.
The Four Seasons Explorer Palau, Micronesia will offer sailings starting October 1, 2023, in an island nation that's been called one of the Seven Underwater Wonders of the World, with nearly 200,000 square miles of protected marine territory for divers and snorkelers to explore.
Four Seasons Explorer previously offered liveaboard diving and surfing trips in the Maldives departing from Four Seasons Landaa Giraavaru or Four Seasons Kuda Huraa.
Set in a remote part of the Pacific Ocean, Palau is home to more than 340 emerald islands, an abundance of marine life, and a 4000-year-old Palauan culture. Only 9 of the country’s 340 islands are inhabited, creating many opportunities for spectacular diving: Palau is often at or near the top of avid diver wish lists. More than 1400 species of fish and 500 species of healthy corals thrive in Palau’s crystal waters and elevated lakes. The nation became the world’s first shark sanctuary in 2009, covering more than 230,000 square miles, while the Rock Islands Southern Lagoon is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Palau’s astonishing spectrum of ocean life make it a paradise for swimming, snorkeling and diving. Bucket-list amazement lies around every corner for divers, from the glittering stalactite formations of Chandelier Cave to the WWII history of Helmet Wreck; the gorgonian fans of Blue Corner to the dazzling canyons of Peleliu Wall. Experiences are equally awe-inspiring for snorkelers: millions of stingless golden and moon jellyfish in Jellyfish Lake; giant 115 kilogram (250 pounds) tridacna clams in Clam City; rabbitfish, turtles and goatfish in the crystal clear Ngedebus Coral Gardens – all accessed via guided excursions with Four Seasons marine biologists.
On land, cultural immersions are handled by insightful guides and include visiting Palau's oldest bai (meeting house); exploring the Badrulchau Stone Monoliths, estimated to date back to the year 161; marvelling at the cave paintings of Ulong Island; discovering the Belau National Museum, multiple WWII sites, traditional music, lush forests, majestic waterfalls, and more.
Recreational activities on offer include windsurfing, stand-up paddling and kayaking, while wellness experiences showcase soothing yoga, breathing and restorative treatments on-board or on a secluded beach. Explorer guests can bathe in mineral-rich mud, learn traditional Palauan fishing techniques, hike, bird-watch or even learn to pronounce a few Palauan phrases.
.
The Four Seasons Explorer
Four Seasons Explorer is a 128 foot luxury catamaran built by Image Marine of Perth, Australia. With a draft of 1.9 metres (6.23 feet), Four Seasons Explorer can access locations that larger vessels can't reach, while its PADI 5-Star Dive Centre ensures expert multi-lingual instructors, the latest gear and onboard videographer, as well as custom-designed dive and excursion boats for direct entry to even the most inaccessible dive sites. Its three decks accommodate up to 22 guests in 10 staterooms with king beds bathed in natural light from large windows, and the lavish Explorer Suite featuring an indoor dining area, walk-in wardrobe and private sundeck with panoramic views across the vessel’s bow. Complete with its own restaurant, bar, lounge and library, Four Seasons Explorer features a dedicated team primed to create customized experiences, including a marine biologist, chefs and spa therapist, plus dive, snorkeling, freediving and water sports experts.
.
Getting to Palau
Palau's main airport, Roman Tmetuchi International (ROR), has nonstop flights from Guam and Manila (United Airlines) and Taipei (China Airlines).
.
Be among the first to experience Palau with Four Seasons Explorer and TravelSort, with a an exclusive Four Seasons Preferred Partner offer:
- For sailings between October 1-December 20, 2023, enjoy complimentary airport and speedboat transfers that coordinate with guest flights to and from Palau Airport (ROR).
Recommended Posts
Four Seasons Yacht to Set Sail in 2025
Best Manta Ray Viewing Dates in the Maldives, 2023
Amanwana Review, Photos, Video
Updated: Top 10 Maldives Luxury Resort Offers 2023
If you enjoyed this, join 200,000+ readers: follow TravelSort on Twitter or like us on Facebook to be alerted to new posts.
Subscribe to TravelSort on YouTube for travel inspiration.
Become a TravelSort Client and Book 5-Star Hotels with Virtuoso or Four Seasons Preferred Partner Benefits
Cultural Explorations
Multi-Destination Discovery
Given its remote location, Palau is ideally experienced in conjunction with other nearby destinations. Palau International Airport in Koror is currently accessible via Taipei, Honolulu, Guam, Manila and Brisbane, with the island nation well placed for further exploration of Australia, the Philippines, Taiwan and other islands of Oceania such as Yap, Chuuk and the Federated States of Micronesia.
.