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| Image by Al Hornsby |
Chuuk is well-known as one of the world's best wreck diving locations, but the outer reefs host a plentiful supply of marine life and some larger pelagic species, too. The area was once known as "Truk Lagoon," and is the site of the
DIVE SITES
With more than 48 diveable wrecks, it's a tough choice, but here are a few not-to-miss dive sites compiled from various websites.
Shinkoku Maru
This wreck was a large oil tanker that sits upright and is considered to be one of the most beautiful wrecks in Chuuk. It's covered with corals, hydroids and sponges. In the galley you'll see remnants of dishes, utensils and the stove.
Heian Maru
This is the largest wreck in the lagoon at 530 feet. You can see the propellers, torpedo warheads and submarine telescopes. The ship is lying on its side at 100 feet.
Nippo Maru
Once a cargo ship, the 353-foot Nippo makes an interesting dive. The ship doesn't have as much coral growth as some, but it does offer an intact wheelhouse and two trucks and artillery, and sits upright in 50 to 110 feet of water.
Susuki Destroyer
A very shallow wreck that can be enjoyed by both divers and snorkelers, the Susuki was known as Patrol Boat 34 at the time of sinking. This wreck offers an intriguing view of the engine room, but divers will also find gas masks and other interesting items on the deck. You'll find colorful corals and sponge growth as well as a variety of species of fish.
San Francisco Maru
A deep dive with the stern at 210 feet, the San Francisco was used to ferry equipment and supplies. It's one of the oldest ships in the lagoon and still carries its cargo of tanks, mines, a truck, a steamroller and more.
Fujikawa Maru
Considered one of the best dives in Chuuk, the Fujikawa offers divers abundant sealife, interesting artifacts, and spectacular sponges and corals. It's also one of the most photographed wrecks due to the great photo opportunities. It's also got some interesting features such as aircraft parts and partly assembled fighter planes in the holds. Many interesting areas are easily accessible including the pilothouse, baths and staterooms.
Sankisan Maru
The Sankisan sunk after suffering a hit to an aft hold full of ordinance, causing a devastating explosion. However, what is left of the wreck makes for an excellent dive for both snorkelers and divers. The shallow masts are endowed with dense soft coral growth, while the cargo areas hold truck chassis and ammunition.
Other Dives in Chuuk
Aircraft Wrecks
Zero Bomber
This is an upside down attack fighter in 60 feet of water. The name was given to this Mitsubishi A6M5 carrier fighter by the allied forces.
Betty Bomber
This Mitsubishi G4M1 attack bomber was given the code name "Betty" and is 65 feet long and sits in 52 feet of water.
Reefs
Not to be missed are the many amazing reefs that encircle the lagoon. Visibility is generally up to 200 feet and here you'll see mantas, sharks, turtles, tunas and schooling fish.
