R.M.S. Maitai

The RMS Maitai, a steamship weighing 3400 tons which was constructed in 1892, collided with the reef just outside Avarua Harbour on Christmas Day in 1916. Having spent over a century beneath the surf zone, the wreck has integrated into the surrounding reef, scattering the wreckage across a wide expanse. At a depth of 10 meters, divers can explore the remains, which offer a captivating glimpse into the past.

Visible even after all these years, the superstructure of the ship serves as a testament to its former glory. Divers will also encounter remnants such as the intact rudder, drive shaft, and several boilers. Particularly noteworthy is the engine block, defiantly protruding from the water's surface, defying the passage of time and the elements.

Located in the Cook Islands, this extraordinary dive site is easily accessible from Marine Drive in Avatiu, Avarua, Te-Au-O-Tonga, Rarotonga. With excellent visibility reaching up to 20 meters and a maximum depth of 14 meters, the RMS Maitai wreck offers an opportunity for divers of all levels, including beginners, to immerse themselves in this underwater historical treasure.