Le Nordby

Le Nordby is a shipwreck dive site in the Raiatea lagoon, French Polynesia, and the only wreck dive in Raiatea. The Nordby was a three-masted Danish sailing vessel that ran aground and sank on 22 August 1900, and has since become a well-established artificial reef.

Overview

The Nordby drifted from its anchorage and struck the Raiatea barrier reef on 22 August 1900, settling on the lagoon floor at depths of approximately 18–29 metres. The vessel was approximately 50–60 metres long (sources vary: 50 m, 53 m, and 60 m have been cited; the precise figure is unconfirmed) and constructed of metal. Over 120 years of submersion, the hull has become a substantial artificial reef encrusted with corals and sponges. The wooden deck has completely disappeared, leaving the hull open and accessible. Two of the original three masts remain as stumps. The clear lagoon water provides visibility of 25–35 metres. Water temperatures average 27–28°C.

What to Expect

The hull and mast stumps are colonised by encrusting corals, sponges, and hydroids. Surgeonfish, pennant coral fish (bannerfish), angelfish, and shrimps are among the species commonly observed on the wreck. Nudibranchs — reportedly up to 15 sub-species — are documented here. The sandy bottom alongside the hull holds stingrays. Moray eels shelter in crevices in the hull plating. The accessible interior holds, open where the deck has decayed, allow divers to swim through the structure. The site is rated accessible to entry-level certified divers due to the moderate depth and calm lagoon conditions.

Conditions

• Best season: Year-round; April–November for best visibility
• Visibility: 25–35 m typical
• Current: Mild to none in lagoon setting
• Water temperature: 27–28°C
• Entry: Boat dive from Raiatea operators

Tips

A torch greatly enhances the wreck interior — the hull’s open structure allows swim-throughs to the holds. Night dives on the Nordby are recommended by local operators for different marine life encounters. The wreck’s identity remained unknown for decades: until December 1996 a local journalist located the ship’s name in notarial archives.

Sources: Polynesia Paradise - Diving in Raiatea, Te Moana Diving - Raiatea & Taha’a, French Polynesia Travel Blog - Nordby dive. Last updated 2026-05-30.