NIGHT MANTA RAY FULL
NIGHT MANTA RAY FREE

Even gently rubbing up against us at times. Because we were on a small board, when the mantas fed below us, they came very close to us. With the smaller board our guide could easily move us around the area, whereas the bigger boat tours seemed to use large, immobile platforms for viewing. They started feeding below us almost immediately and kept on coming. There were only six of us on our boat and when arrived at the feeding sight we all swam over and grabbed onto the modified board to view the mantas. We chose to go on a tour with a small number of guests over a big boat tour and are very glad we did. They are harmless, beautiful creatures that Hawaii is lucky to have feed so close to shore.

What a unique and incredible experience! The mantas don't disappoint and you will definitely get up close and personal with them. I wish I had talked to the captain, because on my way home the pain increased, and it did not subside for several hours, til after soaking in hot water. As a result of the stings, I left the water early. The other bad thing was that I felt myself get stung on my arm and then my leg, and I told the guide, who just shrugged it off, saying, yeah, there are jellyfish-like things that sting. Or simply being quiet and allowing the magic to happen. The worst thing about our trip was the guide in the water with us, who seemed bored by doing many trips and spent much of our time chatting with other guides, rather than talking to us about the magnificent creatures. The best thing about Hawaii Island and Ocean Tours was the expertise of our boat captain, who could talk knowledgeably about the rays, the site, and the experience. All of the boats leave from the same harbor, go to the same location, and use the same rafts, so it may not matter much which operator you choose. We chose Hawaii Island and Ocean Tours, because it offered a special price through Trip Advisor (and also Groupon) that was much less than most other tour operators.

The manta rays are truly magnificent creatures, and I hope y’all will book a manta tour. Maybe one day we will get to go back and try again. I know they felt bad about the mantas not showing up and they mentioned and others since have said mantas showing up is usually like an 80% success rate.

NIGHT MANTA RAY FREE

Both nights we were there there were groups of scuba divers or free divers under us using the lights for pictures or just to play under us which was frustrating since we had paid for the experience and felt they were interfering but there was nothing really the crew could do. It was cool but no where near the amazing experience we were expecting or hoping for. We came back and were all a little hesitant to freeze again but the boat radioed into the doc and said there were 2 mantas out there so we suited up amd we went into the water, we saw 1 baby manta for about 2 minutes total of our time. We decided to reschedule along with the other couple that was out with our family on the tour. The crew felt bad and told us we could rescheduled or get a partial refund. It was freezing, we were shivering but it was worth it to see the Mantas but sadly not one ever showed that night. But we were in the water for awhile and no Mantas showed up. We went the first night we were in Kona, the staff was friendly and knowledgable. We booked the manta experience for our family inter island travel because so many friends told us it was amazing in kona and a must do while there for our kids birthdays. This tour/activity will have a maximum of 13 travelers.

NIGHT MANTA RAY FULL

If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund This experience requires a minimum number of travelers.If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund This experience requires good weather.Not recommended for those who have recently undergone surgery or who may have mobility/physical restrictions.Please call to confirm availability before purchasing.Your safety is our priority! If you or anyone in your group would like a lifejacket please contact our reservation line.Guest must be able to converse in English to understand verbal instructions and safety briefings.Guests must be able to independently climb up a boat ladder.Previous snorkeling experience is required.No heart problems or other serious medical conditions.Not recommended for travelers with back problems.Confirmation will be received at time of booking.

Night manta ray