Palau Aggressor II Captain's Logs

[Aggressor Adventures]

Palau Aggressor II Captain's Log March 4 - 11, 2012
by Aggressor Fleet on Monday, March 12, 2012 at 10:22am ·
Air Temperature: 83-88 deg
Water Temperature: 81-83 deg F
Visibility: 50-200+ ft
Wetsuits: 3 mil
Weather: Sunny skies, light morning showers, mild winds and calm seas.

Crew this week:
Captain Marc
Chief Engineer Hector
Video Pro Nadia
Skiff Driver Nick
Instructor Andrew
Chef Andrew
Stewardess Agnes

Dolphin Scuba from Sacramento California joins us this week. Early Sunday morning we make a break for the outside reef, holding our debut dive sites within the area of Turtle Cove. Everyone always speaks of Palau’s most popular dive sites such as Blue Corner, German Channel, or the area of Ulong; rarely anyone will make mention of their neighboring dive sites such as Ngedebus Corner, Turtle Cove, or various coral gardens.

The greater majority of dives this week ranged between 80 to 100 feet of visibility. “A beautiful shade of blue”, Josh explains at Turtle Cove. Blue Corner lays home to hundreds of sharks during this time of year, and Ngedebus Corner laid home to the most beautiful display tropical fish I had ever seen within 200 foot radius. It was a mixture of hundreds of triggerfish, cleaner wrasse, parrotfish, surgeonfish and turtles all focused within the very tip of the corner. A three foot cloud of cleaner wrasse covered the top of the plateau performing their own functions. Sectioned areas were cleaning stations for the sweetlips and other fish, while the other wrasse performed their mating rituals.

Josh got to see his long awaited showing of a manta ray this week, and Jon taught me the value of a “Shark Rattle”. With the use of an empty plastic bottle, you can roll it between your hands to make what appears to the sharks as the sound of breaking bones. I couldn’t believe it worked. Within seconds, roughly 20 sharks rushed to my proximity. They were in search of “left overs” from a potential victim to feast upon. To their disappointment they found nothing, but to our delight, we found everything we were looking for.

When you take a step back and get a good look at the full picture; you see that nearly every dive site lays home to the same general array of marine life as you would expect to find within the popular areas. Some dive sites may hold more regular sightings of the various extravagant creatures then others such as the Napoleon wrasse of Blue Corner, or the manta rays of German Channel, but every dive site holds the potential of these unique discoveries. Not only is it about the extraordinary sightings, but it’s also about the interaction and behavior of these creatures that keep Palau in the top dive destinations of the world.

2nd Captain Andrew

 

[Aggressor Adventures]

Palau Aggressor Trip Report March 11-18, 2012

Palau Aggressor Trip Report March 11-18, 2012

Water temp: 81º F
Air Temp: 75-86º F
Visibility: 30 –100+ feet
Crew: Capt. Marc, Chef Andy, Loly, Nadia, John, Jason & Nick

Sunday
A wonderful week of Palauan diving has dawned upon us and the Palau Aggressor is happy to welcome onboard Justice & Liz, Erin & Julie, Martin, Dennis, Kim, Kathrin, Scott, Harvey, Gerald & Lisa, Keith, David, Ron & Melanie, Jim & Bob. After a quick orientation, our guests acquainted themselves with the yacht and each other and then received a peaceful nights rest.

Monday
Weary bodies started appearing to enjoy Chef Andy’s breakfast spread that would fuel our bodies for a great days diving. The Helmet Wreck welcomed us with calm conditions. On the wreck we found an immense amount of soft and hard coral growth that housed nudibranchs, crabs, pipefish & shrimps. We had much to explore including of course the wreck itself. What a fantastic checkout dive.

The wreck of the Iro Maru then gained our attention with anemone fish and nudibranchs taking the center stage. This 470-foot wreck allowed us to spread out and explore many nooks and crannies. The bow gun is quite impressive once your eyes make it out from all the encrusted coral growth on it. Another lovely wreck dive.

During a scrumptious lunch we journeyed over to Ulong Island to explore the wonders of Siaes Corner. This delightful wall is pretty sheer with amazing soft coral and massive sea fans. Some patrolling sharks gained our attention, as did the plethora of anthias on the edge of the wall. We were armed to with reef hooks and with a mild current it was perfect conditions to practice in. We enjoyed the show of grey reef sharks and barracuda with the occasional giant trevally whizzing by. Once the sharks moved on, so did we to explore the beautiful shallows captivating us with tropical fish galore.

After a quick snack in it was time for the famous Ulong Channel. The famous channel lived up to its reputation with sharks, jacks and bait balls cruising by the mouth of the channel. The show was busy and once we saw 15 minutes of pelagic action it was time for a ride down the channel. Sleeping white tips in the sand scurried as we approached them. The most prolific coral life in Palau was seen on this magical ride down the channel. Groupers darted into their coral homes as we whizzed by and then we came across a massive patch of lettuce coral that was simply impressive and then to see 2 beautifully set giant clams was amazing. This was a thoroughly enjoyable dive.

Tuesday
We started to day the right way with a return trip over to Ulong Channel by popular demand. This time the current was a little stronger and just as enjoyable with plenty shark action and amazing life in the channel. Our next dive takes us to Siaes Tunnel. This amazing dive offers both a beautiful tunnel formation and incredible wall in one dive. We started off in the tunnel exploring almost every little crack for little critters. We found a Hilfich’s dart fish and a flat worm. Then as we swam out of the tunnel a whole new world opened up. The wall was rich with colors and fish life. Schools of snapper, anthias and barracuda were waiting for us. Photographers were delighted to be in the middle of all the action.

Time then for lunch and some hammock time and the dive bell beckoned all the divers for some more of Palau’s under water wonders. We decided to visit Fern’s Wall. This stunning wall is filled with all colors imaginable. Soft corals flourished along the wall, which looks like a florist store with exotic colorful flowers set in a perfect bouquet. To top it all the macro life was quite abundant with nudi’s, flat worms and long nose hawk fish, to name a few, along this magnificent sheer wall. Next up was Ngedebus Corner. The late afternoon sun lit up the corner nicely to reveal all the magnificent soft corals and sea fans. A hawks bill turtle made a brief appearance. The wall was also filled with fusiliers and anthias shimmering against the beautiful azure water. This lovely dive brought to a close the days diving.

