The Republic of Palau is an island archipelago nation in Micronesia in the far western Pacific Ocean, southeast of the Philippines, northwest of Indonesia, and north of Papua New Guinea. Because of its remote location, it takes at least 24 hours of travel from the West Coast of America to get there.
With approximately 340 limestone islands, islets, and atolls, tropical weather, and world-class diving, Palau is a popular destination worldwide. It’s also known for its swift currents, the result of the confluence of the Indian and Pacific Oceans.
But those currents and their accompanying drift dives are why this area is home to at least 1,450 species of reef fish, over 135 species of sharks and rays, more than 700 varieties of reef-building hard corals and soft corals, and, in particular, Giant Pacific Manta Rays.
All of this is why a group of divers from Marin Scuba Club journeyed halfway around the globe –– over 6,600 miles each way –– to get wet.
Nine Days of Memorable Diving
Barb reported: “Thirteen members returned from nine days of diving in Palau on February 5th. The weather and diving were spectacular.
“Highlights were the Blue Corner where we saw many huge schools of barracuda in addition to sharks. We also loved the German Channel, a destination for Giant Pacific Manta Rays, and the Oolong Channel for its diversity and beautiful corals.
“The sea life was abundant, and the corals were very healthy. Several of us also witnessed the famous snapper spawning, one of the largest aggregations in the world.
“It was a great trip!”
Watch These Two Amazing Videos
MSC members Barb Wambach and Robert L. Nelson shot and edited these incredible videos that you’ve just got to see.
Stay tuned for updates of other MSC dive trips.
Barb Wambach’s Palau Video
Robert L. Nelson’s Palau Video
Palau Royal Resort
