Manta Ray snorkeling in Kona is one of the most remarkable things anyone can experience while visiting Hawaii.
Manta rays are some of the most majestic ocean creatures that pose no threats. They are typically white and grey in colors, though some black mantas have been spotted around our waters. Interestingly, manta rays are also a symbol of elegance, majesty, and freedom. So if you’d like to truly experience a Hawaiian adventure, don’t miss out on going Manta Ray snorkeling in Kona!
How remarkable is manta ray snorkeling in Kona?
Manta ray snorkeling in Kona is similar to “flying” along a giant underwater bird – which will definitely make this a memorable experience that can last a lifetime. Manta rays are considered the biggest rays on the planet. An average Manta ray can weigh up to 2 tons with a size that is up to 9 meters.
Amazingly, Manta ray’s wingspan is up to 16 feet (that’s an amazing five meters). Also, before going Manta ray snorkeling in Kona, you’ll get the chance to watch the Hawaiian sunset just before you jump into the water for a remarkable swimming experience.
While you’re at it, you’ll get the chance to learn about this beautiful sea creatures, the environment they live as well as their habits. The experience is also a perfect chance to learn about Kona’s underwater world at night when the mantas swim over to feed on plankton that gathers just off the Kona coast.
What to expect during a manta ray snorkeling tour?
Manta ray snorkeling tours usually start at the harbor which is where the boat departs. As expected, the boat will take you to one of the zones where the mantas feed on plankton. Just before you board the boat or while you’re on the way to the feeding zones, the crew will explain to you how you’re expected to behave while in the water. You’ll also learn a thing or two about manta rays.
During manta ray snorkeling in Kona, you will have to spend some time in the water. You’ll be required to hold on to a floating board so you can look down. To attract plankton which draws out the manta rays, bright lights are attached to the floating board. While the manta rays are feeding on plankton, they swim very close to the water surface giving you a perfect chance to snorkel alongside them.
Amazingly, there are up to 300 manta rays inhabiting the Kona Coast. Mantas are known for having a home range that stretches across 30 miles up and down the coast. Manta rays can swim at a speed of over 15mph, but they swim very slowly at night to enable them to consume as many plankton as possible.
Manta ray snorkeling in Kailua-Kona – What a wonderful experience!
Manta ray snorkeling is absolutely safe and a thrilling. experience Manta rays are totally harmless, they never hurt divers or swimmers. As a result of their curious nature, manta rays are known for swimming around divers. Also, the rays are known for jumping out of the water to get rid of their parasites.
Manta ray snorkeling in Kona is unlike any other manta ray snorkeling on the planet. The remarkable experience often starts with dive operators shining bright light to attract plankton. Manta rays are drawn to the presence of planktons, so they arrive in large numbers to feed on them and that’s your perfect chance for manta ray snorkeling in Kona.