Wednesday
Morning broke over the rock islands of Palau and it was time to visit Blue Corner. This popular dive showcases much of the best Palau has to offer. From the get go we were greeted by a plethora of black snappers, barracuda and blue lined snapper on the edge of the wall. As we reached the plateau it was time to arm the reef hook and anchor in to enjoy the show. With a fairly mild current, hooking-in was quick and easy. Then black tip reek sharks and white tip reef sharks started making rather close passes. These majestic creatures glided without effort into this moderate current. Then out of the blue a rather affable napoleon wrasse beckoned for attention as he make his way to each of us. After a while we unhooked to explore more of the plateau. The wrasse followed. On the plateau we came across turtle, grouper, a massive school of pyramid butterfly fish and countless anthias and other reef fish. Unfortunately this amazing dive had to end at some point; after all it was time to eat again.

A quick bite to eat and we were off to German Channel. This amazing dive started off with an iridescent pink anemone with anemone fish snuggled up inside. Then we explored the cleaning station and the mouth of the channel, which had a large school of jacks, black snappers and barracuda. Grey reef sharks were cruising by quite often. After enjoying all the schooling fish we took a relaxing ride down the channel as we drifted across stunning coral formations and giant clams. It was then time for lunch.

The dive bell rang. Turtle Cove was our next adventure and this dive had something for everyone. We started the dive penetrating a chimney that popped us out at 70 foot off the wall. Then we discovered nudibranchs and flatworms along the wall. Further along the wall we found ourselves in a forest of beautiful soft coral exhibiting a kaleidoscope of colors. Then as the dive site name suggests the turtles came out to play. Green and hawksbill turtles were swimming off the wall, feeding and some taking their afternoon nap. Speaking of which, it was hammock time for us.

Our next dive adventure took us to New Drop Off. After practicing our hook-in techniques at Blue Corner this was a ‘breeze’. This dive, considered a mini Blue Corner by some, offers fantastic pelagic action. On this occasion it was no different. With crystal clear water we descended into a thick school of pyramid butterfly fish and patrolling reef sharks. We hooked in for a while and watched the sharks cruising by and then enjoyed a casual drift along the plateau where we came across a juvenile rock mover wrasse and a stonefish. A large school of blue line snapper then gained our attention as they hardly even parted as we approached.

Thursday
A beautiful day broke as we journeyed to Blue Holes. A stone throw away from Blue Corner, Blue Holes is an awesome chamber with skylights overhead allowing streams of sunrays in. We perused the chamber looking for little critters and then headed to the corner. We were accompanied by a turtle; white tip reef shark and wall-to-wall pyramid butterfly fish. It was not long before our friendly napoleon wrasse came to greet us. This was another fabulous dive.

The Palau Aggressor then made passage down south to Peleliu Island. Peleliu Corner was up next. This amazing dive allowed us to enjoy the stunning wall with oriental sweetlips in lettuce coral and sharks cruising by. Large schools of black snappers and barracuda came out before we explored the plateau.

Lunch was followed by a little tour. This exceptionally interesting tour took us back in time to September 1944 when the US Marines stormed the beaches of Peleliu. Our guide Godwin had a wealth of knowledge to share with us and showed us the US & Japanese memorial, amtracks, guns, Orange Beach and the 1000 man caves. Very interesting yet sad. After lunch we decided to head to West Wall. Here the unmistakable yellow soft coral got everyone’s attention. This stunning wall, which is very sheer, is filled with color and macro critters. A turtle causally swam by and hardly even noticed this gaggle of divers admiring him. Sharks cruised by us along the wall as did a large spotted eagle ray with pyramid butterfly fish and anthias scattered around us in the glistening sunrays. This was a thoroughly enjoyable dive. Our next adventure takes us to Orange Beach. This wonderful sloping wall housed numerous nudibranchs and flatworms and put to a close a wonderful days diving.

Friday
Morning broke and it was then time for an encore dive at Blue Corner. The same ensemble was back. The action at the corner was again head turning and lively with some exceptionally close passes of grey reef sharks and white tip sharks. Our friend the napoleon wrasse again visited us. We then came across a banded sea snake busy feeding around the coral. It was an amazing dive!

Then it was time for an encore dive at German Channel. Again we were not disappointed and found scad being attacked by sharks and giant trevallys. After all the action we took a leisurely drift into the channel to enjoy the diverse coral life and it was not long before we came across a leopard shark sleeping in the channel. Lunch followed and then the it was time to dive again. Ngemeli’s Wall was a very enjoyable dive with soft corals scattered about and nudis and long nose hawkfish. More sharks were seen cruising below us and tropical fish were abound. What a great dive! By popular demand we took another dive into Blue Corner and enjoyed another spectacular dive there. Dinner and a movie followed where we reminisced fondly on what a wonderful week we had.

Saturday
Our adventure starts with the surreal experience of Jelly Fish Lake. These non-stinging jellies were so thick you could hardly see the person next to you. It felt like we were in another world as we snorkeled around these pulsating critters. Getting our jellyfish fix we decided to enjoy yet another different experience with Chandelier Caves. Only 18 feet deep or so this cave has four chambers that have air spaces where you can pop up and have a chat to your buddy before continuing you dive. Exploring these caves was a wonderful way to end an already fantastic weeks diving in Palau.

We would like to congratulate Gerard for successfully completing the Digital UW Photo class and Bob, Jim and Julie for completing their Nitrox courses! So the week comes to a close. All of us here on the Palau Aggressor wish our friends a safe trip home and a speedy return to eating, sleeping and diving the Aggressor way!

Capt. Marc

 

[Aggressor Adventures]

Palau Aggressor II Captain's Report March 18-25, 2012

Water temp: 81º F
Air Temp: 86-90º F
Visibility: 60–110+ feet
Crew: Capt. Marc, Chef Andy, Agnes, Nadia, John, Hector & Jason

Sunday
A wonderful week of Palauan diving has dawned upon us. The Palau Aggressor is happy to welcome onboard the Russian dive club of SPLAV including Anatoly N, Sergey & Olga, Tony & Nelya, Alexander & Elena, Andrey & Lana, Vladimir & Natalia, Maxim & Irina, Alexey, Vitaly, Andrey & Alexander. After a delightful dinner we followed with the safety orientation and were off to bed for a peaceful nights rest.

