Hanakawa Maru

Launched in 1943 from the Kawasaki Dockyard for Kawasaki Kisen. The ship was a 4,793 ton freighter about 112 metres long and 15.8 metres wide. It was commandeered by the Navy before entering into its original commissioned purpose. In 1944 it was moored near Tol Island in Chuuk when it hit by torpedo bombers exploding from the aviation fuel with such a show that the Allies thought she was an oil tanker! She lies sloping from 24 to 34 metres. Her location is the most remote of all Chuuk's wrecks. Its impressively intact considering the explosion. There are some drums behind the forecastle. You will see a mast behind hold one and a large hole from the starboard impact. The Bridge can be penetrated through doors in the front behind hold 2. The engine room is aft and makes for a fascinating exploration with its catwalks and ladders. There are two skylights atop the engine room and a few other surprises in the next few holds.