before you go

Things to know before you visit!
diving in Pohnpei

Location
Pohnpei is located approx. 414 nautical miles north of the equator in the Eastern Caroline Islands of the Western Pacific Ocean. The islands are roughly in the center of a slanting line running between Manila, 2,600 statute miles to the south west and Honolulu, 3,088 statute miles to the northeast. Pohnpei's latitude is 6deg 54' north and its longitude is 158 deg 14' east. The island is 172 nautical miles west of the International Date Line.

Physical Dimensions
Pohnpei is the largest Island in the Eastern Carolines. The State of Pohnpei is comprised of one big island along with eight outlying atolls. Of the state's 345sq kilometers, Pohnpei island accounts for 334. The indented, pentagonal shaped island is surrounded by a reef with 18 passages connecting to the Pacific ocean. Pohnpei's hulking mountains and thick jungle are fringed by dense mangrove forests finally giving way to the surrounding lagoon. the lagoon encompasses a network of lagoons, islets, channels and submerged reefs.

Climate
Warm all year round. Annual temperatures average between 27C/80F to 21C/70F.

Population
Pohnpei has an indigenous population of approximately 35,000.

Language
The working language is English, but most Pohnpeians have their own language when conversing with each other.

Entry Requirements
No visa is required. Entry is permitted with a valid passport and onward airline ticket on arrival.

Currency
The US Dollar is the currency. Most hotels and tour operators accept VISA, Master Card and American Express, but only a few stores will honor those cards. Travelers checks or cash are recommended for restaurants and stores.There are three banks on Pohnpei that will exchange foreign currencies for the US Dollar. Pohnpei has two cash machines.

Bartering and Tipping

Bartering and haggling over prices in Pohnpei is not appropriate. Prices are fixed and payment at that price is expected. Tipping at restaurants and hotels is not expected but appreciated if you feel that someone has done a worthy job.

Health
Pohnpei has no serious infectious diseases .There is no malaria, occasional bouts of leptospirosis, and dengue fever may flare up. Care for basic medical and dental needs is available at the main hospital and rural clinics on Pohnpei.

Drinking Water
The tap water in Pohnpei is potable and tested regularly. However, bottled water is also available in most stores.

Safety of Dive and Tour Operators
Safety is a primary importance to all of Pohnpei's dive operators. There is Naui certified dive masters and require evidence that visiting divers are certified. A lifetime of growing up on the land and the water has taught local guides to respect the elements and know to read the weather and avoid marine and terrestrial hazards. When with a local, trained guide, the careful, sensible traveler should have little to worry about when visiting Pohnpei. Consequently, the Pohnpei Visitors Bureau strongly recommends that visitors purchase travelers insurance before going out with a tour company. If not satisfied then choose another company or insist. that they address the concern before leaving.

A Word of Caution
As in all destinations, travelres should use good sense in keeping their valuables secure at all times. For the most part, crime in Pohnpei is kept at bay by the traditional culture that teaches integrity and respect and remains in tact despite certain influences from the Western world.

Infrastructure and Conveniences
There is a high quality infrastructure with first rate communications and utilities system. Getting around is very easy and communications and amenities are readily available.