MV FeBrina Liveaboard Overview

Papua New Guinea’s underwater world is a kaleidoscope of life and adventure, offering divers a unique blend of vibrant coral reefs, teeming marine life, and adrenaline-pumping wreck dives.

Divers can see manta rays gliding through the clear waters of Milne Bay, explore WWII wrecks in Kavieng, and drift alongside schools of colorful fish amid the vibrant coral gardens of Kimbe Bay.

From thrilling drift dives to serene underwater landscapes and spectacular macro photography opportunities, Papua New Guinea’s diving scene caters to every preference and skill level.

MV FeBrina offers divers an intimate and comfortable liveaboard experience. This 73-foot (22 m) motor vessel has a relaxed and spacious atmosphere, catering to a maximum of 12 guests in 7 cabins.

Each cabin features an ensuite bathroom and air conditioning, ensuring comfort and privacy during the trip. An older, traditional-style boat, it was refitted in 2010. A dedicated crew of friendly and experienced professionals ensures personalized service and expert guidance.

Let’s dive into our review of MV FeBrina.

Where to book

MV FeBrina liveaboard dive boat anchored at sea under blue sky

PADI TravelSecure online booking Liveaboard.comNo booking fees Divebooker.comFree DAN insurance

Diving on the MV FeBrina

Cluster of colorful sea fans and soft coral on a reef with a diver silhouetted above

Colorful marbled shrimp perched on a coral reef near the MV FeBrina

Red whip coral rising from a coral reef near the MV FeBrina

Home to over 700 species of coral and 2,500 species of fish, Papua New Guinea offers incredible underwater biodiversity.

Liveaboard diving on the MV Febrina offers a front-row seat to this underwater spectacle, immersing guests in a world bursting with aquatic life. Dive sites range from shallow coral reefs teeming with colorful fish to dramatic walls and drop-offs where schools of sharks and mantas glide effortlessly.

The strong currents around Milne Bay and Kimbe Bay create thrilling drift dives, while WWII wrecks like the Black Jack offer historical intrigue and marine encrusted structures. The sheltered bays also provide serene havens for divers seeking macro wonders and vibrant coral gardens.

Diving takes place from a water-level duckboard at the rear of the boat. Divers can expect 4-5 dives a day, usually three before lunch, one afternoon dive and one night dive. Itineraries vary from 9- or 10-night trips in the peak months of September to November and April to June.

These itineraries cover the most popular diving areas of Kimbe Bay, Witu Islands and Fathers Reefs. Shorter itineraries of 8 nights are available in June, July and August, visiting Kimbe Bay Reefs and either Fathers Reefs or Witu Islands.

Highlights include manta rays, majestic hammerheads, and reef sharks. Dazzling clouds of anthias, fusiliers, and batfish are common. Papua New Guinea is a photographer’s paradise and macro wonders include nudibranchs and pygmy seahorses.

Highlights:

Untouched natural beauty
Up to 40 dives per trip depending on itinerary
Variety of dive sites
Spectacular biodiversity

Onboard the MV FeBrina

Shaded sun deck with blue loungers aboard the MV FeBrina liveaboard

Larger single cabin aboard the MV FeBrina with bunk beds and an ensuite door

Covered outdoor lounge deck aboard the MV FeBrina with wooden bench seating

MV FeBrina crew member arranging scuba tanks at the boat's muster station

Itineraries typically start and finish at Walindi Plantation Resort, located on the shores of Kimbe Bay on the north coast of New Britain Island.

The MV FeBrina has a comfortable interior with seven compact cabins, a mixture of small singles, large singles, twin cabins and a double cabin in the bow. Cabins are below deck, accessed by ladder-style stairs, and all have ensuite bathrooms and individually controlled air conditioning.

The salon and dining area feature several large tables for dining and a small seating area next to the bar. Find a large, shady seating area on the main deck toward the bow for some quiet time and stunning scenery.

The sundeck is a haven for relaxation and soaking up the tropical sunshine. Guests can recline on comfortable sun loungers, read a book, or enjoy the panoramic views of the ocean. Entertainment options onboard include a TV and DVD player, a music system, board games, books, and magazines.

The dive deck is compact and adjacent to the water-level duckboard, which is accessed from the dive deck by wooden ladder-type stairs. Dive briefings typically take place on the dive deck. Experienced dive guides provide detailed information about each dive site, including safety procedures, marine life encounters, and dive profiles.

The open deck area has a large table and seating area, a camera area, and a charging station. Individual gear storage lockers behind the seating area offer plenty of space for dive gear.

Highlights:

Intimate size and relaxed atmosphere
Experienced and friendly crew
Small, functional, and comfortable cabins
Spacious sundeck

Dining onboard the MV FeBrina

Dining saloon aboard the MV FeBrina set with pink napkins and bar seating

The MV FeBrina takes pride in offering its guests a quality culinary experience. A continental breakfast is available from 5:30 am before the first dive with a buffet breakfast awaiting divers on their return.

Lunch is usually buffet-style with the evening meal being a sit down affair, showcasing a fusion of Western and local cuisine, with fresh seafood often taking center stage.

Snacks are available throughout the day and include fresh fruit, cookies, and other light bites. The culinary team caters to a variety of dietary preferences, including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and lactose-free.

Guests are requested to inform of any special dietary requirements at least two weeks prior to the trip. A limited amount of alcohol is included with the evening meal, with additional drinks available for purchase.