Widely recognized as one of the top underwater adventures in the world, swimming with majestic manta rays in the night waters off of Kona is a thrilling and beautiful experience. These magnificent creatures, some reaching up to 15 feet in width, elegantly glide through the darkness, performing a mesmerizing "manta ray ballet" as they feed on the abundant plankton in the area. Unlike their stingray relatives, these harmless creatures have no stingers or sharp teeth, making the encounter safe and enjoyable.
Conveniently located just minutes away from the "Manta Ray Village" site and adjacent to the Outrigger Kona Resort (formerly Sheraton), this adventure departs from Keauhou Harbor aboard a spacious trimaran. Before entering the water at the site, the knowledgeable crew will provide you with a comprehensive briefing, ensuring you feel prepared and informed. Throughout the experience, you'll hold onto a specially designed manta ray flotation device near the boat, making it easy and comfortable. Equipped with snorkeling gear, you'll float effortlessly keeping your eyes peeled for the incredible sight of these gentle giants as they gracefully feed on the microscopic plankton drawn to the flotation lights, sometimes coming within inches of your face. After approximately 45 minutes, you'll come back onboard for some light snacks and hot cocoa & tea, and giddy from having the underwater experience of a lifetime!
There are two options when booking: the Early version, which starts 6/6:30 pm depending on the time of year, is offered first on a date, and when that is sold out (or close to), then the Late version (which starts 8:30/9 pm) is also available to book. If booking well in advance, you'll likely only see the Early version, whereas if you are booking closer to the date, you may only see the Late version (although during peak season it can still sell out weeks in advance). They are essentially the same tour experience, with the small difference being the Early one is associated with sunset, whereas the Late one does not have sunset but tends to be less crowded (both on this boat, and in terms of the number of boats in the area). You can see the exact departure time during checkout, with check-in 30 minutes prior.
Why This Tour Stands Out
Customer Rating:
5 out of 5 stars
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On the rare occasion that no manta rays are seen (they are seen on 92%+ of nights), guests may try again another night at no charge provided it is within 7 days and there is available space. Advance reservations are required. For this reason, and also in case of a weather cancellation, it is recommended to book a date early in your trip. The guarantee does not apply to Ride Alongs. No refunds are provided if no manta rays are seen.
Yes, please mention at check-in, and you can also leave a note at online checkout.
Yes, and most people wear them (included), but they are optional. Shorties are used that are easy to put on, and there are all sizes from extra small child to adults 5XL. More specifically, women sizes go up to 22 (220-230 lbs), after which the men's sizes would work for women. Men's sizes go up to 5XL, which has worked for people over 300 lbs.
Water temperature ranges from 74 degrees (winter) to 81 degrees (summer).
No
There is generally 1 guide per 10 snorkelers, with 2-3 lifeguards in the water with guests at all times.
The boat generally takes up to 36-40 people.
There is no weight limit. However, participants should be mobile and able to support themselves around the vessel and getting in/out of the water. Also, the largest wetsuit (optional) is a 5XL which has worked for people that are over 300 lbs.