Dive Palau May 15 to 26, 2024
Dive into the rich marine world of Palau, experiencing vibrant coral gardens, awe-inspiring spawning events, and mesmerizing blackwater dives with Cheesemans’ Ecology Safaris.
Discovering Marine Wonders on a Palau Diving Expedition
Embarking on a Palau Diving Expedition offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to explore vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life. In May 2024, a lucky group of divers took part in a one-of-a-kind expedition to Palau, an underwater wonderland in the western Pacific Ocean. Guided by our expert leaders Scott Davis, Richard Barnden, and Macstyl Sasao, they explored the unique Palau National Marine Reserve. Here, science and art intertwine to create a symphony of marine life that few have the chance to experience up close. From sunrise dives with thousands of spawning Red Snapper to nighttime blackwater dives where 100 million tons of biomass rise from the depths, Palau proved to be an enchanting destination like no other.
Although this Palau adventure is not currently our roster, Cheesemans’ has several thrilling aquatic trips lined up that capture the same sense of wonder and excitement. Dive in and experience your next adventure with our Snorkel with Humpback Whales tour in March 2026. Discover more here!
Key Experiences from Our Palau Diving Journey
- A Dance of Life: The Snapper Spawning Event
On the mornings around the full moon, divers descended before sunrise to witness one of nature’s most rhythmic spectacles—the spawning ritual of the Red Snapper. The waters filled with thousands of fish moving in unison, creating a swirling dance. It was a heart-pounding experience for everyone on board, as Blacktip Reef Sharks joined in, adding an extra thrill to the scene. - Blackwater Dives: A Journey into the Abyss
At night, the Palau Siren anchored in the open ocean for an unforgettable blackwater dive. With lights lowered to 15 meters, divers hovered in the darkness, watching as microscopic zooplankton rose from the mesopelagic layers. This incredible migration brings with it an array of mysterious, translucent creatures. Divers were treated to close encounters with jellyfish, comb jellies, and various other species that rarely meet the human eye. - Learning the History of Palau
While Palau is renowned for its stunning underwater landscapes, its military history adds a fascinating layer to its story.
“The overall experience, leader, and group who came to the trip made it wonderful.”
-Logan Walter
May 18: Snorkeling in Lost Lake and Kayaking Through Risong Bay
The journey began with a breathtaking snorkel through a coral-filled tunnel into Lost Lake, a secluded paradise within West Ngeruktabel Island. This magical lake offered our snorkelers a front-row seat to Seahorse Bay, where they encountered exotic marine life like seahorses and shrimp fish—just a glimpse of Palau’s underwater marvels. The following day, the group paddled through the crystal-clear waters of Risong Bay, passing hidden lagoons framed by lush island scenery.
May 19–25 – Onboard the Palau Siren: Dive into Adventure
The liveaboard portion of the Palau Diving Expedition began with a morning check-out dive and quickly escalated into an exhilarating schedule of three to four dives per day, each more breathtaking than the last. Palau’s underwater world offered no shortage of marvels—blue holes, dramatic caverns, colorful coral reefs, and vertical drop-offs teeming with marine life. Every dive felt like a fresh chapter in an underwater odyssey, with surprises waiting at every turn. For photographers, the visibility—often exceeding 100 feet—provided unparalleled opportunities to capture wide-angle shots of Palau’s aquatic grandeur.
Words alone, however, can only begin to convey the magic of a Palau diving expedition. To truly grasp the beauty, diversity, and otherworldly experiences that awaited on each dive, you need to see it for yourself. We’ve compiled a video playlist below to bring you as close as possible to these incredible underwater moments. Watch the schools of snapper swirl in rhythmic unison, the eerie allure of blackwater dives, and the vibrant coral gardens that left our divers in awe. Dive in virtually and let these videos inspire your own Palau diving expedition—it’s the next best thing to being there!
Palau DivingMay 15 to 26, 2024
May 23: A Humbling Visit to Peleliu Island’s WWII Battlefields
On May 23, our group stepped back from the underwater wonders to explore a powerful part of Palau’s history: a tour of Peleliu Island, where one of WWII’s most intense battles took place. Palau served as a pivotal battleground during World War II, leaving behind relics both above and below the surface. A native guide, whose family has called Peleliu home for generations, led us on a drive through this now-peaceful island. With insight and personal stories, he brought to life the realities of the Battle of Peleliu, one of the fiercest and most tragic conflicts of the Pacific theater. The scars of war remain in bunkers, airstrips, and rusting equipment scattered across the island, each piece serving as a quiet memorial to those who fought and sacrificed.
Our guide shared unforgettable stories of courage and sacrifice on both sides, recounting acts of heroism alongside tales of profound loss. His words painted a vivid picture of the days when the island became a contested stronghold, and the lives forever changed by the battle. Standing on the grounds where soldiers once fought, our group was moved by the resilience of Peleliu’s people, who have turned their island into a place of remembrance and healing. This humbling day added depth to our Palau journey, reminding us of the strength of the human spirit amidst unimaginable hardship. Exploring Palau is not only a journey into its marine wonders but also a dive into its rich military history.
Onboard Experience: Life During the Palau Diving Expedition
The luxurious Palau Siren liveaboard offered a comfortable base for our divers. With eight spacious cabins, each featuring climate controls and entertainment systems, the Siren made each evening a relaxing retreat. The onboard crew attended to every need, from arranging nightly dinners on the open-air deck to organizing massage sessions for those looking to unwind after a day of adventure. Between dives, guests gathered in the air-conditioned lounge to review photos, learn from onboard marine lectures, and share stories from their underwater encounters.
“The Palau Siren was great! Plenty of room for all aboard including the crew.” -Logan Walter
Take the Plunge with Cheesemans’ Aquatic Adventures
A Palau Diving Expedition is an unforgettable journey that connects you with the wonders of the underwater world. The wonders of Palau have reminded us of the deep connection we share with the ocean. If you’re inspired by these stories, it’s time to set your sights on Cheesemans’ next unforgettable marine journey.
- Snorkel with Humpback Whales in the Dominican Republic
Experience the majesty of Humpback Whales as you snorkel in the Silver Bank, a sanctuary where these giants gather. Witness mothers and calves, hear their haunting songs, and enjoy an encounter few get to experience. Book your spot for March 2026! - Dive into the Future: Let Us Know Where You’d Like to Go
Are you eager to explore more remote dive locations? Whether it’s a return to Palau or a new aquatic adventure, let us know! Your interests could inspire our next destination.
Join the Adventure:
Book Now for 2026
If you dream of getting up close with penguins, our South Georgia Island and Antarctic Peninsula expedition, departing from Ushuaia, Argentina, is your ticket to an unforgettable adventure! These remote, icy regions are among the best places on Earth to observe a stunning array of penguin species in their natural habitats, often in breathtaking numbers. From the moment we set sail, you’ll be immersed in a world of wildlife wonder, encountering colonies teeming with life—from the comical waddling of Gentoos to the regal presence of King Penguins. Each species is a marvel, with its own unique characteristics, behavior, and charm. Let’s dive into the penguins you might encounter on this journey of a lifetime!
King Penguins: The Royal Residents of South Georgia
When you step ashore on South Georgia Island, you will likely be greeted by the sight—and sound—of thousands of King Penguins. These are striking birds, with their vibrant orange markings and black-and-white bodies highlighted with silver on the black feathers. They comprise the second-largest penguin species in the world, following only the Emperor Penguin.
As you witness their bustling colonies, you’ll see adults nurturing their fluffy, brown chicks, which some think resemble fuzzy teddy bears. They are also called “Oakum Boys”, a name given them by early whalers because their brown downy coats resemble the tarred cotton twine used to seal gaps in wooden ships. The calls of both adults and chicks echos across the beaches, creating a chorus that adds to the wild, untamed beauty of South Georgia Island.
If you are on the trip, be sure to have your camera ready to capture the spectacle of thousands of King Penguins stretching to the horizon.
Gentoo Penguins: The Speedsters of the Ice
Among the easiest penguins to spot on this journey are the Gentoo Penguins. They’re the ones you’ll often see dashing through the water with surprising agility—Gentoos are the fastest-swimming penguins, reaching speeds of up to 22 mph!
Gentoos are playful, curious, and more than willing to interact. On land, they are often seen waddling across the beaches, their bright orange beaks and white headbands making them easy to identify. Watching these determined birds gather pebbles to build their nests is a heartwarming sight.
On our trips, we like to ensure plenty of time to observe their comical antics—whether they’re stealing pebbles or sliding on their bellies!
Chinstrap Penguins: The Bold and Boisterous Neighbors
Named for the distinctive black line running under their chins, Chinstrap Penguins are full of personality! You’ll often find them nesting on steep, rocky slopes, calling to each other with raspy, energetic cries. Their colonies can be loud and chaotic, but they’re also a great place to observe classic penguin behaviors like courtship displays and feeding.
Chinstrap Penguins are skilled climbers and seem to thrive on the rocky, rugged cliffs and shorelines of the sub-Antarctic islands and Antarctic Peninsula, making them an impressive sight to behold.
These penguins are a delight to watch, showcasing both the challenges and wonders of Antarctic life.
Adélie Penguins: The Antarctic Icons
When we reach the Antarctic Peninsula, we enter Adélie Penguin territory. Adélies are the classic “tuxedoed” penguins, sporting a bold black-and-white appearance with white eye rings that give them a perpetual look of surprise.
These small, energetic penguins are fascinating to watch as they leap from ice floes into the frigid waters, often hunting in groups. Adélies are also incredibly social, making them entertaining company as they interact in their colonies. Their determination is inspiring—they can travel hundreds of miles across sea ice during migration!
Their behavior is one of the highlights of any Antarctic journey, perfectly representing the spirit of the frozen south.
Macaroni Penguins: A Lucky Encounter
Spotting the Macaroni Penguin is a special treat—this elusive species is not always a guaranteed sighting, making any encounter particularly thrilling!
These small, colorful penguins are distinguished by their red bills and bright yellow-orange crests, which give them a flamboyant appearance. Their name comes from the resemblance of these feathers to those on men’s hats from the 18th century and called, at the time, macaroni (like in the classic nursery rhyme ‘Yankee Doodle’).
Typically found in smaller, scattered groups, Macaronis are known to nest in more challenging, rocky locations. While they might be harder to find, they are a true delight to encounter.
Macaroni Penguins are one of the best surprises on this journey, so if you take our October 2025 trip with us, keep your binoculars handy!
Emperor Penguins: The Ultimate Bucket-List Sighting
The Emperor Penguin is the crown jewel of Antarctic penguin sightings. While encountering Emperors on this trip is rare, the possibility is tantalizing.
These remarkable penguins, the largest in the world, stand nearly four feet tall, with sleek black-and-white bodies accented by a striking splash of yellow and orange around their necks. They seem almost otherworldly—dignified guardians of their icy realm. Spotting one feels like discovering a hidden gem amidst the snow and ice, commanding both attention and admiration.
Emperors are primarily found farther south, but sometimes an adventurous individual makes its way closer to the Peninsula. If you’re lucky enough to witness their majestic presence, it’s bound to be a trip highlight.
Even if you don’t catch sight of them on our upcoming October 2025 trip, the thrill of possibility keeps every day exciting!
Ready to Meet the Penguins?
South Georgia and Antarctic Peninsula
October 23 to November 14, 2025
From the regal Kings to the elusive Macaronis and the legendary Emperors, every day on this journey offers opportunities to connect with some of the most charismatic birds in the world. If penguins have captured your heart, join us for our next South Georgia and Antarctic Peninsula expedition! It’s the ultimate trip for penguin lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.
Book Your Trip Today!
Don’t miss out on this once-in-a-lifetime adventure! Visit Cheesemans’ Ecology Safaris or call (800) 527-5330 to reserve your spot and start planning your journey to the penguin paradise of the Southern Ocean.
Join the Adventure:
Book Now for 2025
Snorkel with Humpback Whales
March 16 to 23, 2024
Imagine swimming eye-to-eye with one of the ocean’s most awe-inspiring creatures—the humpback whale—while surrounded by the serene beauty of the Caribbean Sea. This incredible encounter is a reality at the Silver Bank, where Cheesemans’ Ecology Safaris offers an exclusive, intimate snorkeling expedition with these gentle giants. Our journey to the Silver Bank is more than just an adventure; it’s an immersion into one of nature’s grandest spectacles.
A Dive into Paradise: Exploring the Silver Bank
The Silver Bank, located off the northern coast of the Dominican Republic, is part of the Sanctuary for the Marine Mammals of the Dominican Republic, one of the few places in the world where humans can snorkel with humpback whales. Every year, from January to April, these whales migrate here to mate, give birth, and nurse their young in the warm, shallow waters.
This trip is an unforgettable opportunity to witness the complex social behaviors of humpback whales. The journey unfolds over seven days and six nights aboard the spacious M/V Turks & Caicos Explorer II, our floating base for exploration and discovery.
Highlights
- Unmatched Whale Encounters: With expert guides and whale researchers on board, guests had the chance to swim and snorkel alongside humpback whales, observing their fascinating behaviors up close. The Silver Bank’s shallow waters (20 to 100 feet deep) provided an ideal setting for in-water interactions, maximizing both visibility and safety. Participants often witnessed everything from mother-calf pairs bonding to the acrobatic breaching displays of courting males. Many described these moments as life-changing, with mother whales sometimes gliding just feet away, calves nestled beside them.
- Small Group Advantage: The trip’s intimacy was unparalleled, with a maximum of just 19 guests. This allowed for personalized opportunities for in-water interactions. Cheesemans’ guides maintained small groups and ensured respectful encounters to protect the safety and well-being of both travelers and whales.
- Daily Snorkeling Expeditions: Each day consisted of two excursions in smaller tenders, designed to bring participants closer to the whales. The dedicated guides facilitated encounters with minimal disturbance, often leading to curious whales approaching swimmers.
“Scott is an absolute superstar – he cared for us at each and every moment. The Aquatic Adventures and boat crew were also very professional, interesting and supportive with a fabulous stream of Dad-jokes from Simon.”
-Elspeth Chasserv
“CES consistently provides unique wildlife experiences at reasonable prices with GREAT guides!”
-Steve Thompson
“Cheesemans’ has always provided me with the kind of trip that I love focused on wildlife experiences.”
-Debbie Thompson
Day 1: “Welcome Aboard!”
After settling into their cabins, travelers attended a safety briefing and enjoyed their first dinner onboard. Due to unfavorable weather, all ships decided to stay in port overnight and set sail for the Silver Bank in the early morning. The group spent the evening getting to know one another, sharing excitement for the upcoming encounters, and learning about the area’s ecology from expert guides.
Day 2: “Anchors Aweigh”
The group enjoyed breakfast as the ship departed for the Silver Bank. On the journey there, they kept an eye out for humpback whales breaching, dolphins swimming alongside the ship, and the occasional sea birds gliding by.
The ship arrived at the Silver Bank in the afternoon and the guides conducted an in-depth briefing on snorkeling safety and whale interaction protocols. Once everyone had their gear ready, they found their tender group and went out for their in-water test run and first whale encounters before dinner.
Day 3: “Into the Blue – First Whale Encounters”
The first full day in the Silver Bank dawned with sunny skies and calm seas, ideal conditions for whale encounters.
- Morning: After breakfast, guests boarded their assigned tenders and set out in search of where the Humpback Whales may be breaching.
- Daytime Adventures: The first snorkeling sessions offered incredible moments as travelers found themselves just feet away from these gentle giants. Some observed mother-calf pairs bonding, while others were thrilled by the sight of breaching and tail-slapping males competing for attention. Guests often described these encounters as surreal, with the sheer size and grace of the whales leaving them in awe.
- Evening: After each day’s excursions, travelers returned to the vessel for a happy hour on the open-air deck while sunsets bathed the ocean in golden light. They shared stories, photos, and insights over relaxed dinners and enjoyed a presentation by the crew on the Silver Bank’s ecology and the whales.
“Floating in the water as a humpback mother and calf swam towards us and veered away at the last moment. Magical!” -Steve Thompson
Days 4-5: “Voices from the Deep – Listening to the Humpback Chorus”
The middle days of the trip offered deeper experiences, with the highlight being the haunting songs of the male Humpbacks.
- Morning: Guides used hydrophones to broadcast the whales’ songs, allowing travelers to listen to the underwater melodies. As the guides explained, these vocalizations were part of the whales’ complex communication and courtship rituals, adding a deeper layer to the experience.
- Daytime Adventures: During snorkeling sessions, travelers often encountered curious young calves that approached them closely, seemingly as interested in the visitors as the visitors were in them. Guests also observed mothers teaching calves how to breach and surface-breathe, offering rare insights into Humpback parenting.
- Evening: Back onboard, naturalists led informative discussions about whale behavior, migration patterns, and conservation challenges. Travelers left with a greater appreciation for the need to protect these magnificent animals and their habitats.
“There was one moment where I felt like it was just me and the baby whale. It wasn’t of course, but it felt like it. Like we were just looking at each other with curiosity. And then she started swimming towards me! Amazing. Just amazing. I swam backwards, as we had been told to do, and she curved away as well, but it was a beautiful moment.” -Elspeth Chasser
Snorkel with Humpback Whales March 16 to 23, 2024
Day 6: “Final Encounters – Bidding Farewell to the Giants”
The last full day on the Silver Bank delivered a blend of excitement and nostalgia as travelers made the most of their final opportunities to snorkel with the humpback whales.
- Morning: With conditions favorable, the last snorkeling excursion brought an unforgettable moment for many travelers, with close encounters as mother whales and their calves glided effortlessly beneath them.
- Afternoon: Following a celebratory lunch on the vessel, the group began the journey back to Puerto Plata. Travelers shared stories of their favorite encounters and reflected on the unique opportunity they had to witness these animals in such an intimate way.
- Evening: The ship arrived back at the marina in Puerto Plata and the group enjoyed one last night aboard. A farewell dinner capped the trip, with toasts to the whales, the crew, and the lifelong memories made on this adventure.
Day 7: “Back to Shore – Returning with Memories”
- Morning: After breakfast, travelers disembarked, exchanging contact information and bidding fond farewells to each other and the crew. They left with a sense of awe and gratitude for the experiences shared over the week.
Unforgettable Highlights of the Silver Bank Expedition
The entire trip offered unparalleled whale encounters, small-group interactions, and daily snorkeling excursions designed to provide maximum in-water time. Expert guides ensured that every interaction was respectful and meaningful, emphasizing conservation and safety at all times. Travelers returned home not only with incredible photographs but also with a profound connection to the ocean’s giants.
Snorkel with Humpback Whales
March 13 to 21, 2026
Join Us for the Next Adventure!
The Silver Bank adventure offered travelers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to snorkel alongside humpback whales in their natural habitat. It was more than just a trip—it was a journey into the wild heart of the Caribbean, filled with awe-inspiring moments and meaningful encounters.
Book your spot today for Cheesemans’ next Silver Bank adventure and create your own unforgettable memories!
For more information and to reserve your spot, visit our website or contact us at (800) 527-5330. We can’t wait to explore the world with you!