Four seasons explorer: Palau’s hidden adventures by land and sea

Saturday, December 9, 2023

With favorable winds and the guidance of the open seas, Four Seasons joyfully extends an invitation to travelers to uncover the maritime wonders of Palau aboard the Four Seasons Explorer. Eco-adventurers, diving enthusiasts, and cultural explorers now have the opportunity to delve into the pristine wilderness of over 340 islands, vast protected marine territories, and a 4,000-year-old culture. All of this can be experienced while basking in the warmth and hospitality of Four Seasons from the decks of this opulent catamaran.

Rainer Stampfer, President of Global Operations at Hotels and Resorts, expresses the excitement, stating, “For many years, Four Seasons Explorer was a tremendously popular choice for navigating the waters and atolls of the Maldives, and now we are thrilled to unveil the hidden paradise of Palau for the first time through the lens of Four Seasons.”

The Four Seasons Explorer, a 39-meter luxury catamaran boasting three decks, 10 staterooms, including the lavish Explorer Suite, a restaurant, bar, lounge, library, PADI 5-Star Dive Centre, spa corner, and a dedicated team, stands ready to curate unforgettable experiences for guests.

Having relocated from its former Maldives homeport to The Rock Islands Southern Lagoon of Palau, the Four Seasons Explorer now offers the flexibility for guests to embark daily with no minimum stay requirement. Accompanied by dive boats and tenders for convenient shore transport, guests can tailor their stay to include serious diving, cultural immersions, or simply unwinding in this tropical haven.

Armando Kraenzlin, Regional Vice President and General Manager, underscores the unique charm of Palau, stating, “Palau is truly one of the world’s last remaining frontiers, almost untouched by time and now preserved for generations to come thanks to local and international efforts.” The Four Seasons Explorer aligns with the country’s ethos of omengull, respecting all and everything, offering a luxurious experience with genuine heart.

Palau, with only nine inhabited islands and 80% of its marine territory protected, stands as a natural wonder. The Rock Islands Southern Lagoon, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, serves as the backdrop for many Four Seasons Explorer experiences.

Diving enthusiasts can explore Palau’s underwater marvels, with visibility up to 100 meters beneath the waves. The on-board PADI 5-Star Dive Centre caters to all experience levels, offering dives at renowned sites such as Blue Corner, German Channel, Peleliu Wall, Chandelier Cave, and Helmet Wreck. Water lovers can also enjoy snorkeling, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, fishing, and free diving, with unique excursions like the “Milky Way,” offering a warm, milky-blue retreat for yoga sessions and mineral-rich mud bathing.

Onshore adventures in Palau include hiking through lush jungles to hidden waterfalls, bird watching, and exploring historical sites such as Peleliu Island with its military ruins from World War II. The ancient culture of Palau, with traditional meeting houses (bai), Badrulchau Stone Monoliths, and Ulong Island’s rock paintings, provides a captivating journey into the past.

Guests arriving at Palau’s main commercial hub of Koror are seamlessly transported to the Four Seasons Explorer. The flexible arrival and departure times, inclusive rates covering accommodations, three daily meals, unlimited diving, water sports, island adventures, yoga, wellness experiences, and special events, ensure a comprehensive and enjoyable stay.

Highlighting a special partnership, the Four Seasons Maldives Hospitality Apprenticeship now includes three young Palauans who have graduated and embarked on new careers with Four Seasons Explorer. This initiative, in collaboration with the Government of Palau, extends opportunities for youth development in these small island nations.

For those eager to be among the first to explore Palau with Four Seasons Explorer, numerous opening offers and daily embarkation options are available.

Given Palau’s remote location, it pairs seamlessly with nearby destinations. Palau International Airport in Koror is accessible via multiple international routes, making it an ideal starting point for exploring Australia, the Philippines, Taiwan, and other Oceania islands.

For those seeking an exclusive experience, Four Seasons Explorer is available for private yacht charters in Palau, accommodating groups of up to 26. Tailored charters, including dedicated seasonal options for surf enthusiasts with Tropicsurf, promise a personalized and unforgettable journey.

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