1 Shinkoku Maru
One of Chuuk's most beautiful wrecks, the Shinkoku was a large oil tanker that now rests upright on an even keel. The bow gun and most exposed structures are overgrown with luxurious corals, hydroids and sponges, all of it swirling with thousands of fish. In the bridge you can admire the encrusted engine telegraph and helm. The galley still holds an interesting array of dishes, utensils and a large stove.[top]

2 Heian Maru
Originally utilized as a submarine tender and cargo ship, the Heian Maru measures 510 feet in length, making it the largest ship in the lagoon. The small aft hold still contains ammunition, while near the galley, divers can admire an assortment of teacups and plates.[top]

3 Nippo Maru
This cargo ship with a length of 353 feet suffered little damage and makes for an intriguing dive. The holds contain a full battery of 5-inch guns and there are four Japanese antitank guns on the starboard deck in hold number four. The galley and aft part of the superstructure are accessible. The Nippo features the most picturesque bridge of all wrecks, with the sponge-encrusted helm and engine telegraph engulfed by a cloud of silver sweepers.[top]

4 Susuki Destroyer
Known as Patrol Boat 34 at the time of sinking, the Susuki is so shallow, even snorklers can enjoy this prolific wreck. The wreck is best known for its engine room, but divers will also find gas masks and other fascinating artifacts on the deck. The wreck boasts colorful soft coral and sponge growth as well as countless species of fish.[top]

5 San Francisco Maru
A mysterious and deep dive, the San Francisco still cradles many large, well-preserved war relics. Tanks rest on the main deck, while the forward hold contains mines. In the fourth hold, two trucks make unique photo subjects.[top]

6 Hoki Maru
Although this wreck is only partially intact, it makes for a spectacular dive. The aft hold is full of trucks and road equipment. Other holds contain an assortment of bombs and sake bottles. The masts and superstructure are adorned by crimson sponges.[top]

7 Fujikawa Maru
This fairly shallow cargo ship is considered one of Chuuk's "must dives." The Mitsubishi-built ship features a bow gun encrusted by multi-colored sponges and coral. The bow is blanketed with soft corals, fans and sea anemones, while the holds contain a water tank, ammunition for the bow gun, propeller blades, cowling and many other aircraft parts. There are also partly disassembled fighter planes together with fuselage parts and other equipment. The superstructure with pilothouse, baths, staterooms, galley and engine room are easily accessible and quite interesting.[top]

8 Yamagiri Maru
This Japanese freighter came to rest on her port side after she was hit repeatedly during air strikes over the lagoon. Almost completely intact, the Yamagiri is endowed with fantastic soft coral and varied sponges. The holds contain a variety of artifacts, including huge 18-inch artillery shells.[top]

9 Sankisan Maru
The Sankisan sunk after suffering a hit to an aft hold full of ordinance, causing a devastating explosion. However, what is left of the wreck makes for an excellent dive for both snorklers and divers. The shallow masts are endowed with dense soft coral growth, while the cargo areas hold truck chassis and ammunition.[top]