Bikini Atoll

Diving Bikini – The Marshall Islands

Bikini Atoll is part of the Republic of the Marshall Islands, which covers nearly 1 million square miles of idyllic emerald-green coral atolls, surrounded by the crystal-blue waters of the Pacific. A one of a kind diving paradise, as it features not only beautiful reefs, corals and wonderful marine life. Above all, it is the final resting place for some of the most significant warships in history. Qualified technical divers may choose from 10, 11 or 13 night itineraries and explore this shipwreck graveyard.

History

In 1946, following the end of World War II, the United States gathered together a “mock” naval fleet in order to test the effects of atomic bomb blasts on a large naval fleet. They named it Operation Crossroads and designated Bikini Atoll to be one of the sites for the explosive tests, with the local inhabitants displaced to another atoll. More Operations followed suit; from land, on the reef, on the sea, from the air and underwater. Between 1946 and 1958, the United States tested a grand total of 67 nuclear weapons on the Marshall Islands, of which ‘Castle Bravo’ on Bikini Lagoon in 1954 is the best-known. This 15-megaton TNT hydrogen atomic bomb was a thousand times more powerful than the bomb dropped on Hiroshima. It left a crater in the lagoon of 2 kilometres wide and 76 metres deep. Bikini Atoll was opened for diving in 1996, allowing divers to experience some of the most historic and unparalleled wreck diving in the world.

Diving Opportunities

Submerged in crystal-clear waters, the remnants of the infamous "ghost fleet" offer a unique blend of history and adventure. With depths exceeding recreational limits, these colossal vessels demand advanced diving skills and meticulous planning. From the imposing USS Saratoga, a majestic aircraft carrier, to the enigmatic USS Apogon submarine, each wreck tells a story of power and resilience. As you explore these underwater giants, you'll encounter thriving marine life that has claimed these steel behemoths as their own.

To fully appreciate the wonders of Bikini Atoll, a solid foundation in technical diving is essential. Advanced certifications and extensive experience are prerequisites for embarking on this extraordinary journey. Prepare to be captivated by the eerie beauty and historical significance of this underwater graveyard.

The following is a sample itinerary of dive sites and wrecks we may visit during your liveaboard safari with Master Liveaboards in Bikini Atoll. The trip aims to show you the very best diving possible, but a number of factors can determine where divers can visit. Weather, tides, currents and other factors play a part in the Cruise Director’s decision of which route the yacht takes.

Your Cruise Director will schedule a minimum of 2 dives per day. The diving day has a typical schedule as follows:

• Breakfast followed by a briefing & Dive 1
• Lunch, relaxation followed by briefing & Dive 2
• Snack, relaxation
• Dinner

Whilst every attempt to ensure that the number of dives scheduled is fulfilled, bad weather can hinder the yacht’s ability to reach a specified dive site in good time. The safety of all on board is paramount and the dive team will always do their best to offering diving at alternate locations should guests be unable to visit those sites listed below.

As most wrecks at Bikini Atoll are beyond recreational depth limits, this itinerary is recommended only for technical divers with previous wreck experience.