Is Truk Lagoon the Ultimate Wreck Diving Destination for You?

After diving for about five years, I had completed my technical diving courses and explored several wrecks in places like Malta, Mexico, and other warm-water destinations. However, most of these wrecks were either purpose-sunk for diving or the primary dive site at a given location, making them incredibly crowded. After some research, I realized that Truk Lagoon was the perfect place to take my wreck diving to the next level.

What I found there exceeded even my wildest expectations. The diversity of wreck types, depths, and artifacts was incredible, and there were almost no other divers. Every time we explored a wreck, we had the entire site to ourselves. This article aims to provide all the information you need to plan your own journey to Truk Lagoon.

History

Truk Lagoon, also known as Chuuk Lagoon, is one of the world's most iconic dive destinations, famed for its extraordinary underwater graveyard of World War II shipwrecks. During Operation Hailstone in February 1944, the U.S. Navy launched a massive air and naval assault on the Japanese fleet stationed in the lagoon, sinking over 40 ships and numerous aircraft. This event transformed the lagoon into a submerged museum of military history, making it a mecca for wreck divers.

History of Diving in Truk Lagoon

Diving in Truk Lagoon gained popularity in the late 1960s and early 1970s as divers began exploring the World War II wrecks left behind. These early expeditions, often led by adventurous and technically skilled divers, uncovered the extent and condition of the wrecks, sparking international interest. Truk Lagoon quickly became one of the world’s premier wreck diving destinations, attracting divers from across the globe. Over the decades, advances in diving technology have improved access to deeper wrecks, and specialized dive operations have developed to cater to both recreational and technical divers. Today, Truk Lagoon remains a legendary dive destination, preserving its status as an underwater time capsule that draws both history enthusiasts and seasoned divers alike.

Geography

Truk Lagoon is part of the Federated States of Micronesia, located in the central Pacific. The lagoon itself is vast, encompassing over 822 square miles (2,130 square kilometers), surrounded by a barrier reef that encloses a protected body of water. The lagoon’s clear, warm waters and relatively calm conditions create an ideal environment for exploring the numerous wrecks scattered across the seafloor.

How to Get There

Reaching Truk Lagoon can be a bit of an adventure, particularly for travelers from Europe and America, but the journey is well worth it. The most common route from the United States involves flying through Honolulu, Hawaii, connecting to Guam, and then taking a flight from Guam to Chuuk, the main island in Truk Lagoon. United Airlines operates most of these flights. For travelers from Europe, the typical route includes flying through a major Asian hub such as Tokyo, Manila, or Seoul, followed by a flight to Guam and then on to Chuuk. Due to the multiple connections and time zone changes, it's advisable to plan a rest day upon arrival before diving.

Best Shipwrecks and Their Depths

Fujikawa Maru (Depth: 16-33 meters / 52-108 feet): The Fujikawa Maru is one of Truk Lagoon’s most famous and frequently dived wrecks. This 132-meter-long (433-foot) Japanese aircraft transport ship now rests upright on the seabed. The ship’s five cargo holds contain fascinating artifacts, including disassembled Zero fighter planes, parts of aircraft engines, propellers, and other wartime relics. The ship’s superstructure is adorned with colorful soft corals, and the bridge offers a stunning view of the lagoon’s marine life. The engine room, which is accessible to divers, provides an intriguing glimpse into the ship’s inner workings, with gauges and machinery still intact.

San Francisco Maru (Depth: 42-64 meters / 138-210 feet): Known as the “Million Dollar Wreck,” the San Francisco Maru is a must-dive for technical divers. This 117-meter-long (384-foot) cargo ship sits at a deeper depth, and its holds are filled with military hardware, including tanks, trucks, mines, and ammunition. The tanks, still perched on the deck, are a striking sight, almost as if they were ready to roll into battle. The deeper location of this wreck has helped preserve it remarkably well, but its depth also means that bottom time is limited, making a dive here best suited for those with technical diving training, including the use of trimix.

