Solitude Gaia

Location: Micronesia

Rating: 4.8/5 (86 reviews)

About Solitude Gaia

A 40-meter vessel offering dive expeditions across Micronesia for up to 18 guests, with two main tenders and a support skiff.

Scattered across a vast expanse of the Western Pacific, the islands and atolls of Micronesia represent ancient volcanic peaks and coral ramparts rising from oceanic depths. This geographic isolation has cultivated a unique marine environment, where deep, current-swept channels attract large pelagic species and sheltered lagoons protect a significant diversity of hard and soft corals. The region is also a submerged museum, holding one of the world's most significant collections of World War II shipwrecks. Built to navigate these remote and varied waters, the 40-meter Solitude Gaia offers a modern platform for comprehensive exploration of this historic and ecologically important destination. Diving operations are structured for efficiency and direct access to Micronesia’s premier sites. The vessel is equipped with two main tenders and an additional support skiff, a system that minimizes transit times and allows for flexible dive group management. Back on the main ship, the dive deck provides ample space for gear preparation and storage. A key feature for photographers is the dedicated camera station, designed for the setup, cleaning, and maintenance of imaging equipment. All dives are led by an experienced team of guides who are well-versed in the region's complex underwater topography and marine life behavior, ensuring a well-managed and informative experience. Life aboard the Solitude Gaia centers on guest comfort and relaxation between dives. The vessel accommodates up to 18 guests in nine private cabins, each equipped with individual climate controls and an en-suite bathroom. Cabins are distributed across multiple decks, offering a range of configurations to suit different preferences. For socializing, an air-conditioned indoor saloon provides a cool retreat and a central gathering point for briefings and conversation. Outside, an expansive sundeck offers open-air seating and loungers, creating the primary space for observing the passing seascapes and enjoying the warm equatorial climate. The culinary program on board is an integral part of the daily schedule, designed to provide satisfying and energizing meals for active divers. The ship’s chef prepares a varied menu that draws from both international and local culinary traditions, with dishes served in the communal dining area. Meal service is structured to align with the dive plan, ensuring guests are well-fed before and after their underwater excursions. The crew can accommodate a range of special dietary requirements when given advance notice. A selection of beverages is available to complement the dining experience or to be enjoyed during leisure time. The Solitude Gaia is a contemporary 40-meter motor yacht, launched in 2023 and built with a robust steel hull. This heavy construction, combined with a wide 9-meter beam, provides inherent stability during open-ocean crossings between Micronesia's distant atolls. Power is supplied by twin 829-horsepower Yanmar engines, which allow the vessel to maintain a steady cruising speed of 10 knots. Onboard systems are modern and engineered for self-sufficiency, a necessity for operating in such a remote area. This combination of recent construction, powerful engineering, and thoughtful design makes the vessel a comfortable and reliable base for extended expeditions. Itineraries on the Solitude Gaia are crafted to showcase the dual character of diving in Micronesia. Routes may focus on the historic wreck-diving destinations, such as the ghost fleet of Truk Lagoon, or explore the vibrant coral reef systems and channels known for encounters with sharks, mantas, and schooling fish. The specific path and embarkation ports vary depending on the season and the expedition's focus. This liveaboard is well-suited for the certified diver with an interest in remote destinations, including wreck enthusiasts and underwater photographers. The 18-guest capacity ensures a small-group atmosphere, appealing to those who prefer a more personal and focused dive trip.

Vessel Specifications

Length: 40m
Guest capacity: 18
Year built: 2023
Nitrox: Available
WiFi: Available

Cabins

Staterooms (301-302) (sleeps 2) — Twin — These comfortable staterooms offer a serene retreat with twin beds, perfect for friends or individual travelers. Each features modern amenities and an en-suite bathroom, ensuring a relaxing stay.
Upper Deck Cabin (303) (sleeps 2) — Twin — Located on the upper deck, this cabin provides elevated views and a comfortable living space. It features twin beds and a private en-suite bathroom for convenience and privacy.
Main Deck Cabins (203-204) (sleeps 2) — Twin — These main deck cabins are designed for comfort and accessibility, featuring twin beds and private en-suite bathrooms. They offer a convenient and well-appointed space for guests.
Interior Cabins (101-102) (sleeps 2) — Twin — Located in the interior of the vessel, these cabins offer a cozy and quiet environment. Each features twin beds and a private en-suite bathroom, providing all necessary comforts.
Main Deck Cabins (201-202) (sleeps 2) — Twin — These main deck cabins offer easy access to communal areas and are equipped with twin beds and en-suite facilities. They provide a comfortable and functional space for divers.

