Embark on a voyage of discovery aboard the Four Seasons Explorer, a 128-foot luxury catamaran that beckons travelers to uncover the wonders of Palau's marine wilderness. With its former Maldives homeport, the vessel now invites guests to explore the captivating Rock Islands Southern Lagoon of Palau with daily embarkation options and no minimum stay requirement.
This floating haven boasts three decks, 10 staterooms, and the opulent Explorer Suite, providing a range of accommodations for co-adventurers, divers, and cultural explorers. Onboard amenities include a restaurant, bar, lounge, library, PADI 5-Star Dive Centre, and a spa corner, offering a seamless blend of luxury and adventure.
Palau, comprising more than 340 islands, is a haven for marine enthusiasts. Nine inhabited islands contrast with 193,000 square miles of protected waters, representing 80% of the country's marine territory. Notably, Palau stands as the world's first national shark sanctuary, and its Rock Islands Southern Lagoon is a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2012.
Diving enthusiasts can revel in the PADI 5-Star Dive Centre's offerings, exploring renowned sites like Blue Corner, German Channel, Peleliu Wall, Chandelier Cave, and Helmet Wreck. The underwater world, with visibility up to 325 feet, unveils a mesmerizing spectacle with over 1,400 fish species, 500 coral species, and sunken shipwrecks.
Beyond diving, the Explorer caters to diverse interests, offering activities such as snorkeling, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, fishing, and free diving. For a unique retreat, guests can partake in yoga sessions and mineral-rich mud bathing at the Milky Way, a shallow lake nestled between islands.
The journey extends beyond the ocean depths to Palau's rich cultural heritage. Peleliu Island, a mere 7.5 square miles, houses military ruins and World War II memorials, while the main commercial hub of Koror serves as a gateway to the Explorer's offshore adventures.
Palau's allure lies not only in its marine wonders but also in its historical treasures. With a history spanning over 4,000 years, the islands offer glimpses into the past through traditional meeting houses (bai), ancient stone monoliths reminiscent of Micronesia's Easter Island, and vibrant rock paintings on Ulong Island.
The Four Seasons Explorer experience is inclusive, offering onboard accommodations, three meals daily, unlimited diving, water sports, island adventures, daily yoga, and wellness experiences. Flexible arrival and departure times add to the convenience, ensuring a seamless and personalized exploration.
Accessible through international flights via Taipei, Singapore, Honolulu, Guam, Manila, and Brisbane, Palau opens doors to further exploration of Oceania. The Explorer also caters to private yacht charters for up to 26 individuals, including specialized seasonal charters for surf enthusiasts, in collaboration with Tropicsurf. As the Four Seasons Explorer sails through the azure waters of Palau, it beckons travelers to indulge in a unique blend of luxury and adventure, making memories that linger far beyond the horizon.