Shinkoku Maru (Depth: 12-40 meters / 39-131 feet): The Shinkoku Maru, a 152-meter-long (500-foot) oil tanker, is a standout feature of Truk Lagoon. The ship now rests upright, its deck covered in colorful corals and teeming with marine life. The infirmary remains largely intact, with medical bottles and instruments still visible for those who venture inside the wreck. Divers can explore the engine room, renowned for its photogenic qualities, where sunlight filters through portholes, creating an ethereal atmosphere. The stern and bridge areas are draped in soft corals, and the ship’s large gun turrets serve as a stark reminder of its wartime history.

Heian Maru (Depth: 15-35 meters / 49-115 feet): The Heian Maru, the largest wreck in Truk Lagoon, measures 155 meters (508 feet) in length. Originally a luxury passenger liner, it was converted into a submarine tender by the Japanese Navy. The wreck lies on its port side, and its immense interior contains a wealth of artifacts, including torpedoes, periscopes, and other submarine equipment. The Heian Maru’s expansive cargo holds, filled with remnants of naval warfare, provide a unique diving experience. The ship’s upper decks, now situated on the side of the wreck, are adorned with soft corals and attract a diverse array of marine life.

Betty Bomber (Depth: 13 meters / 43 feet): The Betty Bomber, a Japanese Mitsubishi G4M medium bomber, crash-landed in the lagoon and is one of the most sought-after aircraft wrecks in Truk Lagoon. Although it’s not a shipwreck, it remains a popular dive site. The plane lies at a relatively shallow depth, with its wings and fuselage still largely intact, though broken into sections. The cockpit and engines are easily accessible, making it an excellent dive for those interested in aviation history. The wreck is frequently surrounded by schools of fish, enhancing the overall dive experience.

Hoki Maru (Depth: 15-50 meters / 49-164 feet): The Hoki Maru, a freighter built in New Zealand, was captured by the Japanese during World War II. The wreck is renowned for its cargo of construction vehicles, including bulldozers and trucks, which are now scattered across the seabed. The ship rests on an even keel, with the upper deck and cargo holds offering numerous areas to explore. The deeper sections of the wreck present a challenge for less experienced divers, but the variety of artifacts and the rich marine life make it a highly rewarding dive.

IJN I-169 Submarine (Depth: 24-40 meters / 79-131 feet): The IJN I-169, also known as the Shinohara, is a Japanese submarine that met its end due to an internal mishap while attempting to evade the U.S. attack during Operation Hailstone. The submarine remains relatively intact, with the conning tower serving as a focal point for divers. Although the interior is tight and generally unsuitable for penetration by most divers, it still contains fascinating remnants of the submarine’s crew and mission. The exterior is covered in coral growth, adding to its photogenic appeal.

Nippo Maru (Depth: 27-48 meters / 89-157 feet): The Nippo Maru is a cargo ship renowned for its striking mix of military relics and vibrant marine life. The wreck is famous for its deck cargo, which includes a Type 95 Ha-Go light tank and various artillery pieces. Divers can also explore the bridge, where a telegraph and other navigational equipment remain. The cargo holds are filled with additional military supplies, such as munitions and vehicles. The wreck is frequently surrounded by schools of jacks and barracuda, offering excellent opportunities for wide-angle photography.

Marine Life

The wrecks of Truk Lagoon have transformed into thriving artificial reefs, attracting a wide array of marine life. Divers can expect to encounter a rich tapestry of soft corals, sponges, and anemones, which bring vibrant colors to the wrecks. The lagoon is home to a diverse range of fish species, including schools of barracuda, trevally, and snapper. Reef sharks are commonly seen patrolling the wrecks, while eagle rays and manta rays gracefully glide through the water. Macro enthusiasts will find much to admire, with nudibranchs, pipefish, and various crustaceans hiding in the nooks and crannies of the wrecks. The blend of historical artifacts and diverse marine life makes Truk Lagoon a unique and captivating destination for underwater photographers and marine life enthusiasts alike.

Key Features and Condition

The wrecks of Truk Lagoon are in varying states of preservation, with many still remarkably intact despite being submerged for over 70 years. The tropical waters have fostered vibrant coral growth and a proliferation of marine life, turning these wrecks into artificial reefs teeming with biodiversity. Many of the ships are adorned with soft corals, sponges, and anemones, and host schools of fish, sharks, and other marine creatures.

