Kennedy Island (Kasolo)
Kasolo Island
The small island where, in 1943, Kennedy and the crew of PT-109 swam ashore to survive. It is surrounded by white sand and snorkeling reefs.
In August 1943, the US Navy PT-109 torpedo boat was rammed and sunk by a Japanese ship. Its commander, John Kennedy, led the survivors to this small island. They later moved to nearby Olasana Island, and were finally rescued after the local scouts Biuku and Eroni delivered a call for help written on a coconut shell. The island has a simple memorial plaque and a walking path. Going around it takes only about 10 minutes, and the surrounding coral reefs are good for snorkeling. It is about 20 minutes by boat from Gizo, and a small landing fee is charged.
Opening hours
Daytime (reached by boat)
Nearby sights
- Fatboys Resort, Mbabanga Island
- Gizo Market & Waterfront
- Toa Maru Wreck
- Njari Island
- Kolombangara Island
- Skull Island (Roviana Lagoon)
- Simbo Island