Conflict Islands

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Conflict Islands (or Conflict Group) is an atoll in the Louisiade Archipelago, Milne Bay Province, Papua New Guinea. The nearest main town is Alotau, the capital of the province located 130km (80 miles) directly west.

The Conflict Islands form a pear-shaped atoll of 10 km by 22 km, enclosing a massive central lagoon within the fringing reef, 18 km² in size. There are three main passages that connect the lagoon with the surrounding waters of the north-eastern Coral Sea — the largest of these, known as Ship Pass, is found on the south-western side. Around the reef perimeter are found 19 islands varying in size from less than 1 hectare to the largest at 97 hectares (240 acres); and two islets found within the lagoon centre. The third largest island, Panasesa 635 hectares (157 acres) currently accommodates a resort comprising 6 bungalows with ensuites, main club house, diving and fishing centre and a 650 metre runway. Except for Panasesa (where there is a resort and airstrip), the atoll is uninhabited. The Conflict Islands is owned under freehold title by international entrepreneur Ian Gowrie-Smith. The atoll is known for its pristine dive sites.

The Conflicts Islands were first charted in 1879 by Captain Bruce of H.M.S. Cormorant, but they weren't named until 1880 after H.M.S. Conflict by its Captain, Lieutenant Bower.

For more information, see: www.conflictislands.com/