Monday
Flat calm conditions inspired us to head out toward the Teshio Maru to set the stage for a wonderful days diving. And that it was. This marvelous check out dive is a favorite wreck dive for many visitors. Everyone chose their comfortable depth to explore this beautiful wreck with an array of hard and soft corals. Nudibranchs and flat worms came out for a leisurely stroll on the metal bits that are now so encrusted with coral that is their home, a school of spade fish and a turtle, unperturbed by our presence, casually swam by. What a fabulous check-out dive.

We returned to the yacht for a snack and a little hammock time and then headed out to the Iro Maru. This larger wreck has much to explore. As we descended we could see the stern gun covered with coral growth. Off to the side of the wreck the glistening of a large school of jacks caught our attention. As we started exploring the deck of the ship we came across some beautiful nudibranchs and stunning soft coral. We then explored the king posts and enjoyed a parade of batfish cruising by.
Another great wreck dive!

After a short journey we arrived at Ulong Island and splashed into the famous Ulong Channel. The famous channel lived up to its reputation with clear water. Sharks, jacks and bait balls cruising by the mouth of the channel as we anchored ourselves with our reef hooks. The show was busy and once we saw 20 minutes of pelagic action it was time for a ride down the channel. Sleeping white tips in the sand scurried as we approached them. The most prolific coral life in Palau was seen on the magical ride. Groupers darted into their coral homes as we whizzed by and then we came across a massive patch of lettuce coral that was simply impressive. This was a thoroughly enjoyable dive. Some more hammock time followed and then we jumped into Ulong Coral Gardens. This dive too was met with great visibility and an extensive collection of table top corals stag horn corals, colorful soft corals and large schools of jacks and snappers. It was quite magical having the late afternoon sunrays glistening through the surface and the dive ended with an incredible sunset. This was a great way to end a wonderful days diving.

Tuesday
A beautiful day broke over Ulong Island. After a tasty breakfast the dive skiff headed to Siaes Tunnel. This amazing dive offers both a beautiful tunnel formation and incredible wall in one dive. We started off in the tunnel exploring almost every nook and cranny for little critters. We managed to find the elusive pigmy blue back butterfly fish and a few flatworms. Then as we swam out of the tunnel a whole new world opened up. The wall was rich with colors and fish life. Schools of snapper, anthias and barracuda were waiting for us. We all delighted in the action. Then it was time for Siaes Corner. We descended into startling clear water again and the colorful wall with magnificent soft corals and giant sea fans emerged. Anthias by the thousands as well as fusiliers and red fang triggerfish completely surrounded us. They ushered us all the way to the hook in point where we took a more stationary vantage point to enjoy the patrolling grey reef sharks. It was quite amazing to watch them gliding effortlessly in the medium strength current and on occasion they made some pretty close passes. The remainder of the dive was spent exploring the plateau and finding a moray eel and turtle.

For lunch we decided to have a picnic on the beach. This idyllic setting of a tropical paradise seemed a perfect place to refuel for more great diving ahead. Next up was Ngerchong Inside. This gem of a dive delivered yet again with a sighting of 2 cuttlefish with one of them laying eggs gently into the staghorn coral. We clearly saw the fruits of her work as the ping-pong ball size eggs were lodged in the coral. We then continued down to a coral bommie with 2 leaf scorpion fish and some feisty damselfish protecting their territory. The remainder of the dive was spent in the shallow reef with sparkling sunrays lighting up the exquisite blue stag horn coral.

With a little snack and some time in the hammocks we took a plunge into German Channel. What an amazing dive that started with a gorgeous pink anemone that gained everyone’s attention. Then we headed to the cleaning station. The activity was frantic. Mantas started appearing. These gentle giants were sweeping in from all directions and barely missing us on occasion. Their grace was just jaw dropping as they flew by us and then hovered inches above the cleaning station. What an amazing spectacle! The famous German Channel did not disappoint. This drew to a close another great days diving.

Wednesday
A beautiful morning broke and it was time for the famous Blue Holes. Blue Holes provided a unique experience with four holes on top of the reef that all lead into one large chamber. From within the holes we looked up and enjoyed the sunrays breaking through the ceiling. Numerous photos were taken. We then exited the holes through a large exit and drifted with the current along a stunning wall toward Blue Corner. Large schools of snapper, barracuda, sharks and giant trevallies were all out and about. A quick snack followed and then the dive bell rang. It was time for Ngedebus Corner. Here we enjoyed a casual swim along the wall finding nudibranchs and flatworms. Here the macro life seemed to be out and about with most of the divers focused on small critters on the wall. Not long after everyone spread out and an eagle ray appeared. Outstanding!
After a delectable lunch and a little break we headed out to Turtle Cove. This dive has something for everyone. We started the dive penetrating a chimney that popped us out at 70 foot off the wall. Then we discovered nudibranchs and flatworms along the wall. Further along the wall we found ourselves in a forest of beautiful soft coral exhibiting a kaleidoscope of colors. Then as the dive site name suggests the turtles came out to play. Green and hawks bill turtles were swimming off the wall, feeding and some taking their afternoon nap. Back to the yacht for a break.

Blue Corner was next. Initially a casual swim along the stunning wall as we headed toward the corner. Along the way the hustle and bustle of giant trevally, barracuda, snapper and pyramid butterfly fish made our heads spin. Then the inbound white tip sharks appeared followed by some large black tip reef sharks, both making extremely close passes. Our friendly napoleon wrasse also came to greet us. Then we decided to explore the plateau with all its life. First we came across a large school of blue lined snapper that would hardly move as we approached. Then large schools of barracuda circled us followed by a very friendly green turtle What a fantastic dive at the corner. Our nocturnal delight was found at Ngedebus Coral Gardens with crabs, nudibranchs and lobsters out. A great way to end the day.

Thursday
A beautiful morning broke as the Palau Aggressor made passage over to Peleliu. We started our day exploring Barracks Point. Blessed with some more amazing visibility we started the dive with a wall dive filled with soft coral, sea fans, cruising sharks and a plethora of tropical fish whizzing by. Then the bottom topography changed on us turning into a sloping wall. Big boulders packed with coral housed some nudibranchs and flatworms. A turtle and eagle ray also made an appearance to make this a very delightful dive.

A quick break and we were off to Peleliu Corner. Peleliu Corner, famous for it’s currents, is not for the faint hearted. We started the dive by cruising along the wall where we were at the mercy of a mild current and simply enjoyed the life that passed us by. Turtle and grey reef sharks seemed to be the main attraction. We then armed our reef hooks and hooked in for a little while to enjoy a more stationary view of the sharks, which came in extremely close. The remaining part of the dive was enjoyed drifting along the plateau.

