Ngarchelong, Palau – May 16, 2025 – In a milestone for community-led conservation, Ngarchelong State officially received a fully restored 40-foot catamaran from OneReef Micronesia to serve as a floating ranger station for Northern Reef marine surveillance.
Held at Ollei Port, the informal handover ceremony concluded a two-year collaboration to repurpose the vessel—originally acquired in 2020—to bolster Ngarchelong’s capacity to monitor and protect its marine resources. Governor Dwight Ngiraibai, High Chief Uong Er Etei Mathias Erbai, Chief Ranger Raylan Roman, and PAN Coordinator Adara Temong joined OneReef representatives in signing a Memorandum of Understanding that formalized the transfer and ongoing commitments.
The catamaran, now outfitted with dual 300HP Mercury SeaPro engines, full electrical and steering systems, an onboard lavatory, and reinforced fuel storage, is built for extended patrols and overnight shifts in the 197.4 km² Ngarchelong Marine Managed Area (NMMA). Its rugged build ensures ranger safety even in rough offshore conditions.
Ngarchelong State has committed to maintaining the vessel and integrating it into a regular patrol schedule. “This vessel represents more than just a boat—it reflects trust, shared stewardship, and our commitment to protect the ocean that sustains our people,” said Governor Ngiraibai. Deployment will begin following final safety checks and training.