Route: Koror (Malakal) – West Passage – Devilfish City – Northern Reefs – Kayangel – Ulong – Ngemelis – Peleliu – Koror (Malakal)
Embarkation & Disembarkation: Malakal, Koror (Roman Tmetuchl International Airport, ROR)
Seasonal Highlight: Selected departures are scheduled around the lunar cycle to maximise opportunities to witness Palau’s extraordinary fish spawning events.
Venture beyond Palau’s renowned southern reefs on this unique expedition combining remote exploration with one of the ocean’s most remarkable natural spectacles. Over ten nights aboard Solitude Gaia, discover the seldom-dived northern reefs, dramatic walls, vibrant channels and the pristine waters surrounding Kayangel, before returning to Palau’s legendary southern dive sites.
Explore hidden corners of the archipelago where thriving coral reefs, manta rays, reef sharks, schooling pelagic fish and untouched underwater landscapes await. Selected departures are carefully timed around the lunar cycle to maximise opportunities to witness Palau’s extraordinary fish spawning events, offering underwater photographers and marine life enthusiasts a rare glimpse into one of nature’s most fascinating behaviours.
Between dives, relax aboard Solitude Gaia as you cruise through the spectacular Rock Islands and remote northern waters, enjoying attentive hospitality while experiencing a side of Palau few divers have the opportunity to explore.
Please note that fish spawning events are natural phenomena influenced by lunar cycles, tides and environmental conditions. While itineraries are planned to maximise opportunities, sightings cannot be guaranteed, and dive schedules may be adjusted to suit prevailing conditions.
Day 1: Palau (Malakal) – Embarkation (No Diving)
Embark from 1700, meet the crew, complete registration and settle into your cabin before enjoying your first evening aboard Solitude Gaia Palau.
Day 2: West Passage & Devilfish Area (Up to 3 Dives)
Begin your expedition exploring Palau’s remote western reefs, where dramatic underwater landscapes, healthy coral formations and abundant marine life await.
Day 3: Devilfish City & Northern Reefs (Up to 4 Dives)
Dive renowned manta ray sites before continuing north to explore rarely visited reefs, walls and channels rich in marine biodiversity.
Day 4: Northern Reefs & Kayangel (Up to 4 Dives)
Explore the pristine northern reefs surrounding Kayangel, where strong currents support vibrant coral gardens, reef sharks and impressive schools of pelagic fish.
Day 5: Northern Reefs & Kayangel (Up to 4 Dives)
Continue discovering Palau’s remote northern frontier, with dive sites selected according to the best tides, currents and marine activity.
Day 6: Northern Reefs & Kayangel (Up to 4 Dives)
Enjoy another full day exploring untouched reefs and dramatic drop-offs before beginning the journey south.
Day 7: Ulong Area (Up to 3 Dives)
Dive the iconic reefs and channels of Ulong while selected departures may coincide with Palau’s remarkable fish spawning events, timed with the lunar cycle.
Day 8: Ulong Area (Up to 3 Dives)
Continue exploring Ulong’s current-swept reefs and vibrant coral gardens, with further opportunities to observe seasonal spawning activity when conditions align.
Day 9: Ngemelis (Up to 3 Dives)
Experience Palau’s legendary southern reefs, including world-famous sites such as Blue Corner and Blue Holes, renowned for exhilarating drift dives and abundant marine life.
Day 10: Peleliu (Up to 3 Dives)
Complete your expedition exploring Peleliu’s dramatic walls and fast-flowing channels before commencing the mandatory minimum 18-hour no-fly surface interval.
Day 11: Palau (Malakal) – Disembarkation (No Diving)
After breakfast, enjoy an optional excursion to Jellyfish Lake, the Milky Way or both (permits required). Lunch is served before disembarkation and farewell to the crew.
Please note: that a permit is required to visit these locations. All itineraries are weather, current, and marine-life dependent, and may be adjusted by the Cruise Director to maximise safety and enjoyment. Marine life sightings are natural encounters and cannot be guaranteed.
Discover the detailed day-by-day schedule of our Northern Discovery & Spawning Event (11 Days / 10 Nights). Download itinerary here.
Full itinerary
Discover the full day-by-day itinerary of our unique 11-day northern discovery and spawning expedition in Palau.
Day 1 Embarkation – Palau Mainland
Boarding for Solitude Gaia Palau begins promptly at 1700 and concludes no later than 1000 on Day 2.
Welcome aboard, Solitude Gaia Palau! After airport or local hotel transfers, you’ll be warmly welcomed by our crew as you settle into your cabin and familiarise yourself with your home for the next 10 nights.
Orientation, safety briefings, and diver registration will follow, where we’ll also collect your National Park and permit fees. Dinner will be served as you relax and get to know your fellow guests.
Our services include complimentary airport and local hotel transfers. As you step onto Solitude Gaia, our team eagerly awaits to greet you. The registration process, including the collection of Permits and National Parks fees, will commence alongside a reminder to bring your C-Cards and/or Log Books. For a comprehensive guide on fees and guidelines, refer to our Know-Before-You-Go document. Both Lunch and Dinner are included in your package.
