Manta Ray Bay Resort & Yap Divers

Manta Ray Bay Resort & Yap Divers is a 36-room property located in Colonia, on the island of Yap in Micronesia. Established in 1986, the resort is renowned for its diver-focused facilities and its commitment to showcasing Yapese culture and natural beauty. The property offers direct beach access, a bay-side infinity pool, and a unique dining experience aboard a historic Indonesian schooner. With a dedicated dive centre, on-property brewery, and a spa that draws on local island botanicals, the resort caters to both adventure seekers and those interested in cultural immersion. The founder, Bill Acker, is a prominent figure in the diving community, having been inducted into the Scuba Diving Hall of Fame. The resort is also a gateway to the traditions and landscapes of Yap, an island known for its stone money, vibrant festivals, and enduring village life.

Manta Ray Bay Resort & Yap Divers appears in the EMPTYJET guide of 7,777 hotels on Earth as a Selected property. Operating since 1986, the resort pairs dive-centred infrastructure — Yap Diver’s facilities and an equipment rinse-and-dry area — with beach access, an onboard dining experience at the Mnuw and an on-property Stone Money Brewing Co. The founder’s induction into the Scuba Diving Hall of Fame further underlines the house’s credentials as a long-established, guest-validated centre for diving and local culture.

The Manta Ray Bay Resort & Yap Divers opened its doors in 1986, founded by Bill Acker, who first arrived in Yap as a Peace Corps Volunteer in 1976. Acker, who has resided on Yap for nearly three decades, established the resort and its affiliated dive shop, Yap Divers, in the summer of 1986. His deep connection to the island and its waters is reflected in his personal record of over 9,000 dives in Yap and his induction into the Scuba Diving Hall of Fame in 2014. The resort has since become a fixture in Yap, serving as both a hospitality and diving hub.

The resort features individually-themed, ocean-inspired rooms, many of which offer views of the bay and lagoon. The interiors are designed to reflect the maritime and island setting, with luxurious touches and well-appointed amenities. The Taro Leaf Spa is decorated with island motifs and uses locally sourced plants in its treatments. Some rooms are equipped with private dip-pools, enhancing the sense of privacy and relaxation. The property’s most distinctive architectural feature is the Mnuw Restaurant, housed aboard a 100+ year old Indonesian schooner moored in front of the resort, providing a unique floating dining venue.

Manta Ray Bay Resort offers 36 rooms, including 35 ocean-themed, well-appointed accommodations. Each room is individually themed and features amenities such as air conditioning, high-speed internet, IDD telephone, and in-room potable water. Ocean view and deluxe rooms are equipped with refrigerators. All rooms are non-smoking. Select accommodations include private dip-pools, providing an added element of comfort and exclusivity. The design and amenities cater to both divers and leisure travellers, with a focus on comfort and convenience.

Dining at Manta Ray Bay Resort centres on the Mnuw Restaurant, which is uniquely situated aboard a historic Indonesian schooner moored in front of the property. The restaurant serves a diverse menu featuring Asian, local, and European recipes, and its main dining room offers a memorable setting on the water. The Nautical Weaver Bar and the Crow’s Nest Bar provide additional venues for relaxation and socialising. The resort is also home to the Stone Money Brewing Co., which produces home-brewed beer for guests. For those seeking a more casual or outdoor experience, the resort organises beach BBQs and lunches, with set prices for group and day packages.

The Taro Leaf Spa at Manta Ray Bay Resort draws inspiration from the island’s natural environment, with décor based on local themes and treatments utilising plants sourced from Yap. The spa offers a tranquil setting for relaxation, complemented by the resort’s bay-side infinity pool with a soothing waterfall. Some guest rooms feature private dip-pools, further enhancing the wellness experience. The property also offers a range of outdoor activities, including kayak tours and fishing charters, supporting both relaxation and adventure.

The property offers concierge services to assist with travel arrangements, including flight bookings and date selection. For guests booking fishing packages, complimentary in-room WiFi and roundtrip airport transfers are included. The resort’s focus on divers is reflected in its dedicated equipment rinse and dry area, and its staff are experienced in catering to the needs of both divers and leisure travellers.

Manta Ray Bay Resort & Yap Divers is well-suited to travellers seeking an immersive experience in Micronesia, particularly those with an interest in diving, marine life, and authentic island culture. The property’s diver-focused amenities, unique dining aboard a historic schooner, and commitment to cultural preservation make it a compelling choice for adventure seekers and culturally curious guests. Its strong guest reputation and practical comforts, such as beach access, spa, and attentive service, position it as a reliable base for exploring Yap’s natural and cultural riches. The resort is especially appropriate for those who value a sense of place and community over international luxury trappings.

The resort offers a range of practical amenities, including free in-room WiFi and roundtrip airport transfers for guests booking fishing packages. Beach BBQs and day trips are available at set prices, with a minimum group size for BBQs. The concierge can assist with flight bookings and date selection. The property’s spa uses locally sourced botanicals, and some rooms feature private dip-pools. The on-property brewery provides home-brewed beer, and the main restaurant is located aboard a historic schooner. The annual Yap Day festival, held from February 28 to March 2, 2026, offers a unique opportunity to experience Yapese culture firsthand.