Top Scuba Dive Shops in Palau
#1 - Ocean Hunter Palau
Seen from above, the islands of Palau look like green calligraphy on an empty corner of the sea.
Over 470 miles east of the Philippines and locked in by the stretching Pacific Ocean, Palau is a rare oasis, a self-contained, isolated archipelago thriving with biodiversity and abundance. Palau is the western most island group of a region called the West Caroline Islands, which is part of a larger region called Micronesia.
WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT
The personalized Ocean Hunter I is 20 m (66 ft) custom designed vessel designed by divers, for divers. Ever since 1993 the Ocean Hunter has been family-run by the Bornovskis in Palau, and has hosted such activities from Discovery Channel productions to National Geographic assignments by photographer David Doubilet. The 3 English speaking crew members create a Dive Safari Adventure vacation customized to the desires of the guests.
The roomy but cozy liveaboard Ocean Hunter I offers 7 and 10 night itineraries among the emerald islands of Palau. Hosting only 6 guests at any one time, these Dive Safari Adventure itineraries are highly customizable, offering unlimited diving.
A maximum of 6 guests can be accommodated in the stylish, air conditioned 3 cabins. The private Twin cabin features Bunk beds, there is also a Twin cabin with a King size bed, and a Double cabin with a King and Single bed. All cabins include individual climate control and private en-suite bathroom.
Between the spectacular dives, guests of the liveaboard Ocean Hunter I can relax in the air conditioned main lounge area with a television.
Watch movies or look through your day’s photos from your dives. There is a collection of VHS tapes, DVDs and CDs available for entertainment and guests are invited to bring their own as well. There is also a marine library for learning about native marine species. Take a relaxing nap on the shaded Sun Deck on the cushioned lounge chairs or for those that can’t get enough of the marine sights, Snorkeling, Kayaking and Fishing is offered between dives. Later why not 'Hang out' at the Bar with you favorite drink and discuss the day’s dives.
While most would say the Ocean Hunter I was designed with Divers in mind, we are more apt to believe that it was designed with Photographers in mind. In addition to a spacious camera working area and storage area, the yacht also features 60 electrical outlets (110 & 220v) and overnight E-6 processing.
For those who would rather star in their own photos, an onboard Photo Pro can create individualized High Definition DVDs for an additional fee. Whether you plan to be your own photographer or are willing to let someone else take over, you’ll be happy to have gorgeous photos of many marine species and colorful reefs to show your dive buddies once you return home.
The Ocean Hunter I is unique in the lengths they go through to offer the best cuisine for their guests
Renowned Chef Tova Har-el has developed an incredible gourmet menu whilst specializing as a liveaboard Chef! She caters exclusively to the tastes of hungry Divers. Tova designed the menu to include Cuisine from all around the globe including Palauan, Italian, Mediterranean, French and Japanese - using fresh sashimi and sushi and throws in food recipes from her personal repertoire. Fresh vegetables and fruit are served with every meal, low fat and high in fibre works well for this boat. Vegetarian and specialized diets are accommodated upon request. Snacks will be served in between meals to make sure no guest ever goes hungry aboard the Ocean Hunter I.
HOW TO GET THERE
Please refer to logistics section of each itinerary to find detailed info on how to get there.
#2 - Palau Dive Adventures
#3 - Sam's Dive Tours
#4 - Fish 'n Fins
#5 - S/Y Palau Siren
Palau Siren sailing yacht treats divers to an incredible variety of dive sites whilst transporting them to Pacific island charm in grace and elegance
Dive Safari Adventurers aboard Palau Siren will experience Palau diving at its finest while being pampered in luxury and comfort. Located just southeast of the Philippines, Palau is known for healthy and vibrant Reefs and Walls flourishing with current-rich upwellings. Palau is where 3 of the World's major currents meet, creating a giant influx of menu items for hungry marine creatures. With an amazing abundance of Coral and Sea Anemone species and 1,500 species of fish, Divers will be astounded at the diversity of the Palau waters.
WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT
The magnificent, wooden Palau Siren sailing vessel is 131 feet (40m) long and 32 feet (9.7m) wide. Built on the Indonesian Island of Sulawesi, she is a traditional "gaft rigged Phinisi" handcrafted from ironwood and teak. In order to ensure that the guests have the experience of a lifetime, absolute love for detail was the Palau Siren's goal during construction. The 12 crew members strive to offer the best in terms of underwater experience and leisure-time activities, without compromising any comforts.
There are 3 roomy, air conditioned and exquisite wood-trimmed cabin types aboard the Palau Siren: Twin cabin, Double cabin and Twin or Double cabin. The individually climate controlled heated and cooled cabins include: a personal entertainment audio/visual system, private bathrooms with hot water showers, reading lights, space for clothing, safe, hairdryer, towels, as well as cotton bathrobe.
For activities and entertainment besides the ubiquitous underwater activities, the Palau Siren provides many options. Divers can relax on the shaded Sun Deck or sun bathe on the cushioned lounge chairs. Divers can hang out in the air-conditioned lounge complete with well-stocked Bar and talk about the day’s diving over a Cocktail.
Relax on the comfy sofas while picking a favorite flick from the movie network and watch it on the 42 inch flat screen. Enjoy a book from the library or play game. For more active between-dive experiences, go for a Kayak ride or maybe do some Snorkeling. Visit the onboard Dive Shop or Boutique.
The idea behind the Palau Siren was to have a liveaboard that offers great service and diving
The ship’s concept is holistic in that it wants to ensure that both the underwater and above water experiences are fantastic. Part of this is offering a great selection of Local and nternational foods. The menu was designed by Divers, because they know best which food at what time will provide the best basis for enjoyable and energy-charged diving. Rather than the standard liveaboard food, you will be offered a choice from a buffet served in the elegant covered outdoor dining and refreshment area. Snacks and drinks are offered all day to ensure Divers are well-fueled for their action packed days.
HOW TO GET THERE
Please refer to logistics section of each itinerary to find detailed info on how to get there.