Manta Ray Night Snorkel

We can’t think of a more awe-inspiring way to experience the beauty of Hawaii’s marine life than the Manta Ray Night Snorkel. This 2.5-hour adventure immerses you in the warm waters, where you’ll have the chance to witness these gentle giants up close. With a small group size and stunning sunset views, it’s an unforgettable opportunity that’s perfect for nature enthusiasts and thrill-seekers alike. Let’s dive into the details and explore what makes this excursion so…

Key Points

• The activity takes place on the Big Island of Hawaii and lasts 2.5 hours, allowing participants to swim with giant manta rays at night.
• The tour is highly rated with over 1,100 reviews and guarantees manta ray sightings or a voucher for another tour.
• Participants will have an intimate and respectful encounter with manta rays, which can have wingspans of 4 to 12 feet and weigh 400 to 1200 pounds.
• The tour provides all necessary equipment, including snorkel gear and wetsuits, and has a maximum group size of 30 travelers for a more personalized experience.
• Guests must know how to swim, and the tour may be canceled if minimum group numbers are not met, with a full refund or alternative offered.

Overview of the Manta Ray Night Snorkel

The Manta Ray Night Snorkel is an unforgettable activity on the Big Island of Hawaii.

Lasting 2.5 hours, this tour takes you to swim with giant manta rays as they feed on plankton at night.

With a 4.6/5 rating from over 1,100 reviews, you’re guaranteed to see the mantas, or receive a voucher for another tour.

Equipment like snorkel gear and wetsuits is provided, and you’ll dive 30-35 feet to watch these incredible creatures with wingspans up to 12 feet.

It’s an intimate, respectful encounter you won’t soon forget.

Location and Duration

The Manta Ray Night Snorkel takes place on the Big Island of Hawaii in the USA.

The activity lasts 2.5 hours, providing ample time to swim with these gentle giants. Departures vary by season, with options from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM.

The tour company accommodates a maximum group size of 30 travelers, ensuring an intimate experience. While not wheelchair accessible, children under 5 can participate with life vests.

With over 1,150 reviews rating it 4.6 out of 5, it’s clear this is a must-do activity for those visiting Kona.

Reviews and Pricing

With over 1,150 reviews rating the Manta Ray Night Snorkel 4.6 out of 5, it’s clear this activity is a must-do for those visiting the Big Island.

Priced from $80 per person, the 2.5-hour experience provides a unique opportunity to swim with these gentle giants. Manta sightings are guaranteed, and if none occur, you’ll receive a voucher for another tour.

The equipment is provided, and the interactions are respectful, making this a once-in-a-lifetime adventure.

While some guests reported sea sickness, the overall consensus is that this activity is well worth the cost and shouldn’t be missed.

Manta Ray Encounter Details

Swim alongside giant manta rays as they gracefully glide through the waters, feeding on plankton in the pitch-black night.

We’ll watch the Kona sunset before donning our snorkel gear and wetsuits to explore the underwater world.

Enjoy this unique experience, observing the manta rays’ impressive 4 to 12-foot wingspans and 400 to 1200-pound frames as they effortlessly move through the 30 to 35-foot depths.

Our interactions are passive and respectful, allowing us to fully appreciate these magnificent creatures.

With the manta ray sightings guaranteed, this is an opportunity not to be missed during your time on the Big Island.

Snorkeling Depth and Equipment

Snorkel gear, wetsuits, and flotation devices are all provided for this experience, allowing us to explore the 30 to 35-foot depths with ease.

This depth range offers an up-close encounter with the majestic manta rays, whose wingspans can reach up to 12 feet and weigh over 1,000 pounds.

The provided equipment ensures we can stay comfortably submerged for extended periods, maximizing our chances of witnessing these gentle giants glide effortlessly through the water as they feed on plankton.

With everything we need supplied, we can focus on the mesmerizing experience of swimming alongside these magnificent creatures.

Meeting Point and Departure Times

The meeting point for this experience is Bite Me Sport Fishing in Kailua-Kona, Hawaii.

You’ll need to check in at least 30 minutes prior to departure.

The tour departs at varying times depending on the season – from January through March, it’s at 5:30 PM and 8:30 PM, while from April through September, it’s at 6:00 PM and 9:00 PM.

During the October to December period, the departures are at 5:00 PM and 8:00 PM.

The maximum group size is 30 travelers, and the experience isn’t wheelchair accessible.

Children under 5 must wear life vests.

Safety Considerations

To participate in the Manta Ray Night Snorkel, guests must know how to swim. Safety is paramount on this adventure:

• Minimum swimming ability is required as the snorkeling occurs in 30-35 feet of water.

• The tour may be canceled if minimum group numbers aren’t met, but you’ll receive a full refund or an alternative offering.

• You can cancel up to 24 hours before the start for free, so plan accordingly if weather or health concerns arise.

• Snacks, water, and flotation devices are provided, but motion sickness is common in rough seas.

• Children under 5 must wear life vests, and the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible.

Guest Feedback and Experiences

Many guests described the Manta Ray Night Snorkel as a must-do activity while in Kona, emphasizing the unique experience of swimming with these gentle giants.

Positive reviews highlighted the proximity to the mantas and the knowledgeable, friendly crew.

However, some reported sea sickness due to rough waters, advising caution for those prone to motion sickness.

While visibility and conditions received mixed reviews, with poor weather leading to no manta sightings for some, the overall consensus is that this is a thrilling and memorable activity that shouldn’t be missed during a visit to the Big Island.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Snorkel Gear?

We recommend using the snorkel gear provided by the tour. It’s included in the price and ensures proper fit and functioning for your safety. You’re free to bring your own, but the tour provides everything you’ll need.

Are Photos and Videos Allowed During the Experience?

Yes, you’re welcome to bring your own underwater camera equipment to capture photos and videos during the manta ray night snorkel experience. The crew will provide guidance on how to best photograph the mantas.

How Do I Communicate With the Crew During the Tour?

We can communicate with the crew during the tour by asking questions, raising any concerns, and letting them know if we’re feeling unwell. The crew is there to ensure our safety and enjoyment, so don’t hesitate to engage with them.

Is There a Minimum Age Requirement for Participants?

The activity has a minimum age requirement of 5 years old. Children under 5 must wear life vests during the tour. This ensures the safety and enjoyment of all participants.

Can I Request a Private Tour or Smaller Group Size?

While the standard tour has a maximum group size of 30, we can inquire about arranging a private or smaller group tour for your preferences. Contact the tour operator to discuss availability and pricing for customized options.

The Sum Up

We can’t think of a more awe-inspiring way to experience the majesty of manta rays than this unforgettable night snorkel. With guaranteed sightings and an intimate group size, it’s the perfect adventure for ocean enthusiasts. Don’t miss out on this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to swim alongside these gentle giants under the stars. Prepare to be amazed!