Dive with reef mantas at German Channel in Palau, a sandy cleaning station and feeding channel where the rays gather to be groomed by wrasse. Around the new and full moon, tidal currents pump plankton through the channel and draw mantas in numbers, alongside grey reef sharks on the same plateau. The best season is December to April, peaking around January and February.

Reef Manta Ray in German Channel (Palau)

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About This Spot

Dive with reef mantas at German Channel in Palau, a sandy cleaning station and feeding channel where the rays gather to be groomed by wrasse. Around the new and full moon, tidal currents pump plankton through the channel and draw mantas in numbers, alongside grey reef sharks on the same plateau. The best season is December to April, peaking around January and February.

Best Months to Visit

Up to 82% sighting chance in German Channel (Palau). Best months: February, January, March.

  • February: 82%
  • January: 80%
  • March: 77%
  • April: 70%
  • December: 68%

Practical Information

  • Location: German Channel (Palau)
  • Coordinates: 7.1400, 134.2300
  • Effort: expedition
  • Accessibility: Hard
  • Observation mode: Diving

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time for mantas at German Channel?

December to April, with peak numbers around January and February, and the best action on the new and full moon tides.

What is German Channel?

A wide sandy cleaning station and feeding channel at about 20 metres, where mantas and grey reef sharks gather in the current.

Why do mantas come on the new moon?

Strong tidal currents around the new and full moon create upwellings of plankton, drawing mantas to feed near the surface.

What else can you see in Palau?

Blue Corner's sharks, Jellyfish Lake, WWII wrecks and some of the healthiest reefs in the Pacific.

Other Spots for Reef Manta Ray

More wildlife to see nearby