There’s always something special about welcoming new divers into the underwater world. This week, it was even more meaningful.

Rubin, Scarlett, Lina, and Leni have all earned their SSI Junior Open Water Diver certifications after completing their training with Bill Acker and Manta Ray Bay Resort instructor Stefan.

As we celebrate Manta Ray Bay Resort’s 40th anniversary, it was wonderful to see another generation beginning their underwater adventures in Yap. Rubin is the son of two of our resort team members, continuing another proud Manta Ray Bay Resort tradition. Scarlett, Lina, and Leni each became the third generation of divers in their families. Lina and Leni are the granddaughters of Detlef Trux, and Scarlett is the granddaughter of Bill Macdonald.

Watching young divers gain confidence, master new skills, and experience their first breaths underwater never gets old. Seeing families share that experience across generations makes it even more rewarding.

A huge “Congratulations!” to all four of our newest SSI Junior Open Water Divers. We hope this is just the beginning of a lifetime of adventures beneath the surface.

Enjoy a few highlights from their training, pool sessions, and checkout dives!