Explore German Channel with us - see manta rays following each other and feeding in shallow waters - an unforgettable event.
German Channel: Palau's Manta Ray Paradise
Where Giants Dance Just Below the Surface
Book Your AdventureWelcome to Our Home Waters
German Channel Snorkeling with Palau Explorer
Alii and welcome to our beautiful islands! We're Palau Explorer, your local family who's been sharing the magic of our waters for years. Let us take you to one of our most treasured spots - German Channel - where manta rays glide like underwater angels just meters beneath your snorkel.

Why German Channel is Perfect for Snorkelers During High Season
Shallow Water Magic
During peak season, manta rays visit cleaning stations in water so shallow you can observe them clearly from the surface - sometimes just 2-3 meters below your fins!
Crystal Clear Visibility
Our waters are so clear during high season (often 25-30+ meters visibility) that snorkeling German Channel feels like floating above an underwater cathedral.
Perfect Weather
High season brings calm seas, gentle currents, and sunny skies - ideal conditions for comfortable snorkeling adventures.
The German Channel Experience - Through Palauan Eyes
A Piece of Our History
Our elders tell stories of when the Germans blasted this channel through our reef back in 1908, creating a passage for phosphate ships. They probably never imagined it would become one of the world's most beautiful snorkeling spots!
What started as industry has become a sanctuary where our marine life thrives. The channel connects our lagoon to the big Pacific, creating a highway for manta rays, sharks, and countless fish that call our waters home.

What You'll See on Your Snorkeling Adventure
Manta Rays - Our Gentle Giants
- Wingspan up to 7 meters (23 feet) - imagine that gliding beneath you!
- They visit German Channel regularly during high season to mate and feed
- So curious and gentle - they might swim right up to say hello
- Best viewing: Depending on moon and tides - our guides will advise
Reef Sharks - Our Ocean Guardians
- Grey reef sharks patrol the channel edges
- Completely safe - they're more curious about you than anything
- Beautiful to watch as they cruise the deeper blue water
Green Sea Turtles
- Our ancient friends often cruise through the channel
- Sometimes surface right next to snorkelers for a breath
- Always magical to encounter
Schools of Colorful Fish
- Massive schools of snappers forming silver tornadoes
- Clouds of colorful reef fish around the coral heads
- Eagle rays gliding like underwater birds
Why Snorkel German Channel with Palau Explorer?

Local Knowledge
Born and raised here - we know exactly where and when the mantas appear
Perfect Timing
We'll take you when conditions are ideal and marine life is most active
Family-Style Service
This isn't just business for us - you're visiting our home, and we treat you like family
Small Groups
We keep groups intimate so everyone gets the best experience
Photo Opportunities
We know the perfect spots for those Instagram-worthy manta ray shots!
High Season at German Channel - When Magic Happens
December to March: Peak Manta Season
During our high season, German Channel transforms into snorkeling paradise:
Perfect Weather
Sunny skies, calm seas, minimal rain
Incredible Visibility
Crystal clear water perfect for photography
Active Mantas
Peak feeding and cleaning activity - multiple encounters likely
Comfortable Water
28-30°C (82-86°F) - perfect for extended snorkeling
The beauty of German Channel snorkeling during high season is the shallow water encounters. While divers go deep, snorkelers get front-row seats to the manta ray cleaning stations that happen in surprisingly shallow water - often just 3-5 meters deep.
Moon Magic
The moon pulls the tides, creating powerful currents through the channel that carry nutrient-rich waters. These tidal flows draw manta rays to feed in the plankton blooms. We'll time your visit with the tide changes for the best magic!

Planning Your German Channel Snorkeling Adventure
What's Included with Palau Explorer
Boat Ride
Comfortable boat transportation to German Channel
Delicious Picnic Lunch
Freshly prepared local cuisine for your adventure
Local Expert Guide
Knowledgeable guides who know these waters intimately
Snorkel Gear
High-quality masks, snorkels, and fins
Coconut Drink
Fresh coconut to enjoy during your trip
Water, Coffee and Tea
Refreshing beverages throughout your journey
Hotel Transfer
Convenient pickup and drop-off from your hotel
Memories That Last Forever
Unforgettable experiences with Palau's marine giants
Perfect for All Skill Levels
Calm, clear water makes German Channel ideal for first-timers
Advanced positioning for optimal manta encounters
Kid-friendly adventure that creates lifelong memories
Perfect conditions for underwater photography
German Channel Snorkeling - Practical Information
Best Months for Snorkeling
- Peak Season: December - March (optimal conditions + peak manta activity)
- Good Season: November, April (great conditions, fewer crowds)
- Possible: Year-round, but weather dependent during wet season
What to Bring
- Reef-Safe Sunscreen: Protect yourself and our reefs
- Underwater Camera: You'll want to capture these moments
- Light Towel: For after your snorkel
- Water Bottle: Stay hydrated in our tropical sun
- Positive Attitude: Ready to be amazed by our underwater world!
Trip Duration
- Half Day: 4-5 hours including boat travel and snorkeling time
- Full Day: Combine German Channel with other sites for ultimate adventure
- Custom: We can arrange whatever fits your schedule