
PALAU Summer Immersion Program
June 28th - July 8th, 2026
The Mission: CRITICAL ECOSYSTEM MONITORING
Deployment of blue tech
Students on this expedition learn the techniques needed to work in the field with blue tech. Students will be deploying a smart moored data buoy, creating photogrammetry models of the coral reefs, collecting ecological data, and evaluating coral health. Students who complete the training will earn a marine tech diver certification.
Learn about Palau with Project Lead Scientist, Staci Lewis
Local Students from Palau
In partnership with Belau Pathways in Koror, WHALEFALL will be integrating local students from Palau in this experience, allowing the local community to monitor the health of their own reef, restore their own coral, and develop new career opportunities in climate action and sustainability.
Dive Equipment
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Rental scuba gear
The following equipment is included in the price of the expedition: Research Diving Equipment, Underwater Camera, 3mm Wetsuit, BCD, Regulator, Dive Computer, Safety Equipment, Essential Dive Gear, 90L Duffle, and Underwater Lights for advanced track students. Tanks and Weights will be available on location. Students & families are responsible for the replacement value if lost or damaged.
Pease visit for optional, but recommended items like boots, reef safe sunscreen and ear shield.
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ESSENTIAL GEAR FOR PURCHASE
Students prefer to have their own essential basic dive equipment. Gear is available through partner dive centers for students at a discounted rate.
Essential dive gear includes a mask, snorkel, fins, boots, mesh bag, and surface marker buoy.
Questions
Contact Vincent Smith at VSMITH@whalefall.ngo
PRICE: Summer Immersion Cost: $5500
For a limited time students will receive a 15% discount.
The team at WHALEFALL has been working diligently to reduce the cost of the Summer Immersion program for all students. If you require additional financial support please complete the application below to start the process.
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WHALEFALL offers sliding scale tuition assistance for the summer immersion program based on financial need and availability from community donations.
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WHALEFALL Educational Curriculum
4-1 Instructor Ratios for In-Water Training
Resort Accommodations & Airport Transportation
3 meals daily
Boat Dives
Equipment Rental
Complimentary wireless internet access
Dive Training & Certifications
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Airfare to Palau (ROR) We will assist in booking a group flight. (Currently estimated at $1800)
Travel expenses such as airline baggage or layover hotel.
Local gratuity
Marine Park Fee
Island Entrance Tax
Travel Insurance (Highly Recommended) We work with a preferred vender, Wanderwell
Deposits are required to reserve your space and receive the 15% student discount in the summer immersion. Deposits are fully refundable through 8/29/25 as we currently have staff in Palau adding details to the experience for students next year.