A manta ray night snorkel excursion is a great way to experience the beauty of the nighttime ocean without the danger of scuba diving in the middle of the day. These gentle giants cover their body parts with protective mucus and cannot harm you in any way. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience and is available only in Kona.
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Manta rays are harmless
While manta rays are harmless to humans, you should exercise caution when snorkeling with them. While they do not have barbs, stingers, or teeth, they can still cause injury if they are touched. It is best to position yourself near a boulder bottom, rubble, or open water column to avoid contact with the animal.
A manta ray’s body is distinctive from its cousin, the shark. Its shape resembles that of a paddle and its tail is covered with numerous white spots. Their upper surface is dark blue to black, while their underside is a pale gray. They are also distinctive for their pattern of blotches. Unlike sharks, manta rays are harmless to humans and do not have large teeth.
They are covered by protective mucous
The manta ray is covered in a protective mucous film that protects it from harm. However, removing this protective film can cause severe illness to the manta. The mucous layer protects the mantas from predators, such as sharks. Mantas are also among the most intelligent fish in the ocean. Their unique brain structure helps explain their gregarious nature.
It is important to remember that manta rays are covered in protective mucus, which is why it is not advisable to touch them. Touching them can cause bacterial infections. Since manta rays feed on plankton, they are covered in this mucus. Therefore, it is best to stay away from them while snorkeling.
They are a once in a lifetime experience
It’s easy to see why manta rays are so coveted by scuba divers. These majestic creatures can be spotted up close, and are also frequented by dolphins and monk seals. While snorkeling with manta rays, you may even get the chance to touch one! This is because manta rays feed on plankton that are attracted to lights in the ocean.
To make the most of your time with manta rays, you will want to book a trip at night. There are several companies offering this tour. The Hokulani is one of the best, and its crew will outfit you with the right gear and provide a safety briefing. During your tour, you will be captivated by the gentle giants as they glide past you and feast on plankton.
They are only found in Kona
When you’re on vacation in Kona, you should not miss a chance to visit one of the most famous attractions in Hawaii – the manta rays. These magnificent creatures are known as the “kings of the sea,” and the night snorkel in Kona offers the opportunity to experience them. The night snorkel is a great way to see the manta rays feeding on plankton.
The first manta ray sightings took place in the early 70s, when the lights from the Kona Surf hotel began shining in the ocean. The rays were attracted to the bright lights and began feeding in the evenings. Scuba operators soon began to organize night snorkel excursions in Kona. However, this activity was not always the most active scene in the ocean.
It is a one-to-three hour tour
If you want to see manta rays in the dark, you can opt for a night snorkel. The tour is usually one to three hours long and is subject to availability. In peak season, space may be limited. It is also important to note that night snorkels are non-transferable and do not expire.
The experience can be thrilling. But it can be nerve-wracking, too. While it is a great experience, it does require a certain level of experience with snorkeling and diving. Before embarking on a manta ray night snorkel, make sure you have had some experience with both.
Conclusion
Manta ray night snorkeling tours are weather dependent, so you may not see manta rays every night. Guests can bring their own cameras or use a GoPro. The manta ray night snorkel experience is a unique experience. You are required to wear snorkeling gear and hold onto the paddleboard at all times. Unlike stingrays, mantas have no teeth or tail spine and therefore cannot hurt humans.
