Ulong is a major island and channel of westernPalau.[1] It is sometimes calledAulong and originally writtenOroolong in English. Ulong is regarded by many as one of the best drift dives in the world.[2]
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Ngerumekaol Pass, also known as Ulong Channel, partially cuts through the reef near the Island.[3] The channel stretches about 500 metres (1,600 ft), with an average width of 33 metres (108 ft) and leads into a coral reef lagoon.[2] There are sharks within the currents of the channel and Ulong Corner. The channel contains giant clams and one of the largest known patches of greenlettuce coral in the world.[4][5]Uruktapel is the largest island southward ofKoror; at about 2 miles (3.2 km) off its western point is Ulong. Denges and Eil Malk Passages are passable, but navigation may be difficult in the lagoon between them and Ulong Island. From Ulong to Malakal Harbor, the lagoon is navigable.[6]
Henry Wilson (1740–1810), an Englishnaval captain of the BritishEast India Company was aboard hispacket shipAntelope, when it shipwrecked off Ulong Island in 1783;[7] he returned to England with the localPrince Lee Boo. In the late 1700s, the island's inhabitants attempted to defend Ulong from attack along Ikesakes Reef but, having been defeated, were forced to leave.[8] There are Palau Cave Paintings on the island.[9]
7°17′06″N134°17′01″E / 7.284945°N 134.283624°E /7.284945; 134.283624 (Ulong Island)
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