Espiritu Santo Diving & Tours
A World-Class Diving Destination
Espiritu Santo is a diver’s paradise, home to some of the world’s most remarkable underwater experiences. From iconic shipwrecks to vibrant coral reefs, the island offers unforgettable adventures for certified divers, beginners and underwater photographers. Deco Stop Lodge is the ideal base, with easy access to dive operators, secure gear storage and the perfect place to relax after a day beneath the surface.
The SS President Coolidge
The SS President Coolidge is the crown jewel of Santo diving. This former luxury ocean liner, later converted into a World War II troop ship, sank in 1942 after striking a friendly mine. Today it rests close to shore in clear, calm water between 20 and 70 metres deep, and remains one of the largest and most accessible shipwrecks on the planet.
Divers can explore its vast holds, corridors and cargo for days, discovering everything from cannons and trucks to personal items still resting where they were left. The Coolidge offers an unforgettable combination of history, atmosphere and marine life.
Image credit: Allan Power Dive Tours
Million Dollar Point
Million Dollar Point is one of the most unusual dive sites in the Pacific. After World War II, American forces drove thousands of tonnes of military equipment into the sea when negotiations with the British and French authorities broke down.
Today, divers can explore a remarkable underwater landscape of trucks, bulldozers, machinery and wartime relics scattered across the seabed. It is an extraordinary slice of history and a fascinating site for wreck and macro enthusiasts.
Image credit: Allan Power Dive Tours
Snorkelling in Santo
If you prefer to explore the water from the surface, Espiritu Santo offers some of the best snorkelling in the region. The coastline is lined with coral reefs filled with colourful tropical fish, vibrant corals and clear blue water. Many visitors especially love spotting the bright orange and white clownfish that dart in and out of anemones.
Reef fish in Vanuatu can sometimes contain ciguatera, a naturally occurring toxin, so it is important to admire the fish rather than eat them.
Recommended Local Operator
At Deco Stop Lodge we recommend Allan Power Dive Tours, a long-standing and highly respected dive operator known for professionalism, safety and exceptional local knowledge. They offer guided dives and certified training for all experience levels.
Dive operators will pick you up and drop you back at the lodge, making each dive day easy and stress-free.
Deco Stop Lodge Dive Facilities
To make diving even easier, the lodge provides:
- A dedicated scuba-gear wash area
- Secure storage for gear
- A separate camera wash tub
- Easy pick up and drop off from local operators
Relax after your dives in the infinity pool, enjoy a drink overlooking the harbour, or unwind with a meal at Club Narcosis Restaurant & Bar.
Planning Your Santo Dive Holiday
Whether you are visiting for the SS President Coolidge, looking to discover Million Dollar Point, or simply wanting to experience Santo’s relaxed island lifestyle, our team can help you plan your dives and arrange bookings before or during your stay.
Ready to explore Santiago’s spectacular underwater world?
Book your stay at Deco Stop Lodge and let us help you plan the perfect diving adventure.
FAQs
Do I need to be an experienced diver to dive the SS President Coolidge?
The Coolidge offers dives suitable for different experience levels, but some deeper areas require advanced certification. Local operators will assess your experience and recommend suitable dives.
Can I learn to dive in Santo?
Yes. Allan Power Dive Tours offers certified dive courses for beginners through to advanced levels, and training can be arranged during your stay.
Do dive operators pick up from Deco Stop Lodge?
Yes, most operators provide convenient pick-up and drop-off directly from the lodge each dive day.
Is diving available year-round?
Diving in Santo is available throughout the year, with generally calm conditions and excellent visibility.
Can I rent gear in Santo?
Yes, dive operators provide all required scuba equipment and can assist with fitting and hire. You may bring your own gear if preferred.
What should I bring for my dive or snorkel day?
We recommend bringing your certification card, swimwear, reef-safe sunscreen, a towel, drinking water and a waterproof camera if you have one.
Where is the best snorkelling in Santo?
There are coral reefs all along the coast, with easy access at many beaches. Blue holes and some tour operators also offer excellent snorkel spots.
Can I eat reef fish in Santo?
No. Reef fish in Vanuatu can naturally contain ciguatera, so they should not be eaten. It is safe and enjoyable to view them while snorkelling.
Is there a place to wash and store dive gear at the lodge?
Yes. Deco Stop Lodge has a dedicated wash area, secure storage and a separate camera wash tub for divers.