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The USS Emmons is one of Okinawa’s most iconic and challenging wreck dives. This historic World War II destroyer rests at depth and offers an unforgettable experience for highly experienced and properly certified divers.The main attraction of this dive is the wreck itself — its massive structure, historical significance, and dramatic presence underwater make it one of the most impressive wreck dives in Japan.
What Can You See While Diving the USS Emmons?
In the wreck itself sometimes you can find some glass fish, bat fish and nudibranchs but the main purpose of this dive is the wreck itself.
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Large WWII shipwreck structure
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Glass fish and bat fish around the wreck
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Occasional nudibranchs
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Incredible wreck photography opportunities
Diver Requirements for USS Emmons
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Advanced Open Water certification or higher
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Deep Diver Specialty certification required
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Minimum 50 logged dives
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Excellent buoyancy control
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Comfortable with deep diving
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Mandatory check dive the day before
USS Emmons Diving – Key Information
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Dive access: Speedboat
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Dive type: Wreck diving
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Marine conditions: Wreck & photography
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Current: Sometimes strong
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Maximum depth: 40 meters (131 feet)
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Water temperature:
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Winter: 20–23°C (68–73°F)
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Summer: 25–29°C (77–84°F)
What Does a Typical Day Look Like?
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Meeting point at Kouri Island Port – 7:30 AM
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Arrival at the wreck site around 9:00 AM
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First & second dives in the morning
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Return to Kouri Island Port around 2:30 PM
Price & What’s Included
2 Boat Dives – ¥25,000 per person
Included:
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Hotel transfers (Chatan & Kadena area only, for guests without a car)
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Tanks & weights
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Professional dive guide
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Underwater diving photos
Equipment Rental (optional):
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Full equipment set – ¥4,000 per person
(BCD, regulator, wetsuit, fins/boots, mask/snorkel & dive computer)
History of the USS Emmons
During World War II, the USS Emmons was struck by multiple Japanese kamikaze attacks, resulting in significant damage and casualties. To prevent the ship from falling into enemy hands, it was deliberately sunk by Allied forces.
Today, the USS Emmons rests at depth and serves as a powerful underwater memorial and one of the most impressive wreck dive sites in Okinawa. Due to its depth and conditions, this dive is strictly limited to experienced divers only.
Other Popular Dive Sites in Okinawa
Special Dive Trips
Cancellation Policy:
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Up to 7 days before – No cancellation fee
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Up to 5 days before – 25% fee
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Up to 3 days before – 50% fee
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Up to 1 day before – 100% fee
Travel & Dive Insurance
Aloha Divers Okinawa strongly recommends that all guests purchase their own diving and travel insurance. The company is not responsible for injuries or losses sustained during tours.
- DAN – Divers Alert Network https://www.diversalertnetwork.org
Okinawa Code of Conduct
Aloha Divers Okinawa follows the Green Fins Code of Conduct, promoting environmentally responsible diving practices to protect Okinawa’s marine environment.
