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The 18th Annual MantaFest has wrapped up at Manta Ray Bay Resort, and what a celebration it was! Guests from around the world joined us for two weeks of unforgettable diving, photo workshops, cultural experiences, and the kind of camaraderie that makes this event so unique.
This year’s MantaFest proved to be another fun and successful event, with many returning participants and a wonderful mix of newcomers. While we missed our dear friends and presenters Ray Bullion, Andy Schumacher, and Frank Schneider, we were fortunate to have Tim Rock and David Fleetham back with us. Logan Wood from Ikelite joined us again this year as a presenter and videography expert, and he brought a fresh and youthful viewpoint to our event with his seminars and underwater expertise.
For the past several years after the pandemic, we have been continually doing our best to upgrade our services and products to ensure the enjoyment of all that visit us. MantaFest goers were greeted with a traditional basket with dive goodies along with a freshly made head flower lei given by local kids dressed in traditional attire. Participants also spent their first day easing into the preparation of the event by joining our newly introduced Traditional Attire Seminar, presented by Martin Runiyol, a native of Yap and an instructor of Agricultural Sciences at the local college (College of Micronesia).
Our dive day began with two morning tanks, followed by a delicious lunch on the S/V MNUW, then an afternoon of learning in our daily photography/videography seminars conducted by our presenters, giving participants expert insight on composition, lighting, post-processing, and storytelling. From small-group discussions to cultural shoots with local models, each session helped build skills while fostering creativity and inspiration.
On certain days, we even ventured further to experience a blackwater dive in pitch darkness. Photographers captured otherworldly creatures drifting up from the deep, adding a thrilling new dimension to the event. The increasing popularity of this new venture has prompted us to offer this dive on a weekly basis and upon request, particularly during the non-trade wind season (June – mid November).
We even had days of wreck diving, where divers got to explore a supply ship that ran aground on the eastern reefs of Yap in the ‘90s, and other days were spent photographing amazing creatures such as the broad club cuttlefish, Ascarosepion latimanus, which is among the largest and most visually stunning cephalopods found in the Indo-Pacific.
The first week welcomed us with calm seas and lovely sunshine, but as a tropical depression formed nearby, we encountered days filled with isolated showers and rough waters; however, that didn’t deter us from diving. No day was skipped due to weather, and everyone returned with thrilling tales of their adventures.
Another special highlight this year was the work of visiting artist and muralist Susan Watkins, who painted a striking reef mural featuring a manta and turtle as well as our dive guides, Nico and Erwin. The artwork now lives at the resort as a lasting reminder of this year’s creativity and community.
A big “Yeehaaaw!” to the talented winners of the MantaFest 2025 photo and video contests. From breathtaking wide-angle manta encounters to delicate macro artistry, this year’s entries showcased the incredible diversity of Yap’s marine life and the creativity of our participants. Prizes included top-tier underwater gear and dive travel packages, thanks to the generosity of our event partners.
Plans are already underway for next year’s event, with fresh surprises and new opportunities to learn, dive, and celebrate together. We can’t wait to welcome back our growing community of underwater storytellers for another two weeks of adventure in Yap.
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The entire staff was incredible! You all go above and beyond to make this experience truly unforgettable! A hug thank you for an amazing week! We felt like a part of the family! Looking forward to writing an outstanding review & experience on social media!!
All of the staff are wonderful. Shout out to Flo and Clo as they are fun to be around. Can’t say enough about the dive staff either! This is the 3rd time at Manta Bay Resort. Each time has been special and unique. Can’t say enough about the people, staff and presenters. We will be back!
Every single person/employee was exceptional-always friendly & wanting to please. One food choice was varied and everything we had, we enjoyed.
