As of October 1, 2023, the Four Seasons resort will introduce daily cruises to the western Pacific island nation of Palau on its floating luxury resort Four Seasons Explorer. It will offer daily embarkations and disembarkations, allowing up to 22 guests, a bespoke personalized adventure as per their personal interest.
Palau is a hidden gem in a remote part of the mighty Pacific, home to more than 340 emerald islands, an astonishing spectrum of marine life, and a 4,000-year-old culture still sustained by the local knowledge of 20,000 traditionally minded people keeping alive the Palauan culture. Referred to as one of the Seven Underwater Wonders of the World, with a half million square kilometers (193,000 square miles) of protected marine territory, Palau is ideal for divers and snorkelers. More than 1,400 species of fish and 500 species of healthy corals thrive in Palau’s crystal waters and elevated lakes. The nation became the world’s first shark sanctuary in 2009, covering more than 600,000 square kilometres of ocean (230,000 square miles) while the Rock Islands Southern Lagoon is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Only 9 of the country’s 340 islands are inhabited. Visitors can experience the rich Palauan dance tradition – awash with powerful chanting, storytelling and vibrant colours – to intriguing exploration of WWII sites, symbolic bai meeting houses, and centuries of Spanish, German, Japanese and American influences.
“The core Palauan value of omengull – respecting all and everything – deeply aligns with our values at Four Seasons,” notes Regional Vice President Armando Kraenzlin. “Right from the Palauan Pledge that all visitors are asked to sign upon arrival, visitors are immersed in one of the world’s most unique cultures, founded on tradition and respect. It’s a thrilling paradise for anyone seeking harmony with nature, and the opportunity to learn and embrace the unique Palauan way of life.”
With a draft of 1.9 metres (6.23 feet), Four Seasons Explorer can access locations that larger vessels can’t reach, while its PADI 5-Star Dive Centre ensures expert multi-lingual instructors, the latest gear and onboard videographer, as well as custom-designed dive and excursion boats for direct entry to even the most inaccessible dive sites. Four Seasons Explorer on-shore excursions include visiting Palau’s oldest bai (meeting house); exploring the Badrulchau Stone Monoliths, estimated to date back to the year 161; cave paintings of Ulong Island; the Belau National Museum, multiple WWII sites, traditional music, lush forests, majestic waterfalls, and more.
Recreational activities on offer include windsurfing, stand-up paddling and kayaking, while wellness experiences showcase soothing yoga, breathing and restorative treatments on-board or on a secluded beach. Explorer guests can bathe in mineral-rich mud, learn traditional Palauan fishing techniques, hike, bird-watch or even learn to pronounce a few Palauan phrases.
Multi-Destination Discovery
Given its remote location, Palau is ideally experienced in conjunction with other nearby destinations. Palau International Airport in Koror is currently accessible via Taipei, Honolulu, Guam, Manila and Brisbane, with the island nation well placed for further exploration of Australia, the Philippines, Taiwan and other islands of Oceania such as Yap, Chuuk and the Federated States of Micronesia.
Private Charters
Four Seasons Explorer will also be available for fully customizable private yacht charters in Palau for groups of up to 22 – including dedicated charters for surf enthusiasts with the experts from Tropicsurf, from uncrowded “best-kept secret” breaks on the east and west coast reefs to adventurous “surfaris” off the country’s fringing islands during the winter months.
Bookings have started.
