Join us for the 12th ANNUAL WREXPEDITION PALAU from June 04 - June 11, 2023. Explore 14 of the most exciting WWII wrecks Palau has to offer during 15 dives - 3 dives per day Learn during our evening events about Palau's WWII history and the ships you will diving while enjoying drinks and great food at Barracuda Restaurant.
The Pacific War of World War II is one of the most intense and fascinating periods of human history. The vast expanse of the Pacific Ocean, dotted with thousands of islands, was the setting for some of the most brutal and decisive battles of the war. And, in Palau, the waters surrounding the islands still hold a rich history, with a number of World War II wrecks that have been preserved as underwater memorials and time capsules. Every year, since 2010, Fish 'n Fins has been organizing the WREXPEDITION PALAU, an event that allows wreck enthusiasts to explore and dive some of the most exciting World War II wrecks that Palau has to offer. In June 2023, join us for the 12th Annual WREXPEDITION PALAU and immerse yourself in the fascinating history of the Pacific War while exploring the underwater world of Palau.
Palau's WWII History
In early 1944, American sea power was beginning to challenge Japan's Pacific frontier territories, and the islands of the Pacific became a key strategic target. With the elimination of the Japanese airforce and the establishment of air superiority by the US, the Japanese fleet in the islands was vulnerable to attack. The result was Operation 'Desecrate One,' a series of airstrikes on the Japanese fleet, which resulted in the sinking of more than 60 Japanese ships in Palau. Subsequent operations, 'Snapshot' and 'Stalemate II,' further decimated the fleet, leading up to the amphibious landings in Peleliu in September 1944.
After the war, the Japanese government was given permission to conduct salvage operations to raise money to pay war claims, and at least 27 of the wrecks were partially or completely salvaged. The remaining wrecks became encrusted with hard and soft corals, acting as artificial reefs and supporting a profusion of marine life in Palau's rich marine environment. With the growth of recreational scuba diving in Palau in the 1970s, the potential of the wrecks became more apparent, and local dive company Fish 'n' Fins, with the help of local brothers Tewid and Tiakl Boisek, who had worked with the salvage teams, located several more during the 1980s and 90s.
The Wrecks of the WREXPEDITION PALAU 2023
Join us for the WREXPEDITION PALAU 2023, where you will dive 14 of the most exciting World War II wrecks that Palau has to offer, including the Iro Wreck, Helmet Wreck, Jake Seaplane, Chuyo Maru, Sata Wreck, Hafa Adai (Half - A - Day), Buoy #6, Amatsu Maru, Ryuko Maru, Gozan Maru, Teshio Maru, Zero Fighter, Nagisan Maru, and T1 - Kaiten.
The diving program will be tentative, depending on winds and visibility, but each day you will have the opportunity to dive three times, exploring the fascinating history and underwater beauty of the wrecks. And, in the evenings, you will learn about Palau's WWII history and the ships you will be diving, while enjoying drinks and great food at Barracuda Restaurant. The WREXPEDITION PALAU is an opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich history of the Pacific War and to explore the underwater world of Palau. Whether you're a seasoned wreck diver or just starting out, join us for this unforgettable experience, and dive into the world of the Pacific War.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the 12th Annual WREXPEDITION Palau is an event not to be missed for any wreck enthusiast. Join us from June 04 - June 11, 2023 as we explore the rich history of Palau's WWII wrecks and dive into the depths of the Pacific Ocean to see the remnants of the past. With 15 dives at 14 of the most exciting WWII wrecks, you will have the chance to witness the beauty and diversity of the marine life that now calls these wrecks home. Not only will you be diving into the history of these wrecks, but you will also have the opportunity to learn more about Palau's role in World War II and the significance of these wrecks during our evening events at Barracuda Restaurant. The experienced dive team at Fish 'n' Fins, who have been leading this expedition since 2010, will guide you on your underwater adventures and make sure you have a safe and unforgettable experience.
Whether you are a seasoned wreck diver or a newcomer to the sport, the 12th Annual WREXPEDITION Palau promises to provide an exciting and educational journey. With the chance to see some of the most iconic wrecks in Palau, including the Iro Wreck, Helmet Wreck, Jake Seaplane, and the Zero Fighter, you will have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the history of one of the most pivotal moments in modern history. So, grab your dive gear and come join us in Palau for the 12th Annual WREXPEDITION. Let's dive into history and explore the remnants of the past, while enjoying the beauty of the present.
