Specialist dive travel company Diveplanit has successfully managed the logistics and travel operations for the South Pacific Underwater Medicine Society’s (SPUMS) 54th Annual Scientific Meeting (ASM), held in Palau from 10–15 May 2026.
The event attracted 174 participants from around the world, including 136 conference delegates comprising diving physicians, hyperbaric specialists, researchers and medical professionals. Hosted at the Palasia Hotel in Koror, the conference combined a scientific program focused on underwater and hyperbaric medicine with practical diving workshops at some of Palau’s most renowned dive sites.
Diveplanit coordinated all accommodation, flights, dive logistics and daily activities for delegates and guests attending the week-long conference.
During the event:
- 133 divers completed 1,256 dives
- 27 snorkellers participated in marine excursions
- 18 freedivers joined dedicated activities
- 163 day tours were organised for delegates and accompanying guests
The 2026 scientific program, themed “Free Diving”, was convened by Dr Douglas Falconer and Dr Ian Gawthrope and explored the rapidly developing field of freediving physiology and safety.
Keynote speakers included Dr Peter Lindholm from Sweden’s Karolinska Institute and Professor Erika Schagatay of Mid Sweden University, internationally recognised experts in freediving physiology and hyperbaric medicine.
Dive operations visited iconic Palau dive sites including Ulong Channel, German Channel and Blue Corner, highlighting the destination’s reputation for exceptional marine biodiversity and conservation.
Diveplanit Co-Founder Simon Mallender said the event showcased both Palau’s appeal as a premium dive destination and the growing demand for specialist group dive travel management.
“Managing logistics for nearly 200 participants across diving, scientific sessions and touring activities is a significant undertaking, and we’re immensely proud of what our team and local partners achieved together.”
In addition to the conference and diving program, delegates also experienced Palauan cultural activities, traditional cuisine and local touring experiences.
About SPUMS
Founded in 1971, SPUMS promotes the study and advancement of underwater and hyperbaric medicine and hosts annual scientific meetings bringing together diving medicine professionals from around the world.
