Tailor-made holidays to Truk (Chuuk) are on the up as more divers look to tick this bucket-list destination, says UK tour operator, Diverse Travel.
With some of the best WWII wreck diving in the world, it’s hardly surprising that more divers are looking to add this to their diving collection. The area is a memorial to the ships and aircraft that sunk in the natural lagoon, some deep and some shallow so giving all levels of diver the chance to experience a lifetime adventure.
Nestled in the South West Pacific, here are sunshine days and a wondrous delight both above and below the water. This was once a WWII Japanese stronghold where the Americans destroyed more aircraft and ships in a two day attack than any other during the war. Today these wrecks, over 60 ships and 250 airplanes, still carry their cargo, guns, ammunitions and explosives now covered with corals in warm, clear waters.
With all the wrecks lying in the sheltered lagoon, guests can choose to dive from a liveaboard or resort no matter what the level of diving. Truk is also the perfect destination for technical divers with many dive centres offering tech services.
This is a great chance to combine it with a visit to Micronesia and the opportunity to snorkel at Jellyfish Lake in Palau, dive with the mantas of Yap and enjoy the warm water, lavish corals and flourishing marine life.
The best time to go is any time of the year with water temperatures between 28-29ºC.
Liveaboard prices are from £2795 per person for a 10 night package based on twin share including return flights from London Heathrow to Truk via Manila, accommodation, 7 nights on board, dives and transfers.
Resort prices start from £2550 per person for a 12 night package based on twin share including return flights from London Heathrow to Truk via Manila, 10 nights in Blue Lagoon Resort with breakfast and 9 days’ diving with three dives a day and transfers.
“Truk Lagoon has long been considered the Holy Grail of UK wreck enthusiasts, myself being no exception, explains Jim Yanny, Diverse Travel’s owner. “So when I was finally privileged enough to dive Truk I have to admit that I was extremely excited; by then it had almost gained mythical status. It has to be seen to be believed and given the increase in the number of clients booking to go there now is the time to follow that dream.”