Ponam Island, was home to the Ponam Airfield, built by the US Navy in 1944. Occupied by Japanese forces in 1942, the island was retaken by Allies in 1944. Immediately after this, the Americans constructed the airfield, which was then handed over to the British Royal Navy. The airfield covers the Southeastern half of this small island, which is only 1.5 miles long. The airfield was used as a base for repairing and overhauling carrier aircraft in the Admiralty Islands Campaign – a series of battles in the New Guinea campaign of WWII in which the US Army took the Japanese held Admiralty Islands. Wreckage of several planes can be found in the surrounding waters of this island.
With a shallow lagoon filled with corals and tropical fish providing excellent snorkeling opportunities, and warm water surrounded by palm trees swaying in the breeze, the island’s interesting history and beautiful scenery make for a fascinating visit.
INCLUDED EXPEDITIONS:
- Snorkeling
- Visit to local village and cultural exchange