Diving on the Palau Siren
Offering trips ranging from three to 10 nights, most itineraries include a mix of dive sites, including walls, reefs, wrecks, and drift dives. All diving is done from good-sized tenders with no need to fight for space. The dive crew transports all equipment to the tender, where divers can gear up and start their dive.
With up to four guided dives a day, including night dives, divers can also take in Chandelier Cave. Filled with stalactites and stalagmites, the cave is home to a variety of marine life, including sharks, rays, and turtles.
Other standout highlights include the diversity of coral on some of the healthiest reefs in the world, frequent encounters with manta rays, sharks, and other pelagic creatures, and the opportunity to dive the Japanese World War II wreck, the Iro Maru.
The minimum qualification required is an Advanced Open Water. The diving conditions in Palau are excellent, with warm water temperatures, clear visibility, and abundant marine life. The boat is luxurious, comfortable and well-maintained, and the crew of 12 is experienced, helpful, and extremely friendly. All dives are guided and there are three guides on board.
Highlights:
- Regular encounters with mantas, eagle rays, and reef sharks
- Excellent macro and wide-angle photography opportunities
- Diverse range of dive sites
- Nitrox is available for an additional cost
Onboard the Palau Siren
This lovely sailing yacht, measuring 131 feet (40 m), was built by divers for divers. The Palau Siren has eight double-occupancy cabins, accommodating up to 16 guests. All the cabins are ensuite and have individually controlled air conditioning. Fitted out in rich woods, the cabins have comfortable beds, are quite spacious, and have good storage facilities.
The air conditioned salon is spectacular and located on the main deck. Spacious, luxurious and comfortable, common areas are dressed in rich teak with comfortable chairs. Here, guests can relax and socialize. The Palau Siren has a number of entertainment options on board, including a large flatscreen TV, DVD player, and a sound system. There is also a small library and a games room.
Outside, guests can unwind on the huge sundeck while taking in the sunshine and the views. A shaded aft deck offers a place to relax in the shade.
The dive deck is located toward the bow, in front of the salon. It’s well-designed, well-organized, and spacious. There are individual stations, gear racks, and plenty of storage space. The dive deck also features two hot showers and rinse tanks for gear and camera equipment. Crew will transport all equipment from the dive deck to tenders, which transfer guests to the dive site. Divers kit up on the tenders before jumping in.
Highlights:
- Luxurious and comfortable with wood fittings throughout
- Cocktail bar in the salon
- Well-designed dive deck with lots of storage
- Dedicated camera area
Dining onboard the Palau Siren
Dining onboard the Palau Siren is exceptional. Breakfast, lunch and dinner is served in the covered outdoor dining area, which offers spectacular views. Most meals are served buffet-style, with a mix of local and Western cuisine, and there is also a sit-down dinner on one night of the trip.
A light breakfast is served before the first dive with a full breakfast served between the first and second dives. Mid-morning and afternoon snacks are also available.
Special diets can be catered for and two weeks’ notice is requested for special requirements. Wine, beer, and alcohol are not included in the price of the trip, however, guests can purchase drinks from the onboard bar. Tea, coffee, water, fruit juices and soft drinks are all included.
Highlights:
- Excellent quality food with lots of choice
- Alcohol is available though not included
