Dive tourism is a growing market in the country’s tourism sector.
However, since the COVID-19 pandemic, Honiara has had limited access to dedicated diving services.
As more visitors come to Honiara for short stays, particularly business travellers with limited free time, the demand for accessible diving services and equipment rental has increased.
In response to this gap, Dive Guadalcanal, a new dive operator, has launched services in and around Honiara.
They have introduced certified dive instruction, guided diving, and equipment rental.
They have also planned to train more local dive guides and instructors, increasing skills development and creating local jobs.
Australia has partnered with Dive Guadalcanal to support the purchase of essential dive equipment such as regulators, buoyancy compensators, fins, and masks.
Local training programs will also be delivered in collaboration with Diving Operators Solomon Islands (DOSI) to provide a safe, professional experience for divers and to increase access to training and employment in this growing sector.
Hon. Francis Sade, Minister for Public Service and Member of Parliament (MP) for Northwest Guadalcanal, welcomed the initiative.
“This partnership brings real benefits to our communities.
“It’s encouraging to see investment coming into Northwest Guadalcanal to unlock our tourism potential.
“I look forward to seeing Dive Guadalcanal grow and create new opportunities for young people and families in the area,” he said.
Australian High Commissioner to Solomon Islands, His Excellency Rod Hilton, said “Tourism is a vital part of Solomon Islands’ economy.”
“Partnerships like this help create local jobs, boost services, and strengthen the country’s position as a destination for dive tourism,” High Commissioner Hilton said.
“Expanding diving services in Honiara will encourage more tourists to the country’s capital before travelling to established dive sites in other provinces.”
Kymberly Bryce, founder of Dive Guadalcanal, said “there’s a real buzz about diving in the Solomons.
“We’re excited to be part of that momentum.”
“With Australia’s support, we’re not only setting up a much-needed dive operation in Honiara but also creating pathways for Solomon Islanders to build careers in the dive industry.
“It’s about building something sustainable, by Solomon Islanders, for Solomon Islanders and visitors alike.”
The partnership is another example of why Australia is Solomon Islands’ nambawan economic partner.
This complements other efforts to strengthen tourism offerings in Solomon Islands to encourage more tourists to visit the Hapi Isles.
– AHC
