The dive industry – and in particular the world of technical diving – is mourning the unexpected passing of Truk Master Captain Martin Cridge.
Mik Jennings from Master Liveaboards said in a statement: “It’s with a heavy heart and much sadness that we have to inform everyone that one of the largest characters in Truk Lagoon, and the wreck and tech diving community as a whole, is no longer with us.
“Martin Cridge, Captain of Truk Master and stalwart of Dirty Dozen Expeditions passed away suddenly on Friday 18 June while in the Marshall Islands. His passing is incredibly unexpected and shocking to everyone who knew him and worked with him.
“There are very few people that knew more, or were more passionate, about the wrecks and the diving in Chuuk and Bikini. Anyone who dived with him will have felt his infectious enthusiasm. Everyone who dealt directly with him at Master Liveaboards and The Dirty Dozen felt it too. Martin was absolutely pivotal in us developing Bikini Atoll as a destination for Master Liveaboards as well as building the reputation of Truk Master as a highly respected technical diving operation. Not only this, but he was instrumental in the set up and success of The Dirty Dozen Expeditions in Truk and Bikini.
“The diving world as a whole has lost a celebrated captain, cruise director, technical guru, passionate wreck historian, chamber operator, and just as importantly, possibly the only Huddersfield Town AFC fan in Micronesia. Master Liveaboards and The Dirty Dozen have lost one of their own family and his passing will leave a huge hole in their lives.
“Even more sadly, Martin leaves behind his wife Elaine and young son Tyke. A Go Fund Me page has been created, with the proceeds helping towards repatriating Martin to his adopted home and supporting his family through this time. If anyone wishes to help at this time, then even the smallest donation will be appreciated by everyone involved.”
