Mi'il Channel

Mi'il Channel cuts through the reef on Yap's western side, and its cleaning stations are where the island's manta rays gather: the animals hold position over coral heads while cleaner wrasse work them, which lets divers settle on the bottom and watch at close range. Yap built its diving reputation on this. The mantas are present year round but concentrate through the winter months. Yap's manta population has been studied for decades and individual animals are identified by their belly markings.

What you actually see

• The cleaning stations - coral heads where mantas hold position to be cleaned.
• The mantas - the resident population Yap's diving is built on.
• The channel - the cut through the reef the rays move along.
• The close range - divers settled on the bottom rather than chasing.

When to go

December to April is the peak season when mantas concentrate. They are present year round in smaller numbers. Visibility in the channel is variable.

Honest expectations

Sightings are not guaranteed even in season. Visibility in the channel is often poor because of the current that brings the food. Diving permits and operator fees apply.

Nearby

Colonia is east, and Bechiyal is north.