Close Encounters: Manta Edition

Close Encounters: Manta Edition

Close Encounters: Manta Edition

Experience the most intimate manta ray encounters possible with our specially designed small-group adventure that maximizes close interactions while maintaining ethical wildlife viewing standards. Our expert positioning techniques and strategic timing create opportunities for breathtakingly close encounters with these gentle giants, often within arm’s reach. This premium experience combines marine education with unparalleled access to Hawaii’s most magnificent marine creatures.

Activity Price

180 USD

Duration

2 Hours

Age

Ages 10+

Location

Waimea

Amenities

Small group specialized positioning for intimate encounters
Advanced behavioral education and ethical interaction protocols

Special Instruction

Intimacy Meets Ocean Majesty

Strategic Positioning for Maximum Intimacy

Our expert guides use advanced positioning techniques and understanding of manta feeding patterns to place participants in optimal locations for close encounters. Small group sizes ensure everyone gets prime positioning without crowding or competition for viewing angles. Strategic timing coincides with peak manta activity periods when these gentle giants are most approachable and active. Our methods respect manta natural behaviors while creating opportunities for incredibly close interactions that larger groups cannot achieve.

Advanced Marine Behavior Education

Learn sophisticated manta ray behavioral patterns and communication methods that enhance your ability to predict and appreciate close encounters. Our marine biologists explain subtle behavioral cues that indicate approachable moments versus times to maintain distance for manta comfort. Understanding these patterns allows for more meaningful interactions and better anticipation of incredible encounter opportunities. This education transforms passive observation into active participation in the manta’s underwater world.

Ethical Close Encounter Protocols

Experience the closest possible encounters while maintaining strict ethical guidelines that prioritize manta ray welfare and natural behavior patterns. Our protocols ensure that close encounters enhance rather than disrupt natural feeding and social behaviors. Participants learn responsible interaction techniques that actually encourage manta curiosity and approach behaviors. This ethical approach often results in longer, more meaningful encounters as mantas feel comfortable and undisturbed.

Close Encounter Experience Specifications

About
Additional information
Pricing
Cancellations

Overview

Duration: 2 Hours
Meeting Point: South Kawaihae Small Boat Harbor
Age Requirement: 10+
Group Size: Up to 6 Guests

Activity Details:
Embark on a two-hour excursion for an unforgettable encounter with Hawai’i’s most surreal underwater experiencegliding alongside friendly manta rays. In the waters off Puako (far from the crowded sites of Kona), manta rays gather in an otherworldly dance of light and motion.

  • Divers will settle below, watching as manta rays sweep silently overhead, sometimes close enough that their bellies brush across your head as they pass.

  • Snorkelers will float at the surface, where manta rays roll and spin just inches away, often pressing belly-to-belly for unforgettable encounters.

With only six guests on board, every trip feels like a private mission, ensuring intimacy and respect for the ocean, leaving you with lifelong memories of your brush with these majestic creatures.

What’s Included:

  • All necessary gear is included. However, if you prefer, you may bring your own gear.

Itinerary:

  • Boat departs 60 minutes before sunset.

  • Sample Agenda:

    • 5:00 PM – Meet at the boat

    • 5:30 PM – Boat departs

    • 7:30 PM – Arrive back at the harbor

Times are subject to change daily based on the sunset.

Important Note:
If you have more than 6 divers, please call 808-443-4497 to discuss your booking options!

Special Requirements:

  • Certified Divers Only

    • All guests who are diving must bring proof of certification.

    • Newly certified divers are welcome, even if this is your first ocean dive.

Disclaimers:

  • The Manta Guarantee:
    If you don’t see manta rays on your dive, you’re invited to come back at no charge until you do. We will also honor Blue Wilderness’s original manta guarantee for guests who dived under that name.

  • Rescheduling for Weather:
    In the event of inclement weather, we will attempt to reschedule, especially during the winter months.

    • If rescheduling is not available, a full refund or credit for one dive will be issued.

Pricing:

  • US$180Divers (One Tank, Price per person)

  • US$150Snorkelers (Must know how to swim)

Cancellation Policy:

  • Customers can rebook online or receive a full refund or credit with 24 hours’ notice.

  • Customers will also receive a full refund or credit in case of operator cancellation due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances.

  • To inquire about cancellations, please contact us by phone.

  • No-shows will be charged the full price of the trip.

Close Encounters Experience Questions

  • Following ethical guidelines, mantas often approach within 3-5 feet during feeding behaviors. We position participants optimally while respecting wildlife protection standards that ensure both safety and manta comfort.

  • Smaller groups, specialized positioning techniques, advanced behavioral education, and strategic timing create opportunities for much more intimate encounters than standard large-group tours.

  • No touching is ever permitted or necessary for incredible experiences. Manta rays often approach very closely on their own when they feel comfortable and undisturbed by respectful observers.

  • Strong swimming ability and comfort in open water required for optimal positioning. Participants should be comfortable treading water and following precise guide instructions for safety and encounter quality.

  • Our guides read manta behavior carefully, positioning participants in natural feeding paths rather than pursuing or cornering mantas. This passive approach often results in more natural and closer encounters.

What Our Guests Say