Dive Site: Walung Drop-Off

About 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. This remote location offers a pristine diving experience characterized by its steep underwater topography and thriving coral ecosystems. Divers can expect to find a rich tapestry of hard corals, creating a vivid backdrop for diverse marine life. The site features dramatic drop-offs and vertical walls, transitioning into productive coral gardens at shallower depths. Visibility is consistently excellent, often ranging from 15 to 30 meters, allowing for clear views of the extensive reef formations. The sheltered location means it provides an easy descent into a vibrant hard-coral garden, suitable for exploring. Walung Drop-Off is home to a variety of fish species, sea turtles, and occasional larger pelagics, making each dive an exciting exploration. The reef is adorned with numerous overlapping hard corals of different colors, providing habitat for a multitude of tropical fish and macro life like popcorn shrimp. Depending on the season, divers may encounter schools of barracuda, reef sharks, and even small hammerheads. Typically accessed by boat, the dive often begins with a drop down the mooring line into the coral gardens. While currents can be moderate, the site's sheltered position on the southwest side of Kosrae makes it a reliable choice. The exceptional visibility and abundant marine biodiversity offer a memorable underwater adventure for divers seeking the untouched beauty of Micronesia.

Dive site facts: Walung Drop-Off

Depth

Up to 30 m

Typical dive

Max 30 m, 50 min

Current

Moderate

Visibility

15–30 m

Water temperature

26–30 °C

Entry

Boat

Level

Intermediate / Advanced

Dive type

Wall, coral garden, drift

Region / port

Kosrae, Federated States of Micronesia

Coordinates

7.7433° N, 147.0536° E

Conditions & Currents

Currents at Walung Drop-Off are typically described as moderate, although the site's sheltered position on the southwest side of Kosrae can offer some protection. Dive guides often lead drift dives, adjusting direction with the flow of the current to maximize exploration. While surge is generally mild, divers should be prepared for varying current strengths, particularly during certain seasons. Visibility remains excellent, consistently ranging from 15 to 30 meters, regardless of current conditions. Water temperatures are warm, between 26°C and 30°C year-round. This dive site is suitable for intermediate to advanced divers who are comfortable with potential currents and can maintain good buoyancy control.

Marine life & sighting chances

Barracuda

common

Reef sharks

common

Sea turtles

common

Small hammerheads

occasional

Clownfish

common

Parrotfish

common

Surgeonfish

common

Wrasses

common

Popcorn shrimp

occasional

Lionfish

occasional

Giant Pacific grouper

occasional

Dogtooth tuna

occasional

Dive profile & how the dive runs

Dives at Walung Drop-Off typically begin with a boat entry, dropping down a mooring line directly into the hard coral garden. Divers will then explore the dramatic vertical wall, often drifting along with the moderate current. The dive route generally follows the contours of the drop-off, allowing for observation of diverse coral formations and fish life. Expect to spend most of the dive along the wall, observing schools of barracuda, reef sharks, and various reef fish. The maximum depth for recreational divers is usually around 30 meters, with the dive progressing to shallower areas towards the end. Safety stops are performed in the shallower parts of the reef or along the wall, depending on current conditions, before ascending for a boat pick-up.

Underwater photography

Walung Drop-Off presents excellent opportunities for both wide-angle and macro photography. For capturing the dramatic wall and extensive coral formations, a wide-angle lens is highly recommended. The abundant hard corals, schools of barracuda, and reef sharks are ideal subjects for wide-angle shots, especially with the clear visibility. Macro photographers will find success exploring the coral gardens for smaller critters like popcorn shrimp and various nudibranchs. Due to moderate currents, good buoyancy control is crucial for stable shots. Strobes are beneficial for bringing out the vibrant colors of the corals and marine life, even in bright 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.

• Trochus Sanctuary

  Trochus Sanctuary is a distinctive dive site located north of the mid-point of Kosrae, southwest of the island's airport.

• Shark Island

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

• 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…

• Blue Hole

  Blue Holes is an iconic dive site in Palau, located near the northwestern end of Ngemelis Island, offering a unique combination of cavern…

Getting there & logistics

To reach Walung Drop-Off, divers typically fly into Kosrae International Airport (KSA) via Honolulu (HNL) or Guam (GUM). Kosrae Nautilus Resort is a popular accommodation option and often arranges dive excursions. Dive sites around Kosrae are generally a short 5 to 30-minute boat ride from one of the island's three marinas. A typical dive day includes two dives with a surface interval for snacks and hydration, returning to the hotel by early afternoon. Permits are not required for diving this site. Dive packages often include tanks, weights, and lunch on the boat. Divers should bring their certification card and be prepared for day-boat operations.

Safety & environment

For dive safety, it is essential to ensure you have comprehensive dive insurance covering medical emergencies and evacuation. The nearest recompression chamber is likely in Guam or Palau, necessitating a potentially lengthy and costly medical evacuation in case of a serious diving incident. Always dive within your training limits and with a reputable local operator. The moderate currents at Walung Drop-Off require good buoyancy control and attentiveness to your dive guide's instructions, especially during drift dives. Always verify local conditions with dive operators, as user-provided information can vary. Emergency oxygen is typically carried on dive boats.

Who it suits — and who it doesn't

FAQ

Walung Drop-Off FAQ

Liveaboards diving Walung Drop-Off

These liveaboards may visit Walung Drop-Off 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

$354/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