Dive Site: Trochus Sanctuary

About Trochus Sanctuary

Trochus Sanctuary is a distinctive dive site located north of the mid-point of Kosrae, southwest of the island's airport. This site is particularly renowned for a significant crevasse that extends perpendicularly from the shore, providing a unique topographical feature for divers to explore. The area is celebrated for its abundant and diverse coral formations, encompassing both hard and soft varieties, which create a highly picturesque underwater environment. The sanctuary operates as a Marine Protected Area (MPA), playing a crucial role in the conservation of marine resources, especially its namesake trochus populations, although current densities are below sustainable benchmarks. Despite this, the healthy coral ecosystems support a thriving fish population. Visibility here is consistently excellent, often ranging from 33 to 66 meters, enhanced by the clear, clean ocean waters surrounding Kosrae. Water temperatures remain warm throughout the year, typically between 27 to 29°C. These pristine conditions allow for an immersive experience, making it feel like diving within a natural aquarium. Divers can anticipate a relatively shallow profile, with maximum depths around 13 meters. This accessibility, combined with mild currents, makes the site suitable for a wide range of diver experience levels, offering a relaxed yet captivating exploration of its rich biodiversity.

Dive site facts: Trochus Sanctuary

Depth

Up to 13 m

Current

Mild

Visibility

30–66 m

Water temperature

27–29°C

Entry

Boat dive

Level

All levels

Dive type

Coral garden, reef, macro

Region / port

Kosrae, Micronesia

Coordinates

7.8683° N, 147.0316° E

Conditions & Currents

The Trochus Sanctuary is characterized by generally mild currents, making for a relaxed diving experience. This site is situated within Kosrae, where dive operators frequently employ a drift diving technique at various sites, towing a surface float and moving with the flow to ensure safety and optimal viewing. However, at Trochus Sanctuary specifically, the currents are noted to be light, which contributes to its suitability for divers of varying experience levels. Visibility is consistently excellent, often exceeding 30 meters, reaching up to 66 meters on clear days due to constant flushing with clear oceanic water, though this site's specific current strength is mild. Water temperatures are stable at 27-29°C.

Marine life & sighting chances

Clownfish

common

Green wrasse

common

Yellow wrasse

common

Parrotfish

common

Surgeonfish

common

Blue tang

common

Butterflyfish

common

Angelfish

common

Polyclad flatworm

occasional

Nudibranch

occasional

Trochus niloticus

common

Dive profile & how the dive runs

Diving at Trochus Sanctuary begins with a boat entry, followed by a descent into a distinct crevasse that runs perpendicular to the shore. This creates a natural pathway to explore the vibrant reef. Divers will navigate along the walls of the crevasse, observing abundant hard and soft corals and numerous reef fish species. The dive is typically shallow, with a maximum depth of approximately 13 meters, allowing for extended bottom times and a relaxed pace. Due to the mild currents, divers can leisurely explore, focusing on macro life like nudibranchs and flatworms. The turn point is flexible, determined by air consumption and bottom time, with an easy ascent and safety stop conducted within the tranquil, shallow waters of the sanctuary before a boat pick-up.

Underwater photography

Trochus Sanctuary is ideal for macro photography, given its rich population of polyclad flatworms, nudibranchs, and clownfish peeking from anemones within the crevasse. A macro lens will allow you to capture intricate details of these smaller subjects. For wider shots of the crevasse and abundant coral formations, a wide-angle lens can also be effective. Utilize strobes to highlight the vibrant colors of the corals and marine life, especially in deeper sections of the crevasse or to add dimension to macro subjects. Excellent buoyancy control is vital here, not only to protect the pristine corals but also to steady yourself for sharp, detailed photographs in the calm conditions.

Combine with nearby dive sites

• Hiroshi Point

  Hiroshi Point is a prominent shore and boat dive site located on the southern end of Kosrae in the Federated States of Micronesia.

• Shark Island

  Shark Island, situated off the remote island of Kosrae in Micronesia, stands as an exceptional destination for experienced divers seeking…

• Walung Drop-Off

  Walung Drop-Off is a well-known dive site situated off the southwest coast of Kosrae in the Federated States of Micronesia.

• The Dwarf Forest

  The Dwarf Forest is a distinctive dive site located off the remote island of Kosrae in Micronesia.

• Split Rock

  Split Rock is a notable dive site located in Kosrae, Federated States of Micronesia, an island renowned for its pristine ocean and vibrant…

Getting there & logistics

Access to Kosrae, Micronesia, typically involves international flights to Guam or Honolulu, followed by connecting island-hopper flights. Dive operators on Kosrae provide guided boat dives to sites like Trochus Sanctuary, which is a short 5 to 30-minute boat ride from the marinas. Daily dive packages usually include tanks, weights, and lunch, with options for two or three dives. Dive boats are well-equipped with shade canopies and oxygen. Kosrae offers an uncrowded diving experience, with permits and fees often managed directly through local dive resorts and liveaboards. Trips often involve staying at a local resort, with daily boat excursions to various dive sites.

Safety & environment

While diving in Kosrae is generally safe due to experienced local divemasters, site-specific hazards are minimal at Trochus Sanctuary given its shallow depth and mild currents. Divers should always carry appropriate dive insurance that covers emergency medical treatment and evacuation, especially given the remote nature of Micronesia. The nearest recompression chamber or advanced medical facility would necessitate evacuation, likely to Guam or a more developed regional center, which can be time-consuming and costly. All divers should maintain excellent buoyancy control to protect the pristine reef and avoid contact with marine life. Adherence to your dive guide's instructions and conservative dive planning are crucial for a safe and enjoyable experience.

Who it suits — and who it doesn't

FAQ

Trochus Sanctuary FAQ

Liveaboards diving Trochus Sanctuary

These liveaboards may visit Trochus Sanctuary on selected itineraries — the exact dive sites depend on departure, weather and conditions.

Palau Siren

Micronesia

16 guests

$501/day

Solitude Gaia

Micronesia

18 guests40 m

$310/day

Palau Aggressor II

Micronesia

18 guests32 m

$292/day

Black Pearl

Micronesia

24 guests

$390/day

Ocean Hunter 3

Micronesia

16 guests29 m

$350/day

Pacific Master

Solomon Islands

20 guests30 m

$268/day