The Blue Holes are one of the popular ways to start your dive to Blue Corner. The holes form the top of a very large cavern. On the face of the reef there are two (2) exits. One is a small 15-foot (5 meter) diameter window at 45 feet (15 meters). The other is a large opening starting at 85 feet (27 meters). The bottom of the cavern is at 120 feet (40 meters). In the north end of the cavern, at 85 feet (27 meters), is a narrow entrance that leads to another cave.
Blue Corner in Palau isn't just another dive site - it's consistently ranked as the best dive site in the world. Located at the intersection of powerful currents and pristine reef formations, this underwater paradise offers an unparalleled marine spectacle that attracts divers from across the globe.
Welcome to Clarence's Wall, one of the hidden gems of the Palau Islands! Located at the southeast end of Ngemelis Island and just a 50 to 70 minute speedboat ride from Koror, this dive site is a must-see for intermediate divers looking for a moderate current dive and all divers in search of a no-current experience.
Welcome to the breathtaking Virgin Blue Hole, a natural wonder that lies west of Ngemelis Island in Palau! This dive site offers a thrilling adventure for advanced divers with cave or cavern diving experience. With a distance of 26 miles (45 kilometers) from Koror, it takes only 50-60 minutes by speedboat to reach the site.
Welcome to Fairyland, also known as Ngemelis Coral Garden, located in Palau's pristine waters. This site is perfect for novice divers looking for a fun and easy checkout or tune-up dive. With its stunning coral formations, canyons, and swim-thrus, Fairyland offers an unforgettable underwater adventure for all levels of divers.
New Drop-Off is a dive site that is considered one of the most unique and exciting spots for diving in the world. Located off the coast of Palau, in the Western Pacific Ocean, New Drop-Off offers divers an unforgettable experience.
Welcome to Turtle Wall, a dive site located in the stunning waters of Palau! This site is a part of the vertical wall that runs along the entire length of Ngemelis Island, known as Ngemelis Wall. At Turtle Wall, you will have the unique opportunity to dive among an abundance of turtles - it's no wonder this dive site lives up to its name!
Welcome to Big Drop-Off, the breathtaking dive site that will leave you in awe of the underwater world. Located at the southwest side of Ngemelis Island and just 24 miles away from Koror, Big Drop-Off Palau is a sheer vertical wall that runs along the whole length of the island. This wall drops straight down to 900 feet, making it an irresistible attraction for divers who are passionate about exploring the depths of the ocean.
Welcome to Fish 'n Fins Palau, your go-to expert dive shop for exploring the breathtaking underwater world of Palau. One of the most stunning dive sites we offer is German Wall, located on the southwest side of Ngemelis Island and northwest of German Channel.
Exploring the Underwater Paradise
German Channel, Palau
Dive into the crystal-clear waters of German Channel, Palau's premier dive site where majestic manta rays dance in currents rich with marine life. This man-made marvel has transformed from historical necessity to underwater sanctuary, offering unforgettable adventures for divers of all levels.
Book Your Dive AdventureTable of Contents
- What Makes German Channel Palau's Most Iconic Dive Site?
- How Was German Channel Created - The Fascinating History
- When Is the Best Time to Dive German Channel?
- What Marine Life Can You Encounter at German Channel?
- How to Plan Your German Channel Diving Adventure
- Why Choose Fish 'n Fins for Your German Channel Dive
- What Equipment Do You Need for German Channel?
- Is German Channel Suitable for All Divers?
- How to Capture the Perfect Underwater Photos
- What Other Dive Sites Complement German Channel?
Key Takeaways
- Manta Ray Paradise: World-famous for its manta ray cleaning stations.
- Historical Significance: Created in 1908, now a thriving marine ecosystem.
- Optimal Timing: Best diving November-April; peak manta activity December-March.
- Diverse Marine Life: Mantas, reef sharks, eagle rays, turtles, and countless reef fish species.
- Expert Guidance with Fish 'n Fins: Unmatched local expertise. A 2-dive trip costs $209.00 per person/day.
What Makes German Channel Palau's Most Iconic Dive Site?
German Channel stands as a testament to both human ingenuity and nature's remarkable ability to reclaim and transform. Located between the islands of Ngemelis and Ngercheu in Palau's stunning archipelago, this man-made channel has evolved from a practical passage created for phosphate transportation to one of the world's premier dive destinations.
What truly sets German Channel apart is its perfect combination of historical significance and extraordinary marine biodiversity. The channel serves as a vital cleaning station for majestic manta rays, which regularly visit to have parasites removed by smaller fish. This natural phenomenon creates one of diving's most sought-after experiences - the chance to witness these gentle giants up close as they gracefully glide through the water.
The channel's unique geography creates nutrient-rich currents that attract an astonishing variety of marine life. From schools of colorful reef fish to patrolling sharks, every dive offers new encounters and experiences. The vibrant coral formations that have flourished along the channel's edges provide habitat for countless species, creating an underwater ecosystem of remarkable diversity and beauty.
How Was German Channel Created - The Fascinating History
The story of German Channel begins not with diving tourism, but with bird droppings. In the early 20th century, when Palau was under German colonial administration, valuable phosphate deposits were discovered on the island of Angaur. These deposits, formed from centuries of seabird guano (excrement), were highly prized as fertilizer and for manufacturing gunpowder.
In 1908, the German administration decided to create a direct passage through the barrier reef to facilitate the transportation of phosphate from the mining operations to ships waiting in deeper water. Using explosives and dredging equipment, they blasted and excavated a channel through the reef, creating what we now know as German Channel.
When Is the Best Time to Dive German Channel?