After lunch we decided to stretch our legs a bit and go on a tour of Peleliu. This exceptionally interesting tour took us back to September 1944 when the US Marines stormed the beaches of Peleliu. Our guide Godwin showed us the US & Japanese memorial, amtracks, guns, Orange Beach and the 1000 man caves. What a touching tour. Lunch and a little nap and it was time to visit West Wall. Here the unmistakable yellow soft coral gets everyone’s attention. This stunning wall, which is very sheer, is filled with color and macro critters. We found a large anemone with tomato anemone fish shyly playing with us and in the same anemone, a large porcelain crab grabbing floating bits of food. A turtle causally swam by and hardly even noticed this gaggle of divers admiring him. Sharks cruised by us along the wall with pyramid butterfly fish and anthias scattered around us. This was a thoroughly enjoyable dive.

Friday
Morning broke with a wonderful sunrise as we headed to Virgin Blue Holes. We stared off exploring this stunning chimney that popped us out on the wall at around 90 feet. We perused this colorful wall and found schools of snapper, bump head parrotfish and sharks off in deeper water. Our next dive adventure takes us to New Drop Off. This dive, considered a mini Blue Corner by some, offers fantastic pelagic action. On this occasion it was no different. With crystal clear water we descended into a thick school of pyramid butterfly fish and patrolling reef sharks. We hooked in for a while and watched the sharks cruising by and then enjoyed a casual drift along the plateau. A large school of blue line snapper then gained our attention as they hardly even parted as we approached. Next up was Ngemelis Wall. This great dive was enjoyed with its rich colors scattered along the wall. Soft corals galore and the macro life was abounding. The photographers found it hard to leave. Snack time again and then back to diving. An encore dive at Blue Corner produced, sharks, large schools of barracuda and our friendly napoleon wrasse that would not leave us. Another amazing dive at the famous corner. What a great way to end a fabulous days diving!

Saturday
Another gorgeous morning broke and our adventure starts with the surreal experience of Jelly Fish Lake. This stratified marine lake houses the unique non-stinging jellies. They were everywhere you looked and it felt like we were in another world as we snorkeled around these pulsating critters. After getting our jellyfish fix we headed back to Koror and meandered through the rock islands and stopped at the famous archway for a photo shoot. Then back to diving. We decided to enjoy yet another different experience with Chandelier Caves. Only 18 feet deep or so this cave has four chambers that have air spaces where you can pop up and have a chat to your buddy or take some photos before continuing your dive. Exploring these caves was a wonderful way to end an already fantastic weeks diving in Palau.

So the week comes to a close. All of us here on the Palau Aggressor wish all our new friends a safe trip home and a speedy return to eating, sleeping and diving the Aggressor way!

Capt. Marc

 

[Aggressor Adventures]

Palau Aggressor II Captain's Report March 25-April 8, 2012

Jim Church School of U/W Photography & Video 2-Week Charter

Surface Temperature: 33º C / 86º F
Water Temperature: 28º C / 82º F
Weather: Mostly sunny skies with scattered showers

Crew: Captain Marc, Engineer Hector, Photo Pro John, Video Pro Nadia, Asst. Instructor Jason, Instructor Andrew, Chef Andrew and Stewardess Agnes

Guests: Michael, Paolo, Douglas, Donna, Larry, Joan, Peter, Merle, Stewart, John, Teresa, Jane, James, Lix, Patrick and Mike & Mike

Michael Haber and Mike Mesgleski of the Jim Church School of Underwater Photography join us for our special two-week charter this year. It consists of an expedition to the unexplored northern areas of Palau, and later making our way down south to the more commonly known areas such as Blue Corner.

Some of our guests earned bragging rights to the sight of a manta ray spotted within a dive site known as “Devil Fish City”. This area is located in the western central state of Palau called Ngardmau. Within the state of Ngardmau, I think everyone understood the full extent of what it means to drift dive. The northern channel of “Aiwokako Passage” packs a powerful punch in beautiful scenery and dramatic seascapes relatively unknown by the general dive community.

Nearly every guest on board owned photo or video equipment of their own. In between dives, as we progress our way up north, Mike and Mike held a captive audience for their debut photography classes. The dives progressed into somewhat of a scavenger hunt for some of our guests. It was a search for the greatest picture in its most raw form.

The corals within the Northwest Reef can be described as nothing less than spectacular, pristine, or as Jim phrased it after the “Southern Corner”, “That was the most beautiful reef I have ever seen”.

We found that the marine life were far more shy than what you would expect. Turtles, Napoleon wrasse and even the little anthias kept their distance. They’ve never seen divers, yet they were curious to see what we were. The sharks had no problem with us. Being the top of their food chain I believe they fear no man or animal. As Captain Marc learned firsthand through the use of a shark rattle. Giving off the sounds of breaking fish bones, he literally came face to face with a whitetip reef shark.

As we progress down south we spend a couple of days within Palau’s central area for wreck dives known as Malakal. There we spent all of Thursday and half of Friday exploring sunken cargo ships, sub chasers, enemy aircraft and finishing off with famous cave dive known as Chandelier Cave. The wrecks of Palau are relatively identical to the wrecks you would expect to find in Truk lagoon. These wrecks come from the same generation of the World War II era. The only real difference is that the good majority of our wrecks lay well within recreational depths for any divers delight.

“Ngerchong Inside” was dubbed the “Best Dive” of the charter, “So far”. As it was described in conversation, “It was like a real life slideshow as we progressed down the reef. It was one unique encounter after another. Leaf scorpionfish, two cuttlefish, pipe fish, octopus and turtles all lined up for our enjoyment.” Later that day Chef Andy prepared a plate lunch for everyone and we made our way out to “Two Dog Beach” on an island just outside of German Channel.

From the beauty of Siaes Corner to the adrenaline rush in Peleliu Corner and Blue Corner, all of our corner dives have been one for the books this week. The group was adored the spectrum of colors in Siaes Corner. A wall covered in sea fans and corals of all colors. Siaes Corner has one of the lushest coral gardens you can ever expect to find upon a plateau.

