divehq.co.nz · Operator
Experience level, wreck layout, and penetration context.
MV Mikhail Lermontov, wreck
Large Port Gore cruise-ship wreck for experienced divers.
Scuba DivingBoatBeginner12m - 38m
Artificial reefWreck
Local operator required
Most divers visit the wreck on dedicated charter trips from Picton, Wellington, or Kaikoura-area operators.
Boat-only Marlborough wreck dive with shallow upper structure but deep sections, low-to-moderate visibility, and meaningful overhead risk even when sea state is calm.
About MV Mikhail Lermontov, wreck
The MV Mikhail Lermontov is one of New Zealand's signature wreck dives, a huge Soviet-era cruise liner lying on its starboard side in Port Gore after sinking in 1986. The wreck offers everything from external exploration along bridge, funnels, and hull lines to serious guided penetration, with resident fish life and the sheer scale of the intact ship making it compelling for experienced wreck divers.
Safety & Access
Site Conditions
Overhead environment
Safety Notes
As a wreck dive, hazards associated with overhead environments apply.
Access Restrictions
The wreck is reached by charter boat into Port Gore and practical access depends on weather, sea state, and operator approvals for wreck-qualified divers.
Legal Notes
The wreck is a historic shipwreck site and divers should follow operator guidance and local heritage expectations, including leaving artefacts in place.
Where Is MV Mikhail Lermontov, wreck?
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Local Intel For MV Mikhail Lermontov, wreck
Community notes to help plan your visit.
Scuba Diving
Described as suitable for divers from beginner through to technical.
Freediving
This site is not a realistic freedive target because the wreck's value is in deeper structure and wreck-penetration routes beyond normal breath-hold depth.
Snorkeling
The MV Mikhail Lermontov is not a practical snorkel site because the wreck lies well below the surface and is visited as a dedicated boat-based scuba wreck dive.
Wildlife at MV Mikhail Lermontov, wreck
Species commonly reported at this site, with direct links into their wildlife guides.
Research Estimate At MV Mikhail Lermontov, wreck
Conservative baseline from public research. No community dives logged yet.
Avg. Visibility7m
Access2/5 · Challenging entry effort
Aquatic Life3/5 · Average variety
Facilities2/5 · Limited facilities
CurrentLight current
