Palau in the western Pacific Ocean is perfect for a liveaboard as the country consists of around 340 islands in the western part of the Caroline Islands. The country has a total area of ​​466 square kilometers, making it the sixteenth smallest country in the world. The most populous island is Koror, home to the country's most populous city of the same name. The capital, Ngerulmud, is located on the largest island, Babeldaob.

The highest point in Palau is Mount Ngerchelchuus, located on the island of Babeldaob, with an elevation of only 242 meters above sea level.

In 2009, Palau created the world’s first shark sanctuary. Palau banned all commercial shark fishing in 80% of its surrounding waters and its exclusive economic zone. This vast sanctuary now protects approximately 600,000 square kilometers of ocean, a size comparable to France. In 2012, Palau received the Future Policy Award, because “Palau is a global leader in protecting marine ecosystems.

Palau's economy is heavily dependent on tourism, with a focus primarily on diving and snorkeling in the island's rich marine environment, including the surrounding reef walls and World War II wrecks.

How much does a liveaboard to Palau cost?

A diving trip to Palau can cost from about 55 – 60 000 SEK / person and upwards for flights, transfers, accommodation and diving. However, it is extremely, if not impossible, difficult to say exactly how much a diving trip to Palau costs without more information about what you want it to include, the layout of the trip, etc. The liveaboards are very different in price ranges as well as the length of the trip, time of year, etc., choice of cabin, etc. There are many variables and you can find them here on our websiteThe best thing to do is to contact us at Scuba Travel and ask for a free proposal for more details and a more accurate price for your diving trip to Palau.

When is the best time to go to Palau?

The best time to visit and dive in Palau is during the dry season, from November to April, especially December to March for stable weather, calm seas and excellent underwater visibility, often over 40 meters. Although diving is possible year-round, the rainy season can have more plankton and visibility is poorer, but on the other hand it attracts manta rays and whale sharks, among others.

o Dry period, November – April
o rainy season, May – October

What can I see when diving in Palau?

Since Palau is now a marine reserve and industrial fishing is prohibited, the chances that you will see sharks on almost every dive are good. There are several species of sharks here, including large species such as whale sharks, tiger sharks and hammerheads, as well as several species of reef sharks. Various rays are common, including mobulas and mantas, and you can sometimes see schools of eagle rays. In addition to sharks and rays, there are other large pelagic species here. 

You can see both fish and marine mammals. Whales and dolphins are examples and with a little luck even dugongs are possible to see. There are over 1400 species of fish and lots of invertebrates. Octopus, giant clams, crustaceans, cnidarians and echinoderms and many more are found here. The reefs are filled with coral and there are tunnels and caves to swim into or through but also exciting wrecks from the Second World War. The feeling of hanging by the reef and looking out into the big blue is very special in Palau.

Where is the best diving in Palau?

The best diving in Palau is probably at Blue Corner. This is a popular dive site known for its sharks and strong currents. This is a really good spot but for more experienced divers.
There is also the German channel where you have cleaning stations where you can see large mantas coming in. Peleliu Wall which is known for large pelagic species and where you can dive in caves. The Chandelier Cave dive site is known for its unique formations and mandaRindfish are also very good.
A very special and unique place and experience is if you try snorkeling in Jellyfish Lake. You can also explore wrecks from World War II such as the Iro Maru Wreck.

When and where are liveaboards and safaris available in Palau?

There are a number of liveaboards but the selection is still relatively limited. Liveaboards in Palau are offered all year round and with slightly different content and programs. Normally the liveaboards last seven to ten nights depending on which route they run and the time of year. Take a look at our liveaboards in Palau and you can read more about our options. Of course you can combine diving with liveaboard with hotels or dive resorts. Contact us with your wishes on tel: 0301-22100.

Extra nights on site

It is very likely, almost certain, that you will need a number of extra nights on the road or on site when you go on a liveaboard in Palau. The flights from Scandinavia probably do not match the liveaboards perfectly and to guard against delays and problems with luggage you should still have at least a couple of nights before your liveaboard. Depending on your flight times, you may need extra nights both before your liveaboard departs but sometimes also after. Possibly an additional night in, for example, Taiwan or the Philippines may be necessary depending on the airline times.