Palau

Yacht expeditions > Destinations > South Pacific & Australasia > Palau

Rare finds in the Pacific

Scattered like an emerald necklace in the Pacific Ocean, the Micronesian archipelago of Palau is home to an exhibition of exotic fish and rainbow-coloured coral. Its proximity to both New Guinea and the Philippines has resulted in this cluster of jungle-covered islands containing a remarkable diversity of marine life.

We can begin your underwater exploration in a submersible large enough to accommodate an entire family. Among the treasures to be discovered are Second World War relics that dot the seabed and red snappers that gather to spawn in their thousands with every full moon.

The cold, nutrient rich waters of this region result in striking underwater activity. Our wildlife experts can lead you to vibrant coral gardens and underwater caves for glimpses of Palau’s residents, from the sea-grass grazing dugong to the rare black manta ray.

With a helicopter on board your private yacht, Palau’s unique topography can be revealed from a bird’s eye view. Between these limestone karsts and white sand beaches are a network of lagoons and tunnels to discover alongside the nation’s leading nature experts.

Helicopter sightseeing

Take in the beauty of Palau from above with a helicopter tour over the archipelago’s 70 emerald islands. A bird’s eye view will reveal the country’s unique topography and provide another perspective to the numerous dive sites that lie below.

Manta ray congregation

Watch large gatherings of these graceful giants comb through the ocean for the smallest of prey using their large fins to channel the water into their wide-open mouths. Striking in appearance and calming with their presence, you can get up close to congregations of these inquisitive creatures.

Second World War relics

Dive to the bottom of Palau’s ocean and delve into its jungles to find World War II wrecks. Discover a graveyard of ruined ships, rusty tanks and aircraft that bear witness to the massive US attack against the Japanese imperial war fleet over Palau.

Submersible diving

Plunge into Palau’s abundant waters in a submersible to see its rich marine life. From one of the ocean’s rarest mammals to colourful coral-dwelling fish, be dazzled by an array of majestic creatures.

Coral

From the thin-leafed lettuce coral to feathery polyps that sway like palm trees in the wind, Palau’s underwater garden is a sight to behold. Search for delightful skunk clownfish as they clean themselves on the soft coral and feed on the algae.

Underwater biodiversity

The region’s cold, nutrient-rich waters result in striking underwater activity. Watch for a pod of sperm whales breaching near your private yacht or grey reef sharks, which are both common encounters in Palau.