Rainer Stampfer, President of Global Operations at Hotels and Resorts, expressed excitement about introducing Palau as a destination for the Four Seasons Explorer, partnering with visionary owners, HPL Limited, and collaborating closely with Palau’s government and tourism agencies. Stampfer highlighted the yacht’s commitment to setting a new standard in luxury yachting, emphasizing enriching experiences for guests while upholding respect for the country’s natural splendor.
The Four Seasons Explorer, a 39-meter luxury catamaran boasting three decks, 10 staterooms, the lavish Explorer Suite, and various amenities such as a restaurant, bar, lounge, library, PADI 5-Star Dive Centre, and spa corner, is prepared to curate unforgettable journeys for its guests.
Formerly navigating the Maldives, the Four Seasons Explorer has now made The Rock Islands Southern Lagoon in Palau its homeport. Guests have the flexibility of daily embarkation without a mandatory minimum stay, aided by multiple dive boats and tenders facilitating customized experiences, whether for diving, cultural immersions, or pure relaxation in this tropical paradise.
Palau, a nearly untouched frontier with only nine inhabited islands and a significant portion of its waters protected, boasts the world’s first national shark sanctuary and the UNESCO-designated Rock Islands Southern Lagoon, serving as the backdrop for numerous Four Seasons Explorer encounters.
Underwater Exploration
Palau’s crystal-clear waters offer visibility of up to 100 meters, showcasing a breathtaking underwater realm with over 1,400 fish species, 500 types of healthy coral, and intriguing shipwrecks. The on-board PADI 5-Star Dive Centre caters to divers of all levels, exploring renowned sites like Blue Corner, German Channel, Peleliu Wall, Chandelier Cave, and lesser-known gems.
Additionally, guests can indulge in snorkeling, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, fishing, and free diving. One popular excursion includes Milky Way, a shallow “lake” nestled amid islands, offering a serene setting for yoga sessions and mineral-rich mud bathing.
Exploring the Islands
The lush green islands of Palau beckon Four Seasons guests to hike through jungles to discover hidden waterfalls, observe rare bird species through binoculars, or delve into the region’s history while cycling on Peleliu Island. Peleliu’s diverse terrain encompasses steep elevations, forests, and mangroves, housing endemic bird populations and remnants of World War II, including military ruins and memorials.
Palau’s 4,000-year-old heritage unfolds through traditional meeting houses (bai), the enigmatic Badrulchau Stone Monoliths, and ancient rock paintings on Ulong Island, providing a captivating journey into the past.
Experience and Accommodations
Guests arriving at Koror, Palau’s main commercial hub, are welcomed by Four Seasons representatives and transported to the anchored Four Seasons Explorer. Flexible arrival and departure times complement inclusive rates covering accommodations, three daily meals, unlimited diving, water sports, island adventures, yoga sessions, wellness activities, and engaging events like beach barbecues and expert talks.
The culinary team caters to diverse palates, offering a range of dining experiences, from on-board meals to romantic dinners under starlit skies.
Special Partnership and Opportunities
In a historic move, three young Palauans completed the renowned Four Seasons Maldives Hospitality Apprenticeship, now contributing to Four Seasons Explorer as Guest Services Agents and a Commis Chef. This initiative, initially launched in the Maldives and expanded to Palau in collaboration with the local government, aims to empower youth from both island nations.
Be Among the Pioneers
The opportunity to explore Palau aboard the Four Seasons Explorer awaits, with various opening offers and daily embarkation options.
Private Charters and Further Exploration
Four Seasons Explorer offers tailored private yacht charters in Palau for groups of up to 26 individuals, including specialized seasonal charters for surf enthusiasts in collaboration with Tropicsurf. Considering Palau’s remote location, the nearby accessible Palau International Airport in Koror provides gateways to other Oceania destinations like Yap, Chuuk, and the Federated States of Micronesia.
In conclusion, the Four Seasons Explorer in Palau offers an exclusive opportunity to explore and savor the untouched beauty of this captivating destination, promising an unforgettable journey for those seeking luxury, adventure, and cultural immersion.
Tags: Culinary delights on board, Cultural immersion, Customized experiences, Diving in crystal-clear waters, Eco-adventures, Four Seasons Explorer, Island exploration, Luxury catamaran experience, Marine territory exploration, Rainer Stampfer, Hotels and Resorts, PADI 5-Star Dive Centre, Palau marine wilderness, Palau's rich heritage, Private yacht charters, Rock Islands Southern Lagoon, Snorkeling and kayaking, Surfing adventures, Traditional meeting houses (bai), Underwater wonders, Unspoiled islands, Youth apprenticeship program, serene seas, Four Seasons