Day 2 West Passage & Devilfish Area
Gives the opportunity of a possible 2 to 3 dives.
Embarkation concludes at 1000.
Choice of sites: Devil’s Playground / Satan’s Corner / Additional exploration sites
Today, Solitude Gaia Palau will set sail towards the western reaches of Palau’s reefs, venturing into areas seldom visited by divers. These outer reefs, exposed to oceanic currents, offer thriving coral formations, sloping walls, and a wealth of schooling fish. With their remote location, these sites hold a sense of adventure, setting the tone for the exploration ahead.
Days 3 Devilfish City & Northern Exploration
Gives the opportunity of a possible 3 to 4 dives.
Choice of sites: Devilfish City / Northern reef systems under exploration
The day begins with a dive at Devilfish City, where mantas may gracefully appear alongside large schools of fish. In the afternoon, we’ll navigate further north to Palau’s lesser-dived frontier. This area offers a mix of vibrant coral gardens, rugged underwater topography, and the excitement of exploring sites few have visited.
Day 4 -6 Northern Reefs & Kayangel Exploration
Gives the opportunity of a possible 3 to 4 dives each day.
Choice of Sites: Tailtop / Velasco Reef / Kayangel Island reefs / Additional exploratory sites.
Over the next three days, we immerse ourselves in Palau’s remote northern reefs, including the pristine waters surrounding Kayangel Island. These exploratory dives promise a blend of sheer drop-offs, strong currents, and healthy coral gardens bursting with life. This remote region offers schools of barracuda, reef sharks, and vivid hard and soft corals growing in abundance, thanks to the nutrient-rich waters.
Weather permitting, we may also enjoy some time on the shores of Kayangel Island, where white sands meet lush greenery, offering a peaceful break between dives.
Day 7 & 8 Ulong Area & Spawning Event Dives
Gives the opportunity of a possible up to 3 dives.
Choice of Sites: German Channel / Ngedebus Wall /Dexter’s Wall / Ngemelis Coral Garden / Virgin Blue Hole
Arriving at Ulong Island’s picturesque anchorage, we’ll rise to the sight of white sand beaches and the rugged beauty of this island’s limestone cliffs.
Mornings are reserved for the remarkable spawning aggregation dives, timed to the new moon or full moon cycle. These rare events draw thousands of fish into spectacular gatherings, creating a rare and humbling natural spectacle.
Beyond the spawning, we’ll explore the Ulong region’s renowned dive sites, known for sweeping currents, channels teeming with life, and sheer walls adorned with vibrant coral. From gliding sharks to roaming turtles, the marine life here thrives in the fast-moving waters.
Weather and schedule permitting, there’s a chance for a beach visit and perhaps a relaxed BBQ under the stars.
Day 9 Ngemelis Area
Gives the opportunity of a possible 3 to 4 dives.
Choice of sites: Blue Corner / Blue Holes / Additional sites based on conditions
Today we dive the legendary Ngemelis area, home to Palau’s most celebrated dive sites.
At Blue Corner, expect exhilarating drifts where sharks patrol the reef’s edge, and dense schools of snapper and barracuda swirl around you. Nearby, Blue Holes offers a striking cavern dive, where shafts of sunlight pierce through the limestone ceiling, illuminating the vast, cathedral-like space below.
These sites combine thrilling currents, vibrant coral coverage, and abundant marine life, creating signature Palauan diving experiences.
Day 10 Peleliu Area
Gives the opportunity of a possible 2 to 3 dives.
Choice of sites: Peleliu Corner / Peleliu Cut / Peleliu Express
Today marks our final day of diving as we explore the southern reefs of Peleliu, a region known for powerful currents and dramatic underwater topography.
At Peleliu Corner, you’ll experience fast drifts along steep walls, where sharks, tuna, and large pelagic species patrol the blue. Peleliu Cut and Peleliu Express also deliver dynamic dives, with dense coral formations, schooling jacks, and the ever-present sense that something big could pass by at any moment.
(Please note: A minimum surface interval of 18 hours is required before flying after the final dive.)
Day 11 Disembarkation & Optional Tours (No Diving)
No Dive Day
After a hearty breakfast, guests have the option to take a complimentary speedboat tour through the Rock Islands and the Milky Way. Lunch will be served before disembarkation, followed by farewells to the crew. Please note that a permit is required to visit these locations.
Disembarkation commences after lunch and concludes at 1700. During this time, farewells will be exchanged, and our crew will assist with your transportation to the airport. If you prefer to disembark earlier, please be aware that any missed meals, tours, or dives due to this change are non-refundable and non-exchangeable. We look forward to welcoming you back soon!
Please note that the itinerary and planned route may be subject to change due to unfavourable weather conditions, sea conditions, or restrictions imposed by local authorities.
** Route Itinerary subject to change due to inclement weather, sea conditions, and/or restrictions posed by local authorities.
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PALAU
Experience Solitude Gaia Palau, Palau’s premier liveaboard. This 40-meter vessel offers innovative design and comfort, featuring a spa, elegant cabins, gourmet dining, and exciting water toys. Dive into Palau’s pristine waters with unparalleled Solitude hospitality.
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