Palau Shark and Coral Reef Volunteer Expedition

• Scuba dive or snorkel in Palau’s tropical waters, within the world’s first shark sanctuary—home to some of the highest shark abundance and species diversity in the Pacific.
  
  
• Support marine research by collecting data on coral reef health and fish biodiversity in areas with varying shark populations.
  
  
• Participate in a long-term citizen science project focused on identifying and monitoring shark species to better understand their role in reef ecosystems.
  
  
• Contribute meaningfully to conservation efforts while experiencing the natural beauty of Palau both above and below the surface.
  

Dive into Conservation: Be Part of the Research

Coral reefs are among the most biologically rich and productive ecosystems on Earth—but they’re also under serious threat from climate change, overfishing, and pollution. At the same time, shark populations are declining worldwide, and emerging research points to a strong connection between healthy shark populations and resilient coral reefs.

This volunteer-based expedition offers a special opportunity to engage with Palau’s marine environment while contributing observational data that may support ongoing conservation efforts. As a citizen scientist, you’ll learn how to identify and survey sharks, reef fish, and corals while helping researchers compare reef health across sites with different levels of shark presence.

Palau has long been a global leader in marine conservation. In 2001, it established the world’s first shark sanctuary. Then in 2009, it expanded that protection to encompass its entire exclusive economic zone—over 230,000 square miles—creating one of the largest marine protected areas on the planet and banning all commercial fishing within its boundaries.

Swim with Sharks & Discover Vibrant Reef Life

Palau is home to more than 1,500 species of fish, over 300 species of soft coral, and 400+ species of hard coral, making it one of the most vibrant marine ecosystems on the planet.

Seeing and studying healthy populations of reef sharks in the wild is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Blacktip, whitetip, and gray reef sharks are commonly encountered in Palau’s waters, and your time in the field offers an incredible chance to observe them in their natural habitat.

Whether diving or snorkeling, you'll explore reefs surrounding the iconic Rock Islands that are teeming with life. You may encounter humphead (Napoleon) wrasse, mandarinfish, pajama cardinalfish, sweetlips, butterflyfish, clown triggerfish, and countless others—an underwater world bursting with color and diversity.

Trip Cost Details

Includes: Airport transfers upon arrival and departure, accommodations, daily breakfast and lunch, activities and excursions listed in itinerary, two dives per day while on the water (an optional third is available for an additional fee), Rock Island and Jellyfish Lake Park fees

Does Not Include: Airfare to or from destination, required gear rentals, optional third dive on any day, optional trip extensions, trip cancellation or travel insurance, visas when applicable, alcoholic beverages, and gratuities.

Click here for more detailed trip cost information or read our full expedition terms and conditions.