Port information & tips for Koror
Koror is the vibrant gateway to the island paradise of Palau, welcoming travelers with a breathtaking backdrop of emerald-green islands and crystal-clear waters. The city's relaxed atmosphere combines Pacific hospitality with impressive maritime diversity and offers incomparable natural experiences thanks to its proximity to the famous Rock Islands. Cultural and natural highlights include the Belau National Museum, the informative Etpison Museum, and the spectacular underwater world of Nikko Bay. Cruise ships dock at Malakal Port on the island of the same name, Malakal, from where the lively downtown area of Koror is easily accessible in just a few minutes by taxi or shuttle, while also providing direct access to boat tours into the fascinating world of the islands.
The cruise port of Koror, the main hub of Palau, is primarily accessible by plane for international guests from the DACH region. Due to its island location and the lack of local public transportation, organized transfers and a pre-cruise overnight stay are particularly recommended.
Airplane
Arrival in Koror is via Roman Tmetuchl International Airport (ROR), also known as Palau International Airport. The airport is located on the island of Babeldaob, about 8 kilometers north of Koror, and is connected to the main island by the Koror-Babeldaob Bridge. The travel time from the airport to the center of Koror is around 15 to 20 minutes. As there are no direct flight connections from Europe, flights with layovers in Asia (e.g., Seoul, Taipei, Manila) or Guam are common, which is why early arrival is strongly recommended.
Transfer & Shuttle
There is no public transportation or ride-hailing services from Roman Tmetuchl International Airport (ROR). The most convenient option is a pre-organized transfer. Many hotels offer free or low-cost shuttle services. Alternatively, taxis are available at the terminal; prices to Koror are usually between 20 and 30 US dollars, though the fare should be negotiated in advance. For maximum convenience, private transfers can also be booked, costing between 35 and 60 US dollars.
Pre-Cruise Hotel
Given the long flight times from the DACH region, an overnight stay in a hotel in Koror on the day before embarkation is highly advisable to start the cruise relaxed. Many hotels in Koror, such as the Palau Royal Resort or the Palasia Hotel, offer comfortable accommodations and often the aforementioned airport transfer. Booking the hotel and transfers early ensures a smooth transition from flight to ship.
Check-in & Embarkation
Please note that your travel documents usually provide a fixed time slot for check-in, which is mandatory for your embarkation. Plan sufficient time for your journey to the port and keep in mind that the latest embarkation time—depending on the cruise line and destination—is generally about one hour before the scheduled departure.
The same applies during the journey: for shore excursions, you should be back on board at least one hour before departure. Always pay attention to the latest announcements and notices on board, as docking and departure times may change at short notice.
The cruise port of Koror, the main hub of Palau, is primarily accessible by plane for international guests from the DACH region. Due to its island location and the lack of local public transportation, organized transfers and a pre-cruise overnight stay are particularly recommended.
Airplane
Arrival in Koror is via Roman Tmetuchl International Airport (ROR), also known as Palau International Airport. The airport is located on the island of Babeldaob, about 8 kilometers north of Koror, and is connected to the main island by the Koror-Babeldaob Bridge. The travel time from the airport to the center of Koror is around 15 to 20 minutes. As there are no direct flight connections from Europe, flights with layovers in Asia (e.g., Seoul, Taipei, Manila) or Guam are common, which is why early arrival is strongly recommended.
Transfer & Shuttle
There is no public transportation or ride-hailing services from Roman Tmetuchl International Airport (ROR). The most convenient option is a pre-organized transfer. Many hotels offer free or low-cost shuttle services. Alternatively, taxis are available at the terminal; prices to Koror are usually between 20 and 30 US dollars, though the fare should be negotiated in advance. For maximum convenience, private transfers can also be booked, costing between 35 and 60 US dollars.
