Is swimming with manta rays in Hawaii safe?


Is swimming with manta rays in Hawaii safe? Swimming with manta rays can be perfectly safe for children – however, there are multiple reasons why we don't take children along on our manta ray moonlight swims… Since the inception of the manta swims at the hotel in 2015, we implemented a minimum age of 10-years old which was stricter than most boat operators.


How many manta rays are killed each year?

Every year, approximately 100 million sharks and 5,000 manta rays are killed.


What to do if a manta ray approaches you?

It is best to approach mantas slowly from their side allowing the animal to see you while it can maintain a clear path of travel ahead. Never chase after a manta ray. If you stay still they often come back for a closer look at you. Like you and I, mantas appreciate their personal space.


Is night snorkeling with manta rays worth it?

Kona manta ray snorkeling is one of the best wildlife experiences not only in Hawaii, but the entire world! Since it's a nighttime activity only accessible on a tour, it's helpful to know some details before diving in. This guide will help you plan your manta ray night snorkel!


What month are manta rays best in Hawaii?

Therefore, January through March is the ideal time to see humpback whales. In contrast, you can see manta rays around Hawaii all year long, especially on the west coast of the Big Island. Manta rays love warm weather and calm waters. As a result, you often will see manta rays most abundantly in the summer months.


Do sharks come near manta rays?

The natural predators of manta rays are a few types of sharks, killer whales and false killer whales. Occasionally you may see a manta with the characteristic 'half-moon' shark bite on it's wing. But the real danger to these sea creatures is, as always, humans and their activities.


Are manta rays friendly to humans?

Now, manta rays are not like most animals. Manta rays are friendly. They may approach you and often allow you to get reasonably close to them (which is why snorkeling with manta rays is such a breathtaking experience). But because they allow you to get close to them does not mean you should touch them.