Learn more about these majestic creatures on Guided Snorkeling Excursions or a Manta Ray Awareness Diver Specialty Course
The Manta Rays are back! From June to October, guests at Milaidhoo Maldives are invited to snorkel and dive with these gentle and graceful giants of the ocean.
Set within a protected UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in the Maldives’ Baa Atoll, Milaidhoo is located just a 15-minute speedboat ride away from Hanifaru Bay, the world’s most renowned Manta Ray feeding station. The Bay is the perfect location to witness the gathering of hundreds of Manta Rays (Manta Alfredi), when each year, they migrate to the atoll’s plankton-rich waters.
During Manta Ray Season, Milaidhoo arranges private and small group excursions for guests to snorkel freely among these majestic creatures, coordinated with the Hanifaru Bay Marine Park rangers. These experts ensure that guests enjoy the most rewarding sightings, alongside Milaidhoo’s resident Marine Biologist who shares some fascinating insights into their lives.
In addition to offering snorkelling excursions to Hanifaru Bay, Milaidhoo has also introduced a special Manta Ray exploration offer for divers. The ‘Manta Ray Awareness Diver Specialty Course’ by PADI is available for all certified divers throughout the upcoming Manta Season.
As well as getting up close and personal with the Mantas, divers can also learn how the Rays are identified and the ways in which Marine Biologists keep track of their movements. The special course consists of two theory sessions which cover insights on the species and their behaviour, as well as the efforts undertaken to protect them.
Milaidhoo offers excursions to various dive spots known for frequent sightings of Manta Rays during the season, and while encounters can never be guaranteed, Milaidhoo’s Ocean Stories team is always ready to jump aboard a dhoni to take guests for a dive trip whenever Mantas are spotted nearby.
“It is a gamble with nature, as we can never be sure to find Mantas,” says Ocean Stories Dive Base Leader, Judith Hannak. “However, all the places which are known for Mantas are also beautiful for diving – although the thrill of every dive is a Manta encounter. We are extremely excited as the season starts again and are looking forward to sharing our insights and knowledge about these wonderful underwater creatures with our guests.”
HOW
Guests who wish to participate in the ‘Manta Ray Awareness Diver Specialty Course’ need to present a valid dive certification. Prices start from US$ 445 per person. Snorkelling excursions to Hanifaru Bay start from US$ 195 per person. Rates in a Water Pool Villa start from US$1,200 per night in June for two guests on half board basis.