Hula kai manta ray night snorkel8/16/2023 ![]() ![]() Frequently, one or more of the rays did a graceful roll just under a snorkeler and purposely pressed its sleek white underbelly along the length of the viewer’s body – an exciting encounter that will be remembered by anyone that experiences it. The same rays tend to return for evening dining and playing with the snorkelers and divers.įor a period of about one-hour we watched these graceful giants do underwater summersaults just below us – performing like rolling acrobats with gray tops and white underbellies.Īlthough touching the mantas is not allowed, the creatures have no such restrictions. Each ray has distinctive “spots” that make identity possible. ![]() Manta rays are often given names by the crew of the Hula Kai. However, they do have size – up to 2,000 pounds – which they use in a very good-natured way. Mantas are fish related to the shark, but have no bones, teeth, barbs, or stingers. They, like the whale, are filter feeders. Manta rays are big, but harmless to humans. It did not take long before the first of six manta rays appeared from out of the shadