Cheesemans' Ecology Safaris
Exploring the Depths of Palau: An Unforgettable Diving Journey
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.