Route Description - Palau 7 Nights
8 Days 7 Nights
Day 1 – Embarkation in Malakal (No Diving)
Guests begin their journey in Malakal, Koror, with embarkation scheduled between 5:00 PM and 6:00 PM. Upon arrival, they are warmly welcomed by the crew of Solitude Gaia and guided through orientation and registration. Airport and local hotel transfers are provided for convenience. This is a day to settle in, meet fellow guests, and prepare for the adventure ahead.
Day 2 – Wrecks and Caves of Malakal Bay (2–3 Dives)
The first dives take place in Malakal Bay, where Solitude Gaia remains anchored. Divers explore historic World War II wrecks such as the Iro and Hafa Dai, along with the Jake Seaplane wreck. A unique cavern experience awaits at Chandelier Cave, nestled within the rock islands. While visibility here is less than in the outer reefs, the diversity of dive sites adds a compelling layer to the itinerary. In the evening, the vessel sets course southward toward Ulong Island.
Day 3 – Coral Walls and Channels of Ulong (3–4 Dives)
Solitude Gaia anchors off the shores of Ulong Island, known for its white sand beaches and ancient rock art. Divers explore top sites including Sandy Paradise, Ulong Channel, and Siaes Corner—each offering a mix of reef, wall, and current-driven drift dives. When weather and scheduling allow, guests enjoy a beach excursion and a barbecue on shore, enhancing the tropical experience.
Days 4–6 – Reefs and WWII History in Peleliu & Ngemelis (3–4 Dives Daily)
Over the next three days, Solitude Gaia navigates through the southern reaches of the Rock Islands Southern Lagoon (RISL) and the outer reefs of Palau. These days are packed with world-class diving at sites such as Blue Corner, Blue Holes, Peleliu Express, German Channel, Turtle Cove, and New Drop-Off. Expect strong currents, dramatic drop-offs, vibrant coral gardens, and potential manta ray encounters. In addition to diving, guests may opt for a World War II land tour of Peleliu Island, adding historical context to the expedition.
Day 7 – Final Dives at Ngemelis (Up to 3 Dives)
The last dive day centers around the renowned reefs of Ngemelis Island. Sites may include German Channel, Ngedebus Wall, Dexter’s Wall, Virgin Blue Hole, and Ngemelis Coral Garden. These final dives offer a chance to revisit Palau’s underwater wonders before Solitude Gaia returns to Malakal. All divers observe a mandatory minimum 18-hour surface interval before flying.
Day 8 – Scenic Day Tours and Disembarkation (No Diving)
After a hearty breakfast, guests enjoy optional speedboat excursions to Palau’s iconic natural attractions, such as Jellyfish Lake and the Milky Way lagoon. Visiting Jellyfish Lake requires a separate permit. Disembarkation takes place after lunch, with transfers arranged until 5:00 PM. Late check-outs are available upon request and subject to availability.