Banzai Cliff

Located along Saipan’s northern coast and accessible by boat only during the summer months, this submerged pinnacle gets its name from the towering cliffs hovering a few hundred yards away. While on the surface, it is difficult to look at the memorials atop the bluff or the shear drop of Suicide Cliff in the background and not think of the horror experienced by hundreds of Japanese civilians as they jumped to their deaths during WWII. Underwater the terrain is a continuation of these steep walls as all four sides of the pinnacle drop dramatically from 50 feet to as far as the eye can see with visibility in excess of 200 feet! Strong, unpredictable currents often sweep through this area typically making it an advanced dive while providing the nutrients necessary for large sea fans and anemones to thrive. Here schools of bluefin and bigeye trevally often cruise the drop offs while large snappers hover above the coral peak looking for the perfect snack.

Running time 5:56