Solomon Islands

Solomon Islands

Massive purple elephant ear sponge at the Florida Islands in the Solomon Islands

The Solomon Islands, located in the southwestern Pacific region of Melanesia, offer divers a plethora of underwater experiences, from pristine coral reefs to World War II wrecks. Matthew Meier tells of his return to this island oasis, where remnants of the islands’ military history can be viewed on land and under the sea.

Afloat just after being launched at the Federal Shipbuilding Company yard, Kearny, New Jersey, 25 October 1941

Wreckage of USS Juneau a long-lost WWII cruiser located off Solomon Islands

The Research Vessel R/V Petrel’s autonomous underwater vehicle (AUV) first identified the ship in its side scan sonar on March 17. Upon analysis of the sonar data, the Petrel crew deployed its remotely operated underwater vehicle (ROV) on March 18 to verify the wreckage through its video capabilities.