Itineraries

Palau Northern Discovery & Spawning Event

Duration: 11 Days / 10 Nights

This itinerary explores Palau’s northern reefs, including the remote atoll of Kayangel, before focusing on renowned spawning aggregations. The route features a mix of lesser-dived frontier sites with rugged topography and famous corners known for strong currents and pelagic life. Timed to coincide with new or full moon cycles, this trip offers the chance to witness predictable mass fish spawning events.

Palau Pristine Waters

Explore Palau aboard this itinerary, venturing through renowned sites like the German Channel and Blue Corner. Expect strong currents that sustain a diverse ecosystem, from vibrant reef walls and prolific coral gardens to encounters with sharks, manta rays, and other pelagics. Delve into historical wrecks and experience Palau's unique Jellyfish Lake, offering a blend of exhilarating drift dives and unique natural wonders amidst the Rock Islands. This journey focuses on Palau's signature clear wa

Palau Signature Extended (Malakal - Malakal)

Duration: 13 Days / 12 Nights

Embarkation: Malakal

Solitude Gaia's 12-night Palau expedition is a deeper take on the operator's signature programme: more time on the southern reefs of Ngemelis, additional days at Ulong and the Rock Islands, and a relaxed transition back to Malakal that respects the 18-hour no-fly window. Round-trip from Malakal, dive sites are subject to weather, currents and Palau's marine protected area permits.

Palau Grand Exploration (Malakal - Malakal)

Duration: 15 Days / 14 Nights

Embarkation: Malakal

A grand 14-night exploration of Palau aboard Solitude Gaia that combines the classic southern circuit with extended time on the rarely-visited northern reefs around Kayangel and Velasco. The itinerary moves from Malakal's wartime wrecks through Ulong's current-swept channels to long days at Blue Corner, Blue Holes and Peleliu, with two dedicated days of northern exploration in the middle. Round-trip Malakal; dive sites depend on weather, currents and Palau's marine protected area permits.

Palau New Moon & Full Moon Spawning Expedition (Malakal - Malakal)

Duration: 22 Days / 21 Nights

Embarkation: Malakal

A 21-night back-to-back expedition timed around both the new moon and the full moon. The itinerary brackets two spawning windows at Ulong with extended exploration of the northern reefs around Kayangel and Velasco, plus the classic Ngemelis and Peleliu sites in the south. Spawning is a natural phenomenon and sightings cannot be guaranteed; the team adjusts dive windows daily to lunar cycle, currents and reported activity. Round-trip from Malakal.

Classic Palau (Malakal - Malakal)

Duration: 8 Days / 7 Nights

Embarkation: Malakal, Micronesia

Embark on an 8-day diving journey through Palau's classic underwater sites aboard the Solitude Gaia. This expedition explores the region's renowned marine biodiversity, from WWII wrecks near Koror to the vibrant reefs of the southern islands. The trip offers a comprehensive experience, including encounters with sharks, manta rays, and large schools of fish, guided by an expert crew. The itinerary balances thrilling dives with opportunities for relaxation and topside exploration, such as a visit

Palau (Malakal - Malakal)

Duration: 11 Days / 10 Nights

Embarkation: Malakal, Micronesia

This 11-day journey aboard the Solitude Gaia explores the world-renowned dive sites of Palau. Starting from Koror, the trip covers historical WWII wrecks, vibrant channels, and dramatic walls teeming with marine life. Divers will experience iconic locations such as Blue Corner, German Channel, and the Peleliu area, blending thrilling current dives with opportunities for relaxed island exploration. Max guests on this trip: 18.

Palau Northern Discovery (Malakal - Malakal)

Duration: 11 Days / 10 Nights

Embarkation: Malakal, Micronesia

This 11-day expedition on the Solitude Gaia provides a thorough exploration of Palau's varied marine ecosystems. The trip encompasses both renowned and secluded locations, from the demanding currents of Peleliu and Blue Corner to the rarely visited northern reefs. Participants will encounter dramatic walls, flourishing coral gardens, and may witness unique spawning events, with a flexible itinerary that adapts to prevailing conditions. Max guests on this trip: 18.