Welcome to Ngerchong Coral Garden, a stunning dive site located on the eastern reefs of Palau, just 21 miles southeast of Koror. This horseshoe-shaped reef is a haven for novice divers, offering a shallow depth of 0 to 36 feet (0-12 m) and a maximum depth of 100 feet (33 m) on the sloping sandy bottom. With visibility ranging from 60 to 90 feet (20 to 30 m) during incoming tide, this dive site is a perfect destination for those seeking to explore the colorful world beneath the waves.

One of the main attractions of Ngerchong Coral Garden is the variety of coral formations that make up this magnificent garden. The reef starts between 30 and 40 feet (10 and 13 m) and continues to rise until it reaches the surface, offering a stunning display of hard corals and colorful soft corals. During low tide, the top of the reef is partially exposed, allowing divers to observe the unique formations up close.

Another fascinating feature of this dive site is the marine life that calls it home. Cuttlefish can be seen here year-round, as Ngerchong Coral Garden is their breeding and hatching area. The female cuttlefish lays dozens of 2-inch (5 centimeter) long "grape-shaped" white eggs among branching hard corals and hovers around her nest until the eggs hatch. To locate the cuttlefish, divers can swim along the edge of the reef where it meets the sandy bottom, staying 3 to 6 feet (1 to 2 meters) off the bottom. This requires a sharp eye as cuttlefish are masters of disguise. In addition to cuttlefish, the garden is home to blacktip sharks, eagle rays, and mantas, as well as a variety of small marine life, such as shrimp, crab, nudibranchs, feather worms, garden eels, and many shells.

underwater photo of a small yellow cuttle fish and a diver's face in the background

The dive boat will be tied off to one of two moorings, allowing divers to explore the entire coral garden at their leisure. This shallow dive offers ample time for divers to take in the beauty of the reef and its inhabitants.

Beyond the stunning underwater scenery, Ngerchong Island itself is also a fascinating site to explore. The sandy island was once a thriving Palauan community, but now it is deserted, offering a glimpse into the history of the area and adding to the overall intrigue of the dive site.

In conclusion, Ngerchong Coral Garden is a must-visit dive site for novice divers seeking a colorful and fascinating underwater experience. With its shallow depth, stunning coral formations, and abundant marine life, it offers a truly unforgettable diving experience.