Chuuk Lagoon, formerly Truk Atoll, is an atoll in the central Pacific Ocean and is part of Chuuk State in the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM). The country consists of a protective reef, 225 kilometres (140 mi) around, enclosing a natural harbour and lagoon with an area of ​​2,130 km2 (8,300 sq mi). Chuuk has a total land area of ​​93 square kilometers and a population of just over 35,000 people. The country's highest point has an elevation of 443 meters. 

Weno Town on the island of Weno (formerly Moen) serves as both the atoll capital and the state capital. It is also the largest city in the FSM with approximately 14000 residents.

Chuuk Lagoon was the Japanese Empire's main naval base in the South Pacific during World War II. Truk Lagoon was the site of a major American attack during Operation Hailstone in February 1944 and Operation Inmate, a small raid by British and Canadian forces in June 1945. A large number of ships were sunk and is now one of the world's most popular wreck diving destinations.

Chuuk means mountain in the Chuukese language. The lagoon was primarily known as Truk (a mispronunciation of Ruk), until 1990.

How much does a diving trip to Truk Lagoon (Chuuk) cost?

A diving trip to Truk Lagoon can cost a lot depending on a number of different factors. You can read more about them here on our site. It is difficult to give a general answer about how much it costs, but a guideline can be from about 50 -60 000 SEK / person and upwards for flights, transfers, accommodation on land and diving. Expect that a liveaboard can be more expensive.
For a more accurate price, the best thing you can do is contact us at Scuba Travel for a free proposal and you will receive more detailed info. 

When is the best time to go to Truk Lagoon (Chuuk)?

The best time to dive in Truk (Chuuk) Lagoon is normally during the dry season which offers the most reliable conditions with less rain, lower humidity and the calmest seas for better visibility. Although diving is entirely possible year-round, the wet season can bring more rain and plankton, potentially reducing visibility quite a bit.
Truk Lagoon is probably the ultimate diving trip for those who love wrecks.

o Dry season, December – April
o Rainy season, May – November

What can I see when diving in Truk Lagoon?

The marine life in Truk Lagoon (Chuuk) is rich and there are many fish. Typical species for the waters here are, for example, scorpionfish, frogfish, crocodilefish, seahorses and many invertebrates such as crustaceans, octopus, nudibranchs, cnidarians and sea urchins. Some places are attractive to sharks and various rays including manta rays.

The big event is of course all the wrecks that lie here. Depending on your diving experience and level of training, there are wrecks at different depths from the surface down. Boats and aircraft of all imaginable sizes and types.

Animals and nature

Chuuk Lagoon offers a rich marine life. Here you will find coral reefs, seagrass beds and mangrove forests. It is home to over 300 species of fish, sea turtles, rays and sharks. In addition to its marine life, the lagoon is also known for its lush, forested volcanic islands with waterfalls, unique flora such as breadfruit and coconut palms, and a rich birdlife and flying foxes.

Where is the best diving in Truk Lagoon (Chuuk)?

The “best” dive in Truk Lagoon depends on your experience level. The top wrecks are considered to be the San Francisco Maru (tanks) and Fujikawa Maru (aircraft parts, guns), while the Betty Bomber and Shinkoku Maru (corals, marine life) offer different experiences.
You have access to pretty much all wreck diving both from land-based resorts or from liveaboard. If you like wreck diving then Truk Lagoon is an absolute must at some point in your diving career.

Is there liveaboarding in Truk Lagoon?

Yes, there are liveaboards in Truk Lagoon. For those of you who want to go on a liveaboard here or to another destination or are thinking about land-based diving in Truk Lagoon, contact us with your wishes and concerns at tel: 0301-22100 – Departures

Great species richness

Truk Lagoon's marine life includes an abundance of sharks, rays, turtles and a vibrant mix of fish. Here you'll find butterflyfish, parrotfish, emperor and angelfish all thriving on the coral-covered wrecks. The wrecks, now serving as artificial reefs, attract a wealth of marine life. When diving, you'll also often encounter invertebrates such as nudibranchs, crustaceans and squid. Larger animals such as rays and sharks are frequently seen.

For those of you who don't dive

If you're not diving in Chuuk (Truk) Lagoon, you can snorkel to see the shallows of the WWII Ghost Fleet. You can visit the Operation Hailstone Museum for historical insight. Shop for souvenirs at local shops, relax at your hotel or enjoy the surrounding tropical marine life and ocean if you take a boat trip. Hand on heart, Truk Lagoon is a distinct destination for diving.