Pre-Cruise Hotel
Given the long flight times from the DACH region, an overnight stay in a hotel in Koror on the day before embarkation is highly advisable to start the cruise relaxed. Many hotels in Koror, such as the Palau Royal Resort or the Palasia Hotel, offer comfortable accommodations and often the aforementioned airport transfer. Booking the hotel and transfers early ensures a smooth transition from flight to ship.
Check-in & Embarkation
Please note that your travel documents usually provide a fixed time slot for check-in, which is mandatory for your embarkation. Plan sufficient time for your journey to the port and keep in mind that the latest embarkation time—depending on the cruise line and destination—is generally about one hour before the scheduled departure.
The same applies during the journey: for shore excursions, you should be back on board at least one hour before departure. Always pay attention to the latest announcements and notices on board, as docking and departure times may change at short notice.
From Malakal Harbor, you can reach the heart of Koror and the surrounding highlights quickly and comfortably thanks to various transfer options.
Taxi
Numerous taxis wait directly at the port grounds for arriving guests. The ride to the city center takes only 5 to 10 minutes and offers a flexible and time-saving option for individual excursions and direct access to the diving centers.
BBI Shuttle and Transfer Buses
The local BBI Shuttle as well as organized shuttle buses from the cruise lines commute regularly between the terminal and the main shopping streets. These services allow for a relaxed journey and connect the port directly with the cultural centers and the popular museums of the island.
On Foot
For an extensive walk, the center can be reached in about 40 minutes. The path leads along the picturesque coastline of Malakal Island and offers the opportunity to discover the tropical flora and small local shops at your own pace and from up close.
To make the most of your stay in Koror, we recommend a combination of a boat tour to the paradisiacal island worlds and a visit to the cultural treasures in the heart of the city.
Rock Islands Southern Lagoon
This UNESCO World Natural Heritage site impresses with its striking, forested limestone islands and crystal-clear water; additionally, thanks to organized boat tours directly from the harbor, the area is perfectly accessible for snorkeling trips and unforgettable nature experiences.
Belau National Museum
As the oldest museum in Micronesia, this cultural landmark in the center of Koror offers fascinating insights into the traditional Palauan way of life and is ideally suited for an informative shore excursion thanks to its central location and the noteworthy traditional Bai house.
Malakal Island
The lively harbor district directly at the cruise terminal invites you to linger with its cozy cafes and maritime restaurants; furthermore, thanks to its mix of local business and relaxed island flair, the area provides the perfect setting for a relaxed stroll by the water.
Palau Pacific Resort
The exclusive Palau Pacific Resort on Arakabesang Island is easily accessible from the port in about fifteen minutes by taxi and offers guests a dreamlike white sand beach with first-class tourist infrastructure. Thanks to the well-maintained grounds including comfortable loungers, an infinity pool, and high-quality gastronomy, you can enjoy pure relaxation in a tropical paradise. This location is also ideal for snorkelers, as the resort has a protected house reef with impressive biodiversity right off the coast. It is best to visit the resort directly in the morning with a day pass to enjoy the quiet atmosphere to the fullest, and plan your return trip to the ship about ninety minutes before departure to end the day in a relaxed manner.
The way back to Malakal Harbor is very straightforward and safe thanks to the short distances and the relaxed atmosphere in Palau.
Taxi
Taxis are available at the WCTC Shopping Center, at the Surangel’s Shopping Malls, and in front of major resorts such as the Palau Royal Resort. Since the drivers are well aware of the ships' port times, you will reach the guarded port area on Malakal Island quickly and directly.
Hotel Shuttles and Tour Buses
Many guests use the practical hotel shuttle services or the organized buses from local tour operators for their return journey, which conveniently drop you off at the pier after your excursion. In addition, individual trips can be easily arranged through the receptions of the central hotels, guaranteeing a punctual return.
On Foot
If you are already on Malakal Island, you can walk back directly to the ship's entrance via the paved main road in just a few minutes. The path is safe and, thanks to the striking silhouette of your cruise ship and the clear layout, easy to find at any time.
