Official shipwreck-swimming article and calm-day access context.
Shallow historic shipwreck off Avarua.
Shallow historic shipwreck off Avarua.
R.M.S. Maitai is a historic shipwreck on the reef outside Avarua Harbour in Rarotonga. The wreck now sits as part of the reef, with the engine block still visible above the surface and the rudder, drive shaft, boilers, and superstructure spread across the shallow reef. On very calm days it can be explored from shore or by a short swim, making it as much a landmark and snorkel site as a wreck dive.
Conservative baseline from public research. No community dives logged yet.
Depth range, seasonality, and planning context.
Reported Depth
0m - 10m
Depth Note
Depth given as 10 metres.
Best Season
Year-round in very calm conditions; sea state matters more than the calendar.
Typical Conditions
Shallow wreck-and-reef site with clear water on calm days and surf-zone exposure when the sea is up.
Hazards, restrictions, and access requirements.
Key Hazards
Access Restrictions
Shore access only in very calm sea conditions; surf and chop can shut the site out quickly.
Legal Notes
No special access rules are noted beyond standard reef safety and local guidance.
Community notes to help plan your visit.
Scuba Diving
Shallow wreck-and-reef dive around scattered debris and remaining machinery at about 10 m depth.
Snorkeling
A classic calm-day snorkel site, with wreck structure visible near the surface and reef fish around the remains.
Community dive logs and visit reports for this site.
Average conditions based on logged dives & visits.
Planning answers for access, conditions, timing, and site logistics.
Last Updated
Research Sources
Official shipwreck-swimming article and calm-day access context.
R.M.S. Maitai wreck profile and shallow-water access context.
Rarotonga dive-site guide with calm-day snorkel and safety notes.
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