QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS AROUND THE MANTA RAY NIGHT SNORKEL
Have you always dreamt of going on a Manta Ray snorkel in Kona but have plenty of unanswered questions? Then this blog may be your much-needed deciding factor!
Kona is well-known for the beautiful and majestic sightings of Manta Rays. These magnificent creatures are peaceful animals you can watch underwater as they swim around chasing plankton for food. Being able to see these animals and get close to them makes Manta Ray snorkeling a once-in-a-lifetime adventure you don’t want to miss!
What Is A Manta Ray Snorkeling Tour?
A Manta Ray snorkeling experience should be a part of everyone’s bucket list. The snorkeling activity began when people noticed that the light from Kona Sheraton Hotel attracted the Manta Rays to feed on plankton. After that, the area became a popular tourist destination to see Manta Rays dance gracefully underwater each night.
The tour usually takes place in the evenings, so your group will be given floating light boards to illuminate the water. This light will attract the plankton, which will attract the Manta Rays. As you float on the water’s surface, these animals will swim beneath you and give you an unforgettable experience.
You will also have a designated guide who will be there every step of the way, inform you of everything you need to know about Manta Rays and advise you on how you can do the activity safely while making the most of it.
Where Can I Find Manta Rays in Kona?
Whether you’re snorkeling or diving, there are three famous areas for Manta Rays encounters on the Big Island: Manta Point, Manta Heaven and Manta Village (Keauhou). Over the years, this has become the Manta Ray’s feeding grounds, so night after night, they are there for you to see and feed.
The Difference Between A Manta Ray Snorkeling Tour and A Manta Ray Dive
If you’re going on a Hawaii Manta Ray night snorkel tour, you will stay near the water surface while holding onto the illuminating floating device. Snorkeling allows you to see the Manta Rays gracefully swimming beneath you. They often swim within inches of your face!
If you’re joining a Manta Ray dive adventure, you will be sitting on the ocean floor and observing the Manta Rays swirling above or next to you as they eat the plankton. During the night dive, Manta Rays can come as close as nose-length! But take note that you have to be a certified diver to join the Manta Ray night dive.
Is It Safe To Swim With Manta Rays?
A Manta Ray Night Snorkel on Big Island is a safe and magical experience. Manta Rays are peaceful and friendly creatures that pose no danger to humans. They are curious animals and may approach you to investigate, but don’t panic if this happens. Manta Rays have horn-shaped cephalic fins, which some think give them an evil appearance, so much so that they are often referred to as “devilfish.” But they are far from it. As they glide through the water, they look like sea angels. They do not have barbs at the end of their tails or teeth. As they gather around your group during night snorkeling, they come to feed on plankton and will not take an interest in you as you watch them filter feed. No need to worry about your safety!
Can I Still Join A Manta Ray Tour If I Can’t Swim?
A Manta Ray Night Snorkel activity does require some swimming. Your group will hold on to a large device where you can float and look at the Manta Rays below you. With the help of your guide, your whole group will be positioned in a good Manta viewing area.
If you think you can’t float enough to snorkel, you can ask your tour guide for other options, such as a lifejacket, to make your overall experience comfortable.
What If Manta Rays Don’t Show Up?
Manta Ray sightings have a success rate of 90-95 percent in Kona. Some tour companies will offer a free or discounted second tour if there are no Manta Rays on your first attempt. Make sure to book this activity early on your trip so you have time to spare if you need to reschedule it.
Can I Touch The Manta Rays?
You must refrain from touching or petting the Manta Rays. Always keep your distance from their feeding path and allow them to swirl and roam around their feeding area. Your tour operator will guide you and tell you where you should stay during the activity.
The Best Time of Year To Go On A Manta Ray Night Snorkel In Kona
Are you planning on a Manta Ray night snorkel tour? Kona’s coast has favorable seas all year long. The mantas are seen on most nights.
Create Beautiful Memories With Dolphin Discoveries
Dolphin Discoveries is dedicated to helping you form beautiful memories by taking you on diving and snorkeling experiences with majestic Manta Rays under the blanket of the starry Hawaiian sky.
Join us on this beautiful adventure by booking your trip with us. Get in touch with us today!