The name "Palau" means 'island' in Malay. In Palauan, it sounds similar to Belau, which means village. The Palau Islands are divided into over 500 islands and surrounded by the vast, sparkling Pacific Ocean, but this archipelago is more than just a chain of islands. Its breathtaking landscape, shrouded in the mysteries of folk tales, offers a yachting experience unlike any other.

The country's bustling capital city, Koror, is the gateway to Palau's wonders. It offers easy access to some of the most stunning attractions, including Jellyfish Lake, where people can swim with harmless golden jellyfish. From there, cruising the UNESCO-listed Rock Islands Southern Lagoon, a group of limestone islets surrounded by turquoise waters, is a must. One of its highlights is the Milky Way, a natural lagoon known for its therapeutic white mud. About 50 nautical miles north of Koror is the northernmost island of Kayangel. Its rural and rustic vibes offer tranquillity away from the bustling crowd of urbanisation.

Several areas around Palau are protected marine sanctuaries. One is the uninhabited isle of Helen Reef, which offers an oasis to teeming wildlife and humans seeking seclusion. Just to the north lies the Mariana Trench and the Challenger Deep, the deepest known point on Earth. This natural marvel is connected to the Palau Trench, which gives life to the colourful marine life beneath its surface. Although these trenches are not accessible for recreational diving, they serve as vital marine habitats that make Palau's surrounding waters so biologically rich.

In addition to marine wildlife, relics from World War II scattered across the islands, from the Nanyo Shrine and Thousand-Man Cave to several sunken WWII ships and planes, provide an excellent opportunity for wreck diving. Furthermore, the ancient sites of Ngarechlong Monoliths and Tet el Bad Stone Coffin are fascinating remnants of Palau's ancient cultures, offering insight into its rich history.

Palau is a country riddled with a humble past, but in every corner, it continuously shines as a country full of wonders. Interested in yachting in Palau? Check our fleet of luxury yacht charters.