MantaFest 2025, Yap, Micronesia

Jennifer Ross · Issue 147, Nov/Dec 2025 · pp. 55–58

For many of us, returning to Yap each year feels less like travel and more like coming home — home to mantas, coral gardens, and a community that shares our love for the sea. From late August to early September, Manta Ray Bay Resort & Spa, along with Yap Divers hosts an outstanding event called Mantafest. As the name implies, this tiny tropical island paradise in Micronesia comes alive with two weeks of diving, creative photo workshops, and camaraderie. Now in its 18th year, MantaFest 2025 welcomed both returning participants and enthusiastic newcomers from around the world. On arrival, guests are greeted with hand woven baskets filled with dive goodies and handmade flower head leis presented by local children dressed in traditional attire. It is not unusual to feel as though you have stepped back in time as you get a real taste of Yap’s people, heritage, and rhythm of life. Dive. Learn.…