Truk Lagoon
Truk Lagoon, also known as Chuuk, is a Wreck Diving Mecca. Located in the Central Pacific Ocean, North of Papua New Guinea. Chuuk atoll is enveloped by reef islands, creating a natural harbour approximately 79km x 50km wide.
The modern Chuuk State consists of 11 major islands, and along with the other states, Kosrae, Pohnpei and Yap, they make up the Federated States of Micronesia.
Due to it’s major significance as a air / naval battle site, Truk Lagoon is world famous for the unique wreck diving it provides. There are over 44 ships and various aircraft that are divable.
During 1942 Chuuk Atoll was occupied by the Japanese 1st, 2nd and 3rd Fleets as well as the 6th Submarine Fleet. On 4 February 1944 two USAF Catalinas flew over and photographed the Truk Lagoon bases. 13 Days later a US Task Force launched “Operation Hailstone” consisting of air raids against the Japanese fleets at Truk . During the attacks the Japanese lost over 275 aircraft and 45 ships.
During 1969, 25 years after the major battle in 1944, French Oceanographer, Jacques Cousteau discovered the wrecks with his team. After his 1971 TV documentary about wreck graveyard within the lagoon, the islands drew divers in from all over the world itching for a chance to see perfectly intact wrecks with all sorts of cargo.
The amazing combination of circumstance offers perfect conditions for wreck diving. The water is warm, the visibility is great, there is a lack of normal ocean currents, most wrecks are close to the surface and the sheer amount of military history makes it unlike any other site in the world.
The Chuuk State has reached adolescence. Now offering regular flights in and out through Guam. There are some good hotels, and you have a choice of live aboard operators ranging in extravagance and price, as well some good land based diving.
Truk Lagoon is a place for serious wreck divers and not a place for families. There is little nightlife or entertainment. The local currency is US dollars and a good estimate for spending money ranges from $100 -150 USD per week. Truk is also not a hotspot of tourist activity so expect bad meals and poor service. The diving is really the reason for this trip.
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Diving Truk Lagoon, Overseas Diving with Xplore Dive, Truk lagoon, Truk lagoon basic history