Diving the Twin Tunnels

The Twin Tunnels are actually two lava tubes which start at the edge of a wall and rise up through the wall to the plateau at the top. One is wider and shorter than the other, but either can be comfortably dived with all gear on even sizable divers.

Twin Tunnels is a fascinating dive. The site is located south offshore from Tulagi. The dive starts at about 20 metres and is about 30 metres at the bottom.

The divers choose the tunnel and descend through the wall, then explore the sea wall, fish and corals. It is usual to turn right as you exit the tunnel, as that is in the direction of the dive boat mooring bouy, and slowly ascend as you explore the wall and then the plateau. However, I have found the swim to the left is more interesting.

At the entrance to the smaller tunnel there are two live giant clams. One is white and is well camouflaged against the sand. The area is adrift with fish of a large number of species, including the neon spotted queen fish. There are numerous gorgonian fans, the favourite home of the pygmy seahorse, but I have never managed to spot one - anywhere. I must get brave enough to dive with contact lenses one day soon.

This is one of my favourite dives, for the unique experience of descending through the tunnels, as well as the beautiful marine life.

This dive can be reached by day trip from Honiara, as part of a stay at Tulagi, or on route to other dive sites further west in the Florida Group.