Palau enjoys a tropical climate with relatively stable conditions year-round, making German Channel accessible throughout most of the year. However, certain periods offer optimal diving experiences based on weather patterns, water conditions, and marine life activity.
The dry season, spanning from November to April, generally provides the best overall diving conditions at German Channel. During these months, rainfall is minimal, and the waters enjoy exceptional visibility often exceeding 30 meters (100 feet). The stable weather patterns during this period also mean calmer seas and more predictable currents, making dives more comfortable and accessible for all experience levels.
For those specifically hoping to encounter manta rays, the period from December to March represents peak season. During these months, plankton concentrations in the channel increase, attracting mantas in greater numbers to feed and visit cleaning stations. While manta sightings are possible year-round, your chances of multiple encounters significantly increase during this window.
What Marine Life Can You Encounter at German Channel?
German Channel's extraordinary biodiversity makes every dive a potential encounter with some of the ocean's most fascinating creatures. The channel's role as a natural highway between the open ocean and the inner lagoon creates a perfect environment for a remarkable variety of marine species.
Manta Rays
The undisputed highlights, with wingspans up to 5 meters (16 feet), visiting cleaning stations.
Reef Sharks
Grey reef sharks and whitetip reef sharks are commonly seen patrolling the channel edges.
Napoleon Wrasse
Distinctive, large, and curious fish often approaching divers.
Eagle Rays
Distinctive spotted patterns, may glide by in small groups or solitary.
Schools of Barracuda
Sleek, predatory fish often forming massive, swirling vortexes.
Nudibranchs & Macro Life
Colorful nudibranchs, cryptic leaf scorpionfish, and tiny cleaner shrimp.
How to Plan Your German Channel Diving Adventure
Planning a successful diving trip to German Channel requires consideration of several key factors:
- Choosing the Right Time to Visit: The dry season (November to April) offers optimal conditions.
- Selecting Your Accommodation: Palau offers options from guesthouses to luxury resorts, mostly near Koror.
- Dive Certification and Experience: Advanced Open Water or equivalent recommended.
- Essential Documentation: Valid passport, onward travel proof, diving certification cards, dive insurance (recommended).
- Palau Environmental Fee: Required for visitors, supports conservation efforts.
Dive Day Pricing
Standard Rate (2 Dives): $209.00 per person/day
5+ Days Rate: $195.00 per person/day
Book Your DiveWhy Choose Fish 'n Fins for Your German Channel Dive
When it comes to experiencing German Channel's underwater wonders, your choice of dive operator significantly impacts your adventure. Fish 'n Fins, established in 1972, is Palau's premier diving center, offering unparalleled expertise and service.
Pioneering Palau's Diving Industry
Unmatched knowledge of German Channel's currents, marine life patterns, and secret spots.
Unmatched Local Expertise
Local Palauan and international guides ensure optimal encounters while respecting wildlife.
Commitment to Safety
State-of-the-art equipment, meticulously maintained boats, and a perfect safety record.
"Fish 'n Fins doesn't just show you German Channel – they help you experience it through the eyes of those who know it best."
What Equipment Do You Need for German Channel?
Exposure Protection
A 3mm wetsuit or rashguard with leggings is recommended for comfort and protection in Palau's warm waters (27-30°C/81-86°F).
Reef Hooks
Essential for observing manta rays at cleaning stations in current. Anchor to dead coral or rock only. Fish 'n Fins provides guidance.
Photography Equipment
Wide-angle lenses for mantas, strobes for color. Ample memory storage is advisable.
Safety Equipment
Surface marker buoy (SMB), dive computer, audible signaling device. Dive light recommended. Rentals are available from Fish 'n Fins.
Is German Channel Suitable for All Divers?
German Channel accommodates various experience levels, but an Advanced Open Water certification or equivalent is recommended to fully enjoy the site, especially due to occasional moderate currents and depths that can exceed 18 meters (60 feet).
Divers should be comfortable with:
- Boat entry and exit techniques
- Proper buoyancy control
- Basic understanding of current navigation
- Use of reef hooks (training provided by Fish 'n Fins)
How to Capture the Perfect Underwater Photos
Understanding Light and Visibility
German Channel's excellent visibility (often 20-30m/65-100ft) is ideal. Use underwater strobes or video lights to restore true colors below 5m (16ft).
Positioning for Manta Ray Photography
Station yourself respectfully near cleaning stations (not directly on them). Position slightly below mantas for dramatic upward angles. Patience is key.
Macro Photography Opportunities
Beyond large pelagics, explore coral heads for colorful nudibranchs, anemonefish, and camouflaged creatures.
Responsible Photography Practices
Never touch or manipulate marine life. Maintain proper buoyancy to avoid damaging corals. Use reef hooks only on dead substrate when necessary.
What Other Dive Sites Complement German Channel?
While German Channel is a highlight, Palau offers numerous other world-class sites. Fish 'n Fins expertly combines these into comprehensive dive packages.
Blue Corner
Consistently ranked among the world's top dive sites. Exhilarating current-swept drifts where divers can hook in and watch sharks, jacks, and barracuda.
Learn More
Ulong Channel
Spectacular drift dive through a coral-lined channel teeming with marine life, enormous cabbage corals, and schools of blacktip reef sharks.
Learn More
Siaes Corner
A hidden gem in Palau's Western Reef. Clear waters, stunning vertical drop. Ideal for novice to intermediate divers, featuring vibrant reefs, Gray Reef Sharks, barracudas, diverse angelfish, and potentially turtles. Strong currents may require reef hooks.
Learn MoreReady to Experience German Channel?
Join Fish 'n Fins for an unforgettable adventure exploring one of the world's most extraordinary dive sites.
Book Your Dive Adventure Now!