Chuuk
Chuuk, or “Truk Lagoon”, is the world’s #1 dive destination for wreck divers, with over 60 wrecks that can be accessed by both recreational and technical divers. Reef fans will be equally fascinated by the enormous amount of colorful soft and hard corals that cover Chuuk’s wrecks. These incredible ship-shaped reefs are healthy and teeming with marine life. Most are easy dives and require only an Open Water certification. Advanced and tech diving are also readily available for those certified.
Chuuk is full of WW2 history and has diving that appeases both wreck and reef lovers alike. Look for info on “Operation Hailstone” to learn the interesting story of the wrecks of Chuuk Lagoon.
HOW TO GET THERE
Outgoing (Guam to Chuuk):
Mon/Wed/Fri mornings & Sun evening.
Return (Chuuk to Guam):
Tue/Thu/Sat afternoons & Mon very early AM.
Culture & Local Customs – Chuuk is very much a divers destination. A sheltered lagoon hiding a playground of colorful, ship-shaped reefs full of artifacts left behind from an historic WWII battle, Operation Hailstone. Above the surface, the lagoon is dotted with picturesque tropical islands. Although undeveloped, all of the islands in Chuuk are privately owned and making landfall requires special permission of the land’s owners. There are a few short land tours available, mostly to view old buildings and structures used in the war. All tours must be planned through your local tour operator. Non-divers can enjoy the lagoon by joining a dive boat as a rider/snorkeler.
There are no shopping/tourist areas, souvenir shops, etc. beyond the grounds of your dive resort.
Attire – Should you choose to venture beyond your dive resort please dress conservatively. Swimsuits/shorts shouldn’t be worn outside of the resort. Attire that covers the knees and shoulders is best. Swimwear is acceptable on the dive boat.
If you’re traveling between Guam and Hawaii, why not take the “island hopper”? This flight stops in Chuuk, Pohnpei & Kosrae and any of these islands can be planned as an extended stopover.
Permits & Fees
- Currency – US$ Dollars (USD)
- Language – English & Chuukese
- Outlets/voltage – US Standard outlets, 120V
Dive & Land permits
Chuuk State Dive Permit – $50
Some land tours require a permit or small payment to access private land. These tend to range from about $3-$10 per person. Carry a small amount of cash to cover land fees while exploring.
Departure Fee
- Must be paid at the airport upon departure.
- Plan to pay in cash – exact change.