HMS Sutherland’s crew have a turtle-y awesome time in Guam

Members of HMS Sutherland’s crew enjoyed a rare diving opportunity in Guam – and were photo-bombed by a turtle.

Lieutenant Commander Alexander Knight and Sub Lieutenant David Ferguson also came up close to sharks as a team dived on the world’s only double shipwreck.

Organised by Chief Petty Officer Engineering Technician (Marine Engineering) Jonathan “JC” Cowell, the expedition started by diving the Blue Hole, where the divers swam through a natural hole in the coral reef and exited at a depth of 41m.

 “It was exhilarating; I haven’t dived such a deep hole formation before and the variety of fish we saw as we passed through was amazing,” said Lt Cdr Knight.

Despite enjoying a rewarding second dive where a variety of sea life was spotted, including turtles and sharks, the best was certainly saved for last.

The team descended on the double shipwreck of the WW2 Japanese Imperial Navy Freighter Tokai Maru, which rests on the WW1 German frigate SMS Cormoran.

The two vessels are largely intact, with key features such as the bridge and heavy calibre weaponry still identifiable.

 “To dive on such a renowned and historically important wreck was fantastic; swimming through the hull of the ship at a depth of 25m is an experience I shall never forget,” said Sub Lt Ferguson.

HMS Sutherland continues her Asia Pacific deployment, conducting maritime exercises with allied nations before her next port visit to Japan.