Upon our Blue Corner and Peleliu Corner dives we all learned the extended use of our reef hooks. Safely secured along the edge of the plateau, we’re consumed by fusiliers and red tooth trigger fish all around us while sharks, Napoleon wrasse, jacks and snappers feed within an eight foot proximity around us. As Mike Haber described our corner dives, “It’s a great way to wake up in the morning”.

On board the Palau Aggressor II, you can see the best of everything. The beauty of a live-a-board diving in Palau is that you have flexibility. It’s the freedom to find the optimum dive of the day and it’s the pleasure of diving these areas as many times as you need to get the full effect of what each dive site has to offer. Majority of Palau’s day boats are restricted to dive sites south west of Palau, whereas the Aggressor holds the freedom to explore Palau in its entirety. From North, South, East and West you can find everything Palau has to offer on board the Palau Aggressor II.

2^nd Captain Andrew

 

[Aggressor Adventures]

Palau Aggressor II Captain's Report -April 8 - 15, 2012

[FONT=&quot]Palau Aggressor Trip Report April 8-15, 2012[/FONT]
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[FONT=&quot] [/FONT]​

[FONT=&quot]Water temp: 81º F[/FONT]
[FONT=&quot]Air Temp: 75-86º F
Visibility: 30 –100+ feet[/FONT]
[FONT=&quot]Crew: Capt. Marc, Chef Cameron, Agnes, Nadia, Marc, Todd & Nick [/FONT]
[FONT=&quot]Sunday[/FONT]
[FONT=&quot]A wonderful week of Palauan diving has dawned upon us and the Palau Aggressor is happy to welcome onboard a wonderful group from Rainbow Scuba: Weerasak, Eric, Phillippe, Riewseng, Kris & Gary, Nick, Oystein, John, Adam, Alex, Ed, Graham, Trevor, Sue, Michelle, Geoffrey & Kai. After a quick orientation, our guests acquainted themselves with the yacht and each other and then received a peaceful night’s rest.
[/FONT][FONT=&quot]
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[FONT=&quot]Monday[/FONT]
[FONT=&quot]Weary bodies started appearing to enjoy Chef Cameron’s breakfast spread that would fuel our bodies for a great days diving. The Helmet Wreck welcomed us with calm conditions. On the wreck we found an immense amount of soft and hard coral growth that housed nudibranchs, crabs, pipefish & shrimps. We had much to explore including of course the wreck itself. What a fantastic checkout dive. The wreck of the Iro Maru then gained our attention with anemone fish and nudibranchs taking the center stage. This 470-foot wreck allowed us to spread out and explore many nooks and crannies. The bow gun is quite impressive once your eyes make it out from all the encrusted coral growth on it. Another lovely wreck dive. [/FONT]


[FONT=&quot]During a scrumptious lunch we journeyed over to Ulong Island to explore the wonders of the famous Ulong Channel. [/FONT][FONT=&quot]The famous channel lived up to its reputation with sharks, jacks and bait balls cruising by the mouth of the channel. The show was busy and once we saw 15 minutes of pelagic action it was time for a ride down the channel and what a ride it was. Sleeping white tips in the sand scurried as we approached them. Groupers darted into their coral homes as we whizzed by and then we came across a massive patch of lettuce coral that was simply impressive and then to see 2 beautifully set giant clams was amazing. The most prolific coral life in Palau was seen on this magical ride down the channel. This was a thoroughly enjoyable dive. [/FONT]


[FONT=&quot]Tuesday[/FONT]
[FONT=&quot]We started to day the right way with a return trip over to Siaes Tunnel. This amazing dive offers both a beautiful tunnel formation and incredible wall in one dive. We started off in the tunnel exploring almost every little crack for little critters. Then as we swam out of the tunnel a whole new world opened up. The wall was rich with colors and fish life. Schools of snapper, anthias and barracuda were waiting for us. Photographers were delighted to be in the middle of all the action.
[/FONT][FONT=&quot]
[/FONT]

[FONT=&quot]Time then for lunch and some hammock time and the dive bell beckoned all the divers for some more of Palau’s under water wonders. We decided to visit Sandy Paradise. This stunning dive greeted us with nice visibility with macro life being quite abundant. Nudi’s, flat worms, long nose hawk fish and crocodile fish came out to play. [/FONT]
[FONT=&quot]Next up was [/FONT][FONT=&quot]Siaes Corner[/FONT][FONT=&quot]. This delightful wall is pretty sheer with amazing soft coral and massive sea fans. Some patrolling sharks gained our attention, as did the plethora of anthias on the edge of the wall. We were armed to with reef hooks and with a mild current We enjoyed the show of grey reef sharks and barracuda with the occasional giant trevally whizzing by. We then took time to explore the beautiful shallows with captivating tropical fish galore. [/FONT]


[FONT=&quot]We decided to visit Ulong Coral Gardens for a relaxing dusk dive and watch the change of shift from day creature to nocturnal ones. This was a wonderful way to end the day![/FONT][FONT=&quot][/FONT]
[FONT=&quot]Wednesday[/FONT]
[FONT=&quot]Morning broke over the rock islands of Palau and it was time to visit [/FONT][FONT=&quot]German Channel[/FONT][FONT=&quot]. This amazing dive started off with an iridescent pink anemone with anemone fish snuggled up inside. Then we explored the cleaning station and we were in for a treat. As we were leaving the cleaning station a graceful giant manta appeared. Effortlessly flapping it’s 3-meter wings and cruising straight for us. It made a few passes over the cleaning station before disappearing into the blue below. That was breathtakingly beautiful. Then we explored the mouth of the channel, which had a large school of jacks, black snappers and barracuda. Grey reef sharks were cruising by quite often. After enjoying all the schooling fish we took a relaxing ride down the channel as we drifted across stunning coral formations. It was then time for lunch. [/FONT]


[FONT=&quot]The dive bell rang. Turtle Cove was our next adventure and [/FONT][FONT=&quot]this dive had something for everyone. We started the dive penetrating a chimney that popped us out at 70 foot off the wall. Then we discovered nudibranchs and flatworms along the wall. Further along the wall we found ourselves in a forest of beautiful soft coral exhibiting a kaleidoscope of colors. Then as the dive site name suggests the turtles came out to play. Green and hawksbill turtles were swimming off the wall, feeding and some taking their afternoon nap. Speaking of which, it was hammock time for us.
[/FONT]

