For centuries humans believed the ocean was so vast that it was impossible to do it measurable harm. But we now know human activities can destroy critical marine habitats, dangerously pollute seawater and make sea environments more acidic. Overharvesting has disrupted food chains and directly pushed many ocean species into the critically endangered category—and has driven some animals, including Steller's sea cow, into total extinction. This past March the smooth handfish officially became the first modern-day marine fish to be declared extinct.

Handfish are a family of 14 unusual bottom-dwelling species related to deep-sea anglerfish. Unlike most other fishes, they do not have a larval phase and do not move around very much as adults; these traits make them sensitive to environmental changes, according to Graham Edgar, a marine ecologist at the University of Tasmania. “They spend most of their time sitting on the seabed, with an occasional flap for a few meters if they're disturbed,” Edgar says. “As they lack a larval stage, they are unable to disperse to new locations—and consequently, handfish populations are very localized and vulnerable to threats.” In 1996, he adds, another species called the spotted handfish was the first marine fish listed as critically endangered on the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List.

The Bilikiki has 10 deluxe cabins, eight with a double bed and single bunk and two with twin single beds and no bunk. All cabins are air-conditioned and have their own ensuite bathroom. The ship has a large sundeck, comfortable lounge, camera area, and spacious dive deck. Her large size and a steel hull that was built for South Pacific seas are two main reasons why you will find this ship one of the most spacious and comfortable vessels that you have experienced.

Our unique package offers 11-nights deluxe cabin accommodation on the fabulous Bilikiki liveaboard where we will visit the Russell Islands, Mary Island, and the Florida Islands to dive the stunning reefs of these areas, and we also visit the Marovo Lagoon area of the Western Province. On this unique adventure, we will stop at villages to experience native singing and dancing and get a taste of the traditional customs and life. We will also see the famous wood carvings of the area, and have an opportunity to buy hand-made carvings and other traditionally made items. 

This adventure includes deluxe cabin accommodation, 3 meals a day (plus snacks, water, coffee, espresso, tea), nitrox for certified divers, and unlimited diving with the dive day built around five daily dives.

Cost: $6,930 per person double occupancy includes standard package, nitrox, and taxes. Ask for our agent special offer...!