Truk Lagoon

Chuuk state consists of seven major island groups lying within the Eastern Caroline Islands, southeast of Guam and southwest of Hawaii.

The Pacific is a place of dreams. The name alone conjures up visions of endless sunny days and a blue horizon stretching out to infinity. Yet it is not just the paradise surface side that draws us here. The Pacific is a diver's delight and beneath the waves are unimaginable sights. Not least of these is Truk Lagoon. Located in the middle of the expansive ocean this mystical lagoon is shaped like an o-ring, clearly visible from the sky.

During the Second World War the Japanese Imperial Fleet used Truk to hide their forward anchorage. Then in 1944 the Americans flew in and bombed the fleet into annihilation. The end result is that today there are over 60 ships and in excess of 250 airplanes that sank - many of which are complete and dive able. The perpetual warm water, lush corals and thriving marine life keep divers coming back for more.

Jacques Cousteau first catapulted Truk to fame in 1971 when he and his team broadcast the first images to the world. Since then divers have travelled to Truk to see for themselves this incredible treasure trove. Over 40 wrecks are currently dived in Truk, ranging from shallow recreational ships to the deeper vessels that lure technical divers.

The wrecks are remarkably intact although their cargos are nearly as fascinating as the ships themselves. The holds are packed with all manner of munitions, trucks and airplane parts. Delve into the intact engine rooms or take in the stark reminders of the human lives that were lost. Divers can roam through gantries and across companionways in current free conditions. The water is always warm, the visibility crystal clear and there is a vast biodiversity that smothers the decks. Occasional sharks and rays accompany over 250 species of reef fish. There is something for everyone in Truk, no matter what your experience. Wreck diving will never be quite the same again.