[FONT=&quot]Our next dive adventure took us to Blue Corner. [/FONT][FONT=&quot] After practicing our hook-in techniques at Ulong Channel this was a ‘breeze’. This dive offers fantastic pelagic action. On this occasion it was no different. With crystal clear water we descended into a thick school of pyramid butterfly fish and patrolling reef sharks. We hooked in for a while and watched the sharks cruising by and then enjoyed a casual drift along the plateau where we came across our friend the napoleon wrasse. As playful as always he approached everyone in the group to say “hi”. A large school of blue line snapper then gained our attention as they hardly even parted as we approached. What a fantastic dive! We then took a plunge back into Turtle Cove for out nighttime delight.[/FONT]
[FONT=&quot] [/FONT]

[FONT=&quot]Thursday[/FONT]
[FONT=&quot] The Palau Aggressor then made passage down south to Peleliu Island. West Wall was our first dive of the day. This amazing dive allowed us to enjoy the stunning wall with yellow polyps scattered everywhere along the wall. Giant sea fans and soft coral made beautiful photos and also housed long nose hawk fish and shrimps. The occasional shark and turtle made an appearance and we found numerous nudibranchs and flatworms. Large schools of black snappers and barracuda also came out. [/FONT]
[FONT=&quot]The land tour was next. This exceptionally interesting tour took us back in time to September 1944 when the US Marines stormed the beaches of Peleliu. Our guide Tanji had a wealth of knowledge to share with us and showed us the US & Japanese memorial, amtracks, guns, Orange Beach and the 1000 man caves. Very interesting yet sad. [/FONT]
[FONT=&quot]After lunch we decided to head to Barrack’s Point. This stunning wall starts off very sheer and then turns into a sloping bottom is filled with color and macro critters such as nudis and scorpion fish. A turtle causally swam by and hardly even noticed this gaggle of divers admiring him. Sharks cruised by us along the wall as did pyramid butterfly fish and anthias scattered around us in the glistening sunrays. This was a thoroughly enjoyable dive. Our next adventure takes us to Ngedebus Corner. This wonderful wall housed numerous nudibranchs, flatworms and a forest of soft coral bouquets. This put to a close a wonderful days diving.
[/FONT][FONT=&quot]
[/FONT]

[FONT=&quot]Friday[/FONT]
[FONT=&quot]Morning broke and it was then time for an encore dive at German Channel. Again we were not disappointed and found scad being attacked by sharks and giant trevallys. Then the mantas started appearing. First a large one off in the blue then a baby whizzed by us followed by another getting cleaned at the cleaning station. Unbelievable! [/FONT]
[FONT=&quot]Snack and a bit of hammock time and we were off to Blue Corner. The same ensemble was back. The action at the corner was again head turning and lively with some exceptionally close passes of grey reef sharks and white tip sharks. Our friend the napoleon wrasse again visited us. It was an amazing dive! [/FONT]
[FONT=&quot]After another delectable lunch we visited Blue Holes. A stone throw away from Blue Corner, Blue Holes is an awesome chamber with skylights overhead allowing streams of sunrays in. We perused the chamber looking for little critters and found a disco clam and helfich’s dart fish. We then cruised the wall heading to Blue Corner. We were accompanied by a turtle, white tip reef shark and wall-to-wall pyramid butterfly fish. It was not long before our friendly napoleon wrasse came to greet us. This was another fabulous dive. [/FONT]

[FONT=&quot]Snacks followed and then the it was time to dive again. Ngemeli’s Wall was a very enjoyable dive with soft corals scattered about and nudis and long nose hawkfish. More sharks were seen cruising below us and tropical fish were abound. What a great dive! Dinner and a movie followed where we reminisced fondly on what a wonderful week we had.[/FONT]
[FONT=&quot]Saturday [/FONT]
[FONT=&quot]Our adventure starts with the surreal experience of Jelly Fish Lake. These non-stinging jellies were so thick you could hardly see the person next to you. It felt like we were in another world as we snorkeled around these pulsating critters. Getting our jellyfish fix we decided to enjoy yet another different experience with Chandelier Caves. Only 18 feet deep or so this cave has four chambers that have air spaces where you can pop up and have a chat to your buddy before continuing you dive. Exploring these caves was a wonderful way to end an already fantastic weeks diving in Palau.[/FONT]



[FONT=&quot]We would like to congratulate Adam, Geoffrey, Ed, John, Trevor and Graham for successfully completing the Digital UW Photo class and Kai, Trevor, Ed, Graham, Gary and Alex for completing their Nitrox courses! So the week comes to a close. All of us here on the Palau Aggressor wish our friends from Rainbow Scuba a safe trip home and a speedy return to eating, sleeping and diving the Aggressor way![/FONT]
[FONT=&quot]Capt. Marc[/FONT]
[FONT=&quot] [/FONT]

 

[Aggressor Adventures]

Surface Temperature: 33º C / 86º F
Water Temperature: 28º C / 82º F
Weather: Mostly sunny skies with scattered showers
Crew: Captain Andrew, Engineer/Divemaster Hector, Photo Pro John, Video Pro Todd, Divemaster Marc, Chef Andrew and Stewardess Agnes

Guests: Cyndi, Beth, Asheefa, Max, Marion, Ulri, Ralf, Steve, Jeff, Dave, Chris, Josie, Paul, Esteban and Jacques

A handful of achievements and milestones came about on this charter. Not only did Asheefa complete her Enriched Air Diver course, but she also made her 100^th dive on Palau’s famous “Blue Corner”. Blue Corner made the debut hookin dive of the charter. With the use of our reef hooks, it allowed us to hang within a given area of the wall where numerous sharks, barracuda, jacks, Napoleon wrasse, and snappers all come to feed. For an entire hour long we remained suspended in this area as the marine life engulfed our surroundings.

Beth made her 50^th dive upon one of our most southern dive site called, “West Wall”. It’s an area full of colorful macro critters. Conversations arose over all the various nudibranchs and flatworms within the area. With a sharp eye some came across the local leaf scorpion fish. With the keen eye of our divemaster Hector, we observed the elusive arangatang crab. A crab so well camouflaged it can easily be mistaken for algae.

It was a milestone for some who had never received the chance of seeing a manta ray until one faithful dive within the German Channel. The fearless Jacques also came face-to-face with a banded sea snake… literally face-to-face. So close he could have kissed it.

Nearly everyone had a milestone of some kind to talk about. Whether it’s an intimate moment with a poisonous reptile, or an observation of the most beautiful creature you may ever see, Palau holds a milestone in every divers dream.

