, with trevelly and snapper frequently seen in the vicinity. Additionally, a painted crayfish has made its home near the starboard undercarriage, adding to the site's allure.
Divers can explore the open cockpit, where the wing-mounted guns remain intact. With a maximum depth of 31m and visibility reaching up to 10m, this advanced and expert-level dive site promises an unforgettable adventure.
Situated in the Solomon Islands, specifically close to Tulagi in the Central Province, this dive site encapsulates the rich history and breathtaking underwater landscapes this region has to offer.
Notably, the dive site boasts an abundance of marine life, with trevelly and snapper frequently seen in the vicinity. Additionally, a painted crayfish has made its home near the starboard undercarriage, adding to the site's allure.
Divers can explore the open cockpit, where the wing-mounted guns remain intact. With a maximum depth of 31m and visibility reaching up to 10m, this advanced and expert-level dive site promises an unforgettable adventure.
Situated in the Solomon Islands, specifically close to Tulagi in the Central Province, this dive site encapsulates the rich history and breathtaking underwater landscapes this region has to offer.
Diving Conditions Score for Gavutu F4F Wildcat (Wreck)
8.3
Very GoodVery good diving conditions!
The score is based on a calculation of the current weather and sea conditions.
Dive Site Overview for Gavutu F4F Wildcat (Wreck)
Depth
31m
Visibility
10m
Experience Level
advanced
expert
Weather Conditions for Gavutu F4F Wildcat (Wreck)
Wave Height
0.58m
Wind Speed
14.7 m/s
Water Temp
28.8°C
Visibility
27.2km
Cloud Cover
100%
Wave Period
4.2s
Air Temperature
25.6°C
Precipitation
0.1 mm
Detailed 7-Day Diving Forecast for Gavutu F4F Wildcat (Wreck)
Alpha
Dive Score Chart for Gavutu F4F Wildcat (Wreck)
Best time to dive: 11:00 with score 8.110941762452107/10. Water conditions: Waves 0.62m, Wind 13 m/s.Best night dive time: 19:00 with score 7.704033333333333/10.
Chart showing hourly dive conditions including wave height, wind speed, water temperature, and visibility throughout the day.
Sunrise at Gavutu F4F Wildcat (Wreck): 06:00
Sunset at Gavutu F4F Wildcat (Wreck): 18:00
Optimal diving conditions at Gavutu F4F Wildcat (Wreck) are affected by daylight hours. Sunrise occurs at 06:00 and sunset at 18:00, which impacts visibility and water temperature for scuba diving and snorkeling.
Best Overall
11:00Score: 8.1/10
Waves: 0.62m (4.35s), Wind: 13 m/s
Safest Overall
16:00Score: 8.1/10
Waves: 0.56m (4.1s), Wind: 13.3 m/s
Best Night
19:00Score: 7.7/10
Waves: 0.6m, Wind: 14.8 m/s
Seasonal Analysis for Gavutu F4F Wildcat (Wreck)Alpha
Historical patterns and best seasons for diving at Gavutu F4F Wildcat (Wreck)
The dive score combines all factors to rate overall diving conditions throughout the year. Higher scores indicate better diving conditions.
Monthly Dive Score Analysis - Seasonal Diving Conditions
Higher values indicate better diving conditions
Seasonal DiveScore Chart
This chart displays monthly diveScore data throughout the year, showing seasonal patterns. The data is presented as a bar chart with an overlaid line graph.Dive scores range from 1 to 10, with 10 being optimal conditions.
Higher values indicate better diving conditions
Best Season for Gavutu F4F Wildcat (Wreck)
Summer
Avg. Score: 9.8/10
Summer offers the warmest water temperatures and generally favorable conditions for all levels of divers.
Best Months for Gavutu F4F Wildcat (Wreck)
July
Score: 10.0
May
Score: 9.8
June
Score: 9.7
Ideal Conditions for Gavutu F4F Wildcat (Wreck)
Water Temp
27.0°C / 80.6°F
May
Visibility
12.0m / 39.4ft
October
Wave Height
0.9m / 3.0ft
December
Wave Period
8.0s
January
Seasonal Insights for Gavutu F4F Wildcat (Wreck)
Gavutu F4F Wildcat (Wreck) follows southern hemisphere patterns with July being the warmest month (27.1°C) and December the coldest (23.1°C). The calmest conditions typically occur in December with average wave heights of 0.9m and wave periods of 8.0s. The most comfortable wave conditions are in December with a low wave steepness ratio, creating gentler swells. January offers the longest wave periods (8.0s), creating more comfortable and predictable conditions for boat entries and exits. Ocean currents are slowest in January (0.5m/s) and strongest in January (0.5m/s). July is usually the driest month with 1.0mm of precipitation. For beginners, the best time to visit would be during December to February, when ocean conditions are calmer with long-period waves and currents are typically weaker. Experienced divers might enjoy the challenges and potentially better visibility during the shoulder seasons, with moderate currents that can improve marine life encounters.
Last updated: 1 min. ago - Jul 9, 2026
Note: This dive site is not a verified dive site. Please dive with caution. This dive site might have incorrect information by the community.
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