Conflict Islands

The Conflict group is an atoll in Milne Bay, twenty-one low coral islets set around a lagoon of some three hundred square kilometres, named after a nineteenth-century survey vessel. The atoll is held under a private lease and operated as a destination: a small resort on Panasesa, day visits from expedition and cruise ships, snorkelling and diving on the lagoon reefs and the outer walls, and a turtle conservation programme that collects hawksbill and green turtle eggs from the beaches into a hatchery and releases the hatchlings, with visitors able to take part. The reefs are in good condition by regional standards, the lagoon is clear, and the islets are uninhabited apart from the operation.

What you actually see

• The lagoon - the clear water enclosed by the ring of islets.
• The turtle hatchery - the nest collection and hatchling releases.
• Reef snorkelling and diving - the lagoon reefs and the outer walls.
• The uninhabited islets - the low coral islands around the ring.

When to go

May to October for the calmest conditions; the northwest season brings rougher water. Turtle nesting and hatching run through much of the year with peaks in the warmer months. Access depends on the operator's schedule.

Honest expectations

Access is entirely through the private operation or on a cruise call; independent visits are not possible. Costs are high. The atoll is a long way from Alotau and transfers are weather-dependent. Facilities are limited to the one small resort.

Nearby

Alotau lies west; the Louisiades run southeast.