Captain Andrew

 

[Aggressor Adventures]

Palau Aggressor II Captain's Report -April 22 - 29, 2012

Palau Aggressor II Captain’s Report April 22 – 29, 2012

Crew: Captain Marc, Photo Pro Ben, Video Pro Nadia, Instructor Todd, Instructor Andrew, Chef Andrew and Stewardess Loly

Guests: Peter, Barbara, James, Kenneth, Sarah, Marjorie, Jacquelyn, Andrey, Natalia, Jack

Zegrahm Expeditions join us this week to explore everything Micronesia has to offer. Palau made their first of two stops within their journey. Before coming aboard, they all partook on a rock island tour by kayak throughout the eastern side of Palau.


A small portion of the group was divers and the rest were all snorkelers. I think the greatest part about this expedition was that regardless to whether you were a snorkeler or diver you still have the chance to see Palau at its very best… Most of the time. The Zegrahm Company hired a second skiff operated by Sam’s Tours that allowed our snorkelers to experience Palau’s reef on their own time.


With the help of their group leader Jack, the group received extensive knowledge regarding Palau’s marine life characteristics and behavior. Not only did our guests learn more about the underwater environment, but we ourselves did as well.


Upon our snorkel atop Ngemelis Wall, Jack pointed out two bird wrasse in the mists of spawning. The large colorful male fidgets and shakes erratically to entice the nearby female in hopes that they might spawn. In due time, the male successfully seduces the female and they continued the process for the final 20 minutes of our snorkel. Meanwhile in the very same location Jack points out the strange interaction between a triggerfish and a surgeonfish. These two fish coming from entirely different backgrounds flaunted about trying to court one another in their own spawning rituals. It was an x-rated snorkel that morning, yet having no children nearby it was accepted for our enjoyment.



Wednesday morning our snorkel team was one up on the dive teams unique sightings. Upon their snorkel within German Channel we found a very large cuttlefish trying to camouflage within its surroundings as we passed by. “Team Snorkel” held bragging rights until later that afternoon when “Team Dive” gazed upon a scalloped hammerhead shark as they rode within the current. It became a tie by the end of the week in unique sightings. As I said before - here in Palau, whether you’re a diver or a snorkeler, you can expect to see the same variety of marine life at the surface as you would at depth… Most of the time.

2^nd Captain Drew

 

[Aggressor Adventures]

Palau Aggressor II Captain's Report -April 29 - May 6, 2012

Theresa and Michael celebrate their honeymoon this charter week while Mike received a deck cake after his morning birthday dive at Blue Holes. We got the very best of Blue Holes dive that day. We begin with the luscious topography of the cavern and chimneys and later catch an ideal current that sent us all down to the northern wall of Blue Corner. It was a two for one dive or maybe we’ll just call it a birthday present for Mike.


Aside from the special occasions, we came across very unique sightings as well. Cuttlefish were mating within Ngedebus Coral Gardens. Blue Corner held the center stage for a feeding frenzy of grey reef sharks and it all began upon the Helmet Wreck. Our debut dive brought us a crocodile fish in plain sight and two thin pipefish who were almost out of sight had it not been seen by our Photo Pro Ben.


Captain Marc divulged his secrets in photography to his student Vanessa who accomplished her Underwater Photography course. Jason and Justin became the newest members of the Nitrox club allowing them to explore the most of our dive sites for longer periods of time.


Whether it’s a milestone, special occasion, unique sighting, or accomplishment, we’ll take care of it here on the Palau Aggressor.

2^nd Captain Drew

Crew: Captain Mike, Divemaster Marc, Photo Pro Ben, Video Pro Nadia, Instructors Todd and Andrew, Chef Andrew and Stewardess Loly

Guests: Richard, Justin, Hiroko, Francesco, Theresa, Rich, Patrick, Daneen, Jason, Koji, Vanessa, Michael, Ken, Mary and Mike

 

[diverdoug1]

Captain Marc, please e-mail me about the strobes, Thanks, Doug Greene

 

[Aggressor Adventures]

Palau Aggressor II Captain's Report - May 6 - 13, 2012

Palau Aggressor Trip Report May 6-13, 2012

Water temp: 81º F
Air Temp: 86-92º F
Visibility: 60–110+ feet
Crew: Capt. Marc, Chef Andy, Agnes, Nadia, Nick, Todd & Dive Master Marc

Sunday
A wonderful week of Palauan diving has dawned upon us. The Palau Aggressor is happy to welcome onboard Fred & Diane, Kevin & Libby, Tara & Bill, Lisa & Jim, Jeannie, Edward, Jim, Jeff & Kathie.

Monday
Flat calm conditions inspired us to head out toward the Teshio Maru to set the stage for a wonderful day’s diving. And that it was. This marvelous check out dive is a favorite wreck dive for many visitors. Everyone chose their comfortable depth to explore this beautiful wreck with an array of hard and soft corals. Nudibranchs and flat worms came out for a leisurely stroll on the metal bits that are now so encrusted with coral that is their home. What a fabulous check-out dive. We returned to the yacht for a snack and a little hammock time and then headed out to Siaes Corner. This amazing little dive site has a little something for everyone. Here we found nudibranchs and flatworms, turtles and sharks. Anthias were scattered along the edge of the wall pulsating with the mild surge. A little down time followed and then the dive bell rang. Ulong Channel was up next. The famous channel lived up to its reputation with sharks, jacks, hump head parrot fish and bait balls cruising by the mouth of the channel as we anchored ourselves with our reef hooks. The show was busy and once we saw 20 minutes of pelagic action it was time for a ride down the channel. Sleeping white tips in the sand scurried as we approached them. The most prolific coral life in Palau was seen on the magical ride. Groupers darted into their coral homes as we whizzed by and then we came across a massive patch of lettuce coral that was simply impressive. This was a thoroughly enjoyable dive. This was a great way to end a wonderful day’s diving.

