I-169 Submarine - Chuuk (Truk) Lagoon

The I-169 Submarine is a distinctive dive in Chuuk, largely because it’s the only sub wreck in the lagoon. The story here is pretty grim – she was accidentally flooded, and then sunk by Japanese depth charges trying to free trapped sailors, which split her forward section wide open. You’ll find the conning tower lying detached, a little to the side, while the aft section is comparatively whole. It’s an interesting wreck to explore from the outside, but we don’t recommend penetration due to how easily the silt gets stirred up inside. A good site for those interested in the sheer variety of wrecks Chuuk offers.

Location
Chuuk (Truk) Lagoon, Micronesia, Central & South Pacific
Coordinates
7.366700, 151.866700

Best Time to Dive in Chuuk (Truk) Lagoon

The warmest water temperatures in Chuuk (Truk) Lagoon occur in January, averaging 28.9°C. The coolest conditions are in December at 28.9°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 28.9°C (air: 27.8°C)
  • February: 28.9°C (air: 27.7°C)
  • March: 28.9°C (air: 27.5°C)
  • April: 28.9°C (air: 27.5°C)
  • May: 28.9°C (air: 27.7°C)
  • June: 28.9°C (air: 27.5°C)
  • July: 28.9°C (air: 27.5°C)
  • August: 28.9°C (air: 27.7°C)
  • September: 28.9°C (air: 27.7°C)
  • October: 28.9°C (air: 27.9°C)
  • November: 28.9°C (air: 27.9°C)
  • December: 28.9°C (air: 27.9°C)

Nearby Dive Sites in Chuuk (Truk) Lagoon

Nearest Dive Centres to I-169 Submarine

Marine Life in Chuuk (Truk) Lagoon

Home to 213 recorded species including 133 reef fish, 36 hard corals, 17 sea cucumbers, 12 sea snails & nudibranchs, 5 sharks & rays, 4 clams & mussels.

Notable Species

Recommended Packing List for I-169 Submarine

Based on average water temperature of 28.9°C.

  • Shorty or Rashguard - warm 29°C water needs minimal exposure protection
  • Mask - essential for every dive
  • Fins
  • BCD - buoyancy compensator
  • Regulator - your most safety-critical piece of gear
  • Dive Computer - tracks depth, time, and NDL
  • Surface Marker Buoy (SMB) - essential for boat pickups
  • Dive Torch - useful for crevices and colour at depth
  • Underwater Camera - capture your diving memories

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the maximum depth of the I-169 Submarine dive site?
The maximum depth of the I-169 Submarine dive site is currently unknown based on our available data. Divers should consult local dive operators in Chuuk (Truk) Lagoon for the most up-to-date information regarding specific dive profiles.
What can divers expect to see when exploring the I-169 Submarine wreck?
When exploring the I-169 Submarine wreck, divers can expect to see the only known submarine wreck in Chuuk (Truk) Lagoon. The forward section was blown apart, while the conning tower is mostly complete but lies to the side of the submarine. The aft section remains relatively intact, offering a unique glimpse into this historical site.
How difficult is the I-169 Submarine to dive, and is it suitable for recreational divers?
The I-169 Submarine dive site is rated as intermediate difficulty, making it suitable for experienced recreational divers. However, penetration into the wreck is not recommended due to the frequent silt outs that can significantly reduce visibility and pose a hazard. Divers should plan their dive accordingly and respect this important guideline.
What is the best time of year to dive the I-169 Submarine for optimal conditions?
Our current data for the I-169 Submarine does not specify the best time of year for optimal diving conditions. For general information on diving in Chuuk (Truk) Lagoon, we recommend consulting our When to Dive guide or contacting local dive operators directly.
What diving certifications are required or highly recommended to dive the I-169 Submarine?
Given the intermediate difficulty of the I-169 Submarine dive site, an Advanced Open Water Diver certification or equivalent is highly recommended. This ensures divers have the necessary experience and skills for deeper dives and navigating complex wreck environments. Always consult with your chosen dive operator in Chuuk (Truk) Lagoon for their specific requirements.
What are the typical currents and visibility conditions like at the I-169 Submarine dive site?
While specific data on typical currents at the I-169 Submarine dive site is not available, it is important to note that frequent silt outs are a known condition. These silt outs can significantly impact visibility, especially if divers attempt to penetrate the wreck, which is not recommended. Divers should be prepared for potentially reduced visibility conditions.