Truk Lagoon Guide
Chuuk Lagoon: A Diver's Paradise and WWII Graveyard Guide
Truk Lagoon, now known as Chuuk Lagoon, is a world-renowned destination for wreck diving, located near Weno, Micronesia. This vast lagoon is a veritable underwater museum, home to a staggering number of sunken ships, airplanes, and other artifacts from World War II. It's a must-see for experienced divers and anyone interested in maritime history. During World War II, Truk Lagoon served as the Imperial Japanese Navy's main base in the South Pacific. In February 1944, Operation Hailstone, a massive U.S. Navy air raid, decimated the Japanese fleet stationed there, resulting in the sinking of dozens of ships and hundreds of aircraft. The wrecks, now encrusted with coral and teeming with marine life, offer a unique and haunting glimpse into the past. The main activity in Truk Lagoon is scuba diving. Divers can explore the well-preserved wrecks, observing tanks, trucks, ammunition, and even personal belongings of the sailors and airmen who perished there. Many dive operators offer specialized wreck diving courses and guided tours. While diving is the main draw, snorkeling is also possible in some shallower areas. Local restaurants offer fresh seafood and Micronesian cuisine, often featuring dishes with coconut milk, taro, and breadfruit.
Transportation
Access to the dive sites within Truk Lagoon is exclusively by boat. Numerous dive resorts and operators on Weno provide transportation as part of their dive packages. Pre-booking with a reputable operator is highly recommended.