Tuesday
A beautiful day broke over Ulong Island. After a tasty breakfast the dive skiff headed back to Ulong Channel. Another fantastic dive through the channel with milder current. Then we took a plunge into Siaes Tunnel. This amazing dive offers both a beautiful tunnel formation and incredible wall in one dive. We started off in the tunnel exploring almost every nook and cranny for little critters. We managed to find the elusive pygmy blue back butterfly fish and a few flatworms. Then as we swam out of the tunnel a whole new world opened up. The wall was rich with colors and fish life. Schools of snapper, anthias and barracuda were waiting for us. Photographers were delighted to be in the middle of all the action. For lunch Chef Andy prepared a posh picnic lunch on Long Beach. What an idyllic tropical setting. Then it was time for Ngemelis Wall. This shear wall looked like an artist pallet splashed with stunning color. The soft corals were painted with pastel pinks, purples, yellows and oranges. Sea fans that stretched out off the wall sheltered the stealthy long nose hawk fish; nudibranchs while a large green turtle swam by. A banded sea snake was also found hunting on the edge of the wall. This was a very enjoyable drift dive. A quick break and we jumped into German Channel. From the beginning of the dive we were surrounded by large schools of fish. A massive school of jacks enveloped us followed by a school of barracuda and black snapper. Then the sharks showed up with a half dozen jacks following close behind taking turns rubbing against the shark. They were cleaning the parasites off their body with the sand paper like skin of the shark. After all the action at the mouth of the channel we enjoyed a leisurely drift through the channel. This was a perfect way to end the day.

Wednesday
A beautiful morning broke and it was time for the famous Blue Corner. The dive started with a casual swim along the stunning wall as we headed toward the corner. Along the way the hustle and bustle of giant trevally, barracuda, snapper and pyramid butterfly fish made our heads spin. Then the inbound white tip sharks appeared followed by some large black tip reef sharks, both making extremely close passes. With a mild current, we found it easy to hook in and get into a good position to enjoy the show. Sharks were making close passes with jacks, snappers & red tooth triggerfish scattered in the blue. Our friendly Napoleon wrasse made a special guest appearance too. Then we unhooked and explored the plateau with all its life. First we came across a large school of blue lined snapper that would hardly move as we approached. Then large schools of barracuda circled us followed by a very friendly green turtle that casually swam around the group. What a fantastic dive at the corner. A quick snack followed and then the dive bell rang. Turtle Cove was next. This dive has something for everyone. We started the dive penetrating a chimney that popped us out at 70 foot off the wall. Then we discovered nudibranchs and flatworms along the wall. Further along the wall we found ourselves in a forest of beautiful soft coral exhibiting a kaleidoscope of colors. Then as the dive site name suggests the turtles came out to play. Green and hawksbill turtles were swimming off the wall, feeding and some taking their afternoon nap. Back to the yacht for a break. The dive bell rang and it was time for New Drop Off. Considered a mini Blue Corner by some this turned out to be an amazing dive. A casual drift along the wall found us surrounded by a large school of barracuda and black snappers. Then we started finding nudibranchs, flatworms, porcelain crabs, and a scorpion fish. A moray eel was on the prowl as it snaked gracefully along the reef occasionally disappearing.

Thursday
A beautiful morning broke as the Palau Aggressor made passage over to Peleliu. We started our day exploring Peleliu Corner. Famous for its currents; Peleliu Corner is not for the faint hearted. We started the dive by cruising along the wall where we were at the mercy of a moderate current and simply enjoyed the life that passed us by. Turtles and grey reef sharks seemed to be the main attraction. We then armed our reef hooks and hooked in for a while to enjoy a more stationary view of the sharks, which came in extremely close. We also found a leaf scorpion fish and mantis shrimp in a coral bunker seeking shelter from the current. The remaining part of the dive was enjoyed drifting along the plateau. We then decided to stretch our legs a bit and go on a tour of Peleliu. This exceptionally interesting tour took us back to September 1944 when the US Marines stormed the beaches of Peleliu. Our guide Tangi showed us the US & Japanese memorial, amtracks, guns, Orange Beach and the 1000 man caves. What a touching tour. Lunch and a little nap and it was time to visit West Wall. Here the unmistakable yellow soft coral gets everyone’s attention. This stunning wall which is very sheer is filled with color and macro critters. We found a large anemone with tomato anemone fish shyly playing with us and in the same anemone, a large porcelain crab grabbing floating bits of food. A turtle causally swam by and hardly even noticed this gaggle of divers admiring him. Sharks cruised by us along the wall with pyramid butterfly fish and anthias scattered around us. This was a thoroughly enjoyable dive. Our next adventure takes us to Orange Beach. This wonderful sloping wall housed numerous nudibranchs and flatworms and we encountered large schools of snapper, turtle and hump head parrotfish. We also came across a large collection of bullets. This was a very relaxing and enjoyable dive.

Friday
Morning broke with a wonderful sunrise as we headed to back to German Channel. This time we encountered the unusual pink anemone host with Clark’s anemone fish bashfully playing with the photographers. Then we waited at the cleaning station and this time it paid off. A brief encounter with a giant manta. Sharks and snappers kept us busy for the remainder of this world-class dive. Snack and hammock time followed and then we headed to Blue Holes. Blue Holes provided a unique experience with four holes on top of the reef that all lead into one large chamber. From within the holes we looked up and enjoyed the sunrays breaking through the ceiling. Numerous photos were taken. We then exited the holes through a large exit and drifted with the current along a stunning wall toward Blue Corner. Large schools of snapper, barracuda, sharks and giant trevallies were all out and about. What a great dive. Surface time was followed by an encore dive at the famous corner. The usual suspects were back including another stellar performance by our Napoleon wrasse. For a change of scenery we decided to visit Ngerchong Island. Ngerchong Inside is a great macro critter dive site and on this occasion it was no different. The dive started off with an octopus sighting followed by leaf scorpion fish and nudibranchs. A wonderful relaxing dive to end the day.

Saturday
Another gorgeous morning broke and our adventure starts with the surreal experience of Jelly Fish Lake. This stratified marine lake houses the unique non-stinging jellies. They were everywhere you looked and it felt like we were in another world as we snorkeled around these pulsating critters. After getting our jellyfish fix we headed back to Koror and meandered through the rock islands and stopped at the famous archway for a photo shoot. Then back to diving. We decided to enjoy yet another different experience with Chandelier Caves. Only 18 feet deep or so this cave has four chambers that have air spaces where you can pop up and have a chat to your buddy or take some photos before continuing your dive. Exploring these caves was a wonderful way to end an already fantastic weeks diving in Palau.

So the week comes to a close. We would like to congratulate Tara for completing their Underwater Photography course. All of us here on the Palau Aggressor wish all our friends a safe trip home and a speedy return to eating, sleeping and diving the Aggressor way!

Sulang!
Capt. Marc