Diving and shipwrecks in Koror

Palau’s waters around Koror preserve a significant chapter of WWII history alongside unique geological formations. This collection features accessible shipwrecks like the Helmet Wreck and Ryuko Maru, which still contain wartime artifacts and equipment. It also includes Chandelier Cave, a system of four interconnected limestone chambers filled with stalactites. Established dive centers like Fish 'n Fins and Sam's Tours provide the necessary logistical support, equipment, and guided access to these historic sites and the surrounding coral reefs.

Diving & Shipwrecks — Map

A

Chandelier Cave

A system of four interconnected limestone chambers featuring hanging stalactites and stalagmites. Accessible via a short underwater tunnel, the cave contains air pockets where divers can surface to observe the rock formations.

B

Helmet Wreck

A small Japanese freighter discovered in 1990. The wreckage contains stacks of WWII helmets, gas masks, and ammunition, resting on a slope at depths between 15 and 35 meters.

C

Fish 'n Fins Palau

One of Palau’s longest-running dive operators, providing guided excursions to WWII wrecks and reef sites, as well as equipment rentals and nitrox fills.

D

Sam's Tours

A PADI Five Star IDC Center offering guided scuba diving, snorkeling, and kayak tours. The facility includes a full-service dive shop and boat pier.

E

Palau Sea World Dive Center

A professional diving facility offering PADI certification courses, equipment sales, and daily boat trips to popular dive sites around the Rock Islands.

F

Ryuko Maru

A WWII Japanese freighter sunk by air attacks in 1944. The wreck lies upright in approximately 30 meters of water and features visible cargo holds and deck machinery.

G

Neco Marine

A full-service dive center and marina providing boat charters, PADI training, and guided tours to Palau’s major underwater landmarks.

H

Splash Dive Center

A PADI Five Star Dive Center located at the Palau Pacific Resort, offering guided dives, equipment rentals, and instructional courses.

I

Hafa Adai

A WWII Japanese freighter wreck resting in shallow water near the main harbor, accessible for both divers and snorkelers.

J

WWII Shohatsu-class landing craft 小発動艇

A sunken Japanese personnel and equipment transport vessel from WWII. The shallow wreck remains largely intact, showing the structural details of the 14-meter landing craft.

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