Palau is one of the most beautiful Pacific Island nations and one of our favorite places to snorkel.
Widely known for its clear turquoise water, a proliferation of schooling fish, large pelagics, sharks, and healthy reefs, this destination is truly spectacular. With hundreds of fish and coral species, the snorkeling is second to none.
Above water our group will explore the lush green limestone formations and their hidden coves and beaches. Palau was pivotal during the Second World War and there are many interesting historical sites to visit including sunken ships which make for curious snorkel sites.
Our Palau Snorkeling Safari is a combination of resort & liveaboard-based, allowing us to explore the archipelago over 7 days of snorkeling and 1 day of overland touring. We’ll begin at The Cove Resort where we’ll spend 4 nights easing into our time in Palau.
During this time we’ll spend 2 days snorkeling some of the more local reefs. We’ll head to a beach spot for lunch and take in the stunning topside scenery as we pass between the islands.
Babeldaob is the largest island in the island nation of Palau and is located northeast of Koror. One of the most undeveloped populated islands in the Pacific, Babeldaob has breathtaking vistas, and landscapes to explore. We’ll take a land tour between snorkeling days – archaeological highlights include the Stone Faces of Ngarchelong, the ancient Stone Monoliths, and the mysterious terraced hillsides. There are also beautiful waterfalls and wilderness to experience along the way.
For the 2nd part of this safari we have chartered the Palau Aggressor II for a 7-night cruise through the island nation’s spectacular waters.
From The Cove Resort we will be transferred to the yacht and slowly begin to circumnavigate Palau’s archipelago. Our itinerary remains completely flexible allowing us to stop and snorkel the very best sites that the country boasts, as well as ensuring there is enough time topside to relax and enjoy our comfortable liveaboard yacht.
The boat is captained and staffed by an experienced crew who knows the area inside out. They know when the water conditions are best to visit the various snorkel sites and understand the currents and tides. There will be experienced guides in the water with snorkelers at all times.
Marine Life Guide
This tour is partnered with Bite-Back. Find out how we support Bite-Back via this tour here.
Day 1 - Arrival to Palau
Upon arrival into Palau, you will be met at the airport and transferred to The Cove Resort for check in. Here you will meet your tour leader and other tour members. Day at leisure.
Day 2 - 3 - Snorkeling from The Cove
Each after breakfast we will board our private snorkel boats for 2 reef snorkeling sessions around the coastal area. Each session will last 60 to 90 minutes and is accompanied by local snorkel guides and your tour leader.
Here you can expect clear water, bright reefs with loads of fish and critters.
Day 4 - Koror Land Tour
After breakfast our local guide will collect us from the resort and we will take a half day tour around the island of Koror. We learn about the island nation’s history and see some of the sights.
Day 5 - Board the Aggressor Liveaboard
We check out of The Cove and board the Aggressor- our home for the coming week.
We will have a boat orientation and safety briefing before setting off from shore.
Day 6 - 11 - Snorkeling from The Aggressor
Each morning we start the day with a continental breakfast (for the early risers- available from 6am), and then a hot breakfast made to order from 7am.
We then have a snorkel site briefing followed by a snorkeling session. Each session will last 60 – 90 minutes and be accompanied by in-water local guides and your group leader. The small tender boat will also be around. If you would like to exit the water sooner or just take a break, you can let your guide know and hop onto the small boat.
Upon exiting the water you can use the on-deck shower and your own designates towel, before enjoying a freshly baked treat and beverage.
After a short break we have another briefing and enter the water for the second snorkel session of the morning.
After this session, we dry off and go inside for lunch- which is usually a hot soup and main course- often buffet style.
Again we have a little relaxation time before being briefed for snorkel 3 of the day.
Upon exiting the water and drying off, hot snacks are served along with beverages.
Some days we will have a second afternoon snorkel, other days night snorkeling will be offered. Occasionally both!
Dinner is a three course affair that is usually plated with table service. Sodas, beers and wines are included and served with the evening meal.
Each day may vary a little but this is what once can generally expect from the liveaboard portion of the tour.
On the last evening onboard we will enjoy a farewell cocktail party with the crew before heading into town for our final group dinner at a local restaurant.
Day 12 - Disembarkation, tour ends
After an early continental breakfast, we disembark and bid farewell to our new friends. We will arrange transfers to the airport or your hotel, if you are staying on in Koror.
The Cove Resort, Koror
After exploring the surrounding reefs of the archipelago, The Cove Resort is the perfect place to relax. There’s a pool and choice of bars and restaurants to enjoy as well as having good access to Koror town. Set near the astonishing views of Rock Island and the Marina, the nautically-themed rooms are outfitted with the modern comforts.
Resort Guide
Palau Aggressor II – Liveaboard
The Palau Aggressor II is a 32m/106′ world class liveaboard yacht complete with 9 cabins which come equipped with private bathrooms, showers and air conditioning. The onboard menu features chef prepared international cuisine catering for all dietary requirements (vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free etc), including soft drinks, beer and wine which are complimentary. As well as a spacious lounge, the ship has a large sun deck, bar, grill and hot tub with internet service available through the satellite system (at an additional fee). At night presentations relating to fish identification, slide shows, games or films will take place in the lounge.
Most snorkel entries are made from the 35’ custom built high speed, outboard skiffs capable of carrying 18 guests for quick access to even the most remote sites. The boarding ladders were designed for convenience to allow for easy exits and entries. The tenders return to the mothership after each snorkel. Between sessions in the water, one can explore secluded beaches, or just relax with a cold drink and mid-morning snack.
Vessel Guide
On this page you will find our Tour Dates & Pricing (see below contact form), a Booking Form and Details of Payment schedule including deposit and final balance. If you have any further questions please complete the form and we will reply within 24-48hrs.
Make an Enquiry or Book this Tour
Tour Dates 2024
3 – 14th April 2024
Price:
$7,075 per person (Twin/Double Share)
Tour Dates 2025
5 – 16 March 2025
Price:
Double/Twin: $7,985 per person
Single Supplement: On request
How to book your place?
Initial deposit to secure your booking $400 per person
12 Months before departure interim payment of $600 per person
6 Months before departure interim payment of $1000 per person
Balance due 3 months before departure
Includes:
- 4 nights accommodation at The Cove Resort (Marina Rock View Room) with breakfast + 2 full days snorkeling + 1 full day overland tour.
- 7 nights accommodation on the Palau Aggressor and full board (all meals)
- Complimentary soft drinks, juice, local wine and beer onboard Aggressor only
- Services of snorkel guide and boat skiff for snorkeling excursions each day
- All transfers and connections from/to Koror International airport
Excludes:
- International flights & visas
- Lunch and Evening meals (lunch is provided on snorkeling days from Cove Resort)
- Palau Green & Airport Departure Tax US$50 (Compulsory to be paid at the airport)
- Snorkel Equipment Rental
- Travel & health Insurance
- Gratuities and Sundries
- $250 Port Fee per person (paid onboard)
*Note: Fees and surcharges are subject to change
