Top 5 WWII Wreck Dives to Experience in Palau

Palau is a small island nation in the Pacific that witnessed intense fighting during World War II. Its waters now serve as a resting place for numerous sunken ships and aircraft from the conflict, offering divers the chance to explore these underwater relics. Each site is a reminder of the war’s impact on the region and holds historical and cultural significance. Palau’s warm waters and clear visibility make it one of the most popular destinations for wreck diving enthusiasts.

The Iro Maru

The Iro Maru, a Japanese oil tanker, was sunk during an air raid in 1944. The ship lies upright in about 120 feet of water, with much of its structure still intact. Divers can explore its deck, cargo holds, and engine room, all of which offer a glimpse into its role during the war. The large coral formations that have grown on the wreck provide a striking contrast to the steel of the ship, creating a unique underwater landscape.

The Iro Maru was used to transport fuel for Japanese forces, making it a prime target for Allied bombers. Its sinking disrupted supply lines and underscored the vulnerability of maritime transport during the war. Today, the site is one of Palau’s most iconic wrecks and is frequently visited by divers.

Jake Seaplan

The Jake Seaplane is a Japanese reconnaissance aircraft that was shot down near Palau. Resting in shallow water, it is an accessible dive site even for those with limited experience. The aircraft’s fuselage and wings are largely intact, making it easy to identify key features, such as its cockpit and propeller.

This aircraft was likely on a reconnaissance mission when it was intercepted by Allied forces. Its preservation in the water offers a rare opportunity to see a wartime plane up close. Marine life now surrounds the wreck, blending history with nature in a way that fascinates divers and historians alike.

The Amatsu Maru

The Amatsu Maru, a Japanese naval oiler, is one of the largest wrecks in Palau. It lies at a depth of about 130 feet and spans over 500 feet in length. Divers can explore the ship’s expansive cargo holds and deck, as well as its towering superstructure. The wreck is home to a wide variety of marine species, adding to the experience.

Sunk during an air raid in 1944, the Amatsu Maru played a key role in transporting supplies for Japanese naval operations. Its massive size makes it a challenging dive, but it also allows for a more comprehensive exploration of a wartime vessel. The site serves as a poignant reminder of the scale of maritime operations during the war.

Helmet Wreck

The Helmet Wreck, an unidentified Japanese cargo ship, earned its name from the large number of military helmets found scattered across its decks and cargo holds. The wreck lies at a depth of about 100 feet and is relatively well-preserved, allowing divers to see various artifacts, including ammunition, gas masks, and bottles.

The exact history of this ship remains unclear, but it is believed to have been sunk during one of the many Allied air raids on Palau. The presence of so many military items suggests that it was being used to transport supplies for Japanese troops stationed in the area. The wreck offers a haunting glimpse into the everyday equipment used during the war.

Zeke Fighter Plane

The Zeke Fighter Plane, also known as the Mitsubishi A6M Zero, is one of the most famous Japanese aircraft of the war. This particular wreck lies in shallow water, making it an easy dive for beginners. The plane’s fuselage and wings are still intact, and its position on the seabed provides an excellent view of its design.

The aircraft was likely shot down during one of the many aerial battles over Palau. Its iconic status as a Japanese fighter plane makes this wreck a highlight for divers interested in aviation history. Over the years, coral and other marine life have made the wreck their home, creating a beautiful and somber underwater scene.