Visibility in Truk Lagoon is generally excellent, often exceeding 30 meters (98 feet), allowing divers to fully appreciate the scale and detail of the wrecks. However, the condition of the wrecks varies depending on depth and exposure to currents. Deeper wrecks, such as the San Francisco Maru, remain more intact due to reduced human interaction and slower rates of corrosion.

Prerequisites to Dive Truk Lagoon

Diving in Truk Lagoon is best suited for experienced and advanced divers due to the depth and complexity of many of the wrecks. Here are the key prerequisites:

• Advanced Open Water Certification: Many of the wrecks lie at depths beyond the limits of a basic open water certification.

• Wreck Diving Specialty: A wreck diving certification is highly recommended, as it will equip you with the skills needed for safe penetration of the wrecks.

• Technical Diving Certification: For deeper wrecks like the San Francisco Maru, technical diving certification, including the use of mixed gases, is essential.

• Experience with Nitrox: Given the depths of many of the wrecks, diving with enriched air (Nitrox) can extend your bottom time and increase safety. A Nitrox certification is strongly recommended.

• Physical Fitness: Due to the technical nature of many dives and the challenges of multiple deep dives in a short period, good physical fitness is essential.

Best Local Dive Operators

Diving Truk Lagoon is a highly specialized activity, and choosing the right operator is crucial for a safe and enjoyable experience. Here are some top local dive operators that cater to experienced divers:

• Master Liveaboards: Known for its luxurious experience combined with professional dive services, Master Liveaboards offers state-of-the-art diving facilities, including support for technical diving and Nitrox. Their comprehensive dive itineraries cover all the major wrecks, providing ample time to explore each site thoroughly. The crew is knowledgeable and experienced, ensuring that dives are both safe and memorable. The liveaboard options feature spacious cabins, fine dining, and amenities such as photo labs and rebreather support, making it a top choice for serious wreck divers.

• Odyssey Liveaboard: The Odyssey is one of the most established and respected liveaboards in Truk Lagoon. Custom-built for diving, it offers a variety of dive packages for both recreational and technical divers. The Odyssey’s itineraries are designed to maximize dive time on the most iconic wrecks. With a large dive deck, dedicated camera facilities, and spacious accommodations, it’s a favorite among underwater photographers and wreck enthusiasts. The crew, many with extensive experience in Truk Lagoon, provide excellent briefings and guidance, ensuring well-planned and executed dives.

• Blue Lagoon Dive Shop: Located on Weno Island, the Blue Lagoon Dive Shop is the longest-running dive operation in Truk Lagoon. It offers a range of services, including guided dives, equipment rental, and dive courses. Its proximity to the lagoon’s most famous wrecks makes it a convenient option for those preferring land-based accommodations. The associated Blue Lagoon Resort provides comfortable lodging with stunning views of the lagoon. The dive shop is renowned for its friendly and knowledgeable staff, dedicated to delivering a personalized diving experience.

Conclusion

Truk Lagoon is more than just a dive destination; it’s a living museum that captures a pivotal moment in history, now transformed into one of the world’s most extraordinary underwater environments. The lagoon’s rich history, combined with its stunning array of shipwrecks and vibrant marine life, offers a unique and deeply rewarding experience for accomplished divers.

The transition from wartime tragedy to a diver’s paradise makes Truk Lagoon a must-visit for those passionate about wreck diving and underwater photography. Whether you choose to explore the depths aboard a luxurious liveaboard or stay onshore with a trusted local operator, the dives you experience here will likely be among the most memorable of your diving career.

Proper preparation, including the necessary certifications and physical readiness, will ensure you can safely enjoy all that Truk Lagoon has to offer. By diving with one of the top operators in the area, you can maximize your experience, delving deeper into the history and wonders of this remarkable underwater world.

For seasoned divers, Truk Lagoon promises not just adventure but a profound connection to the past, set against the backdrop of some of the world’s most beautiful and haunting underwater scenery.