While the divers were enjoying a post dive snack, we moved to the Fujikawa Maru, where we were to spend the rest of the day. She was a 6,938 ton passenger ship turned aircraft ferry. The beauty, grandeur, artifacts and fish life of the 465 feet of the Fujikawa Maru, were more than could be savored in a day. A week, maybe! Many folks believe the Fujikawa Maru to be the finest wreck dive in the world! We certainly wouldn't argue.

When she went down southwest of Eten Island, she was partially loaded with (disassembled) aircraft. While the propeller is at 120 feet, portions of her come almost to the surface, making for interesting views and photos. In fact, the forward king post used to break the surface. But nature and man have conspired to snap it off.

Her gun makes an interesting available light photo at about 60 feet of depth. The size can be estimated by the diver on the right of the photo (notice his tank). The mixture of unadorned metal and explosive marine growth is wonderful.

Inside the wreck, a group of machine guns stand at the ready. A sea cucumber uses their height to move away from the deck.

The garden of corals and sponges stand in stark contrast to the metal skeleton of the sunken ship.

A carpet anemone has captured a meal and is folded up in itself digesting it.

At night the wreck takes on a completely different view. While the darkness introduces a feeling of uneasiness, when the colors and critters come to light, all is forgotten! A sharp-nosed puffer fish hides beneath the starboard rail.

A red chrinoid adorns another rail. Chrinoids are ancient creatures, related to starfish. They actually have legs and move around to find the ideal conditions to filter feed. Their "arms" are lacy and will wrap around potential food to move it toward the central mouth.

Continue the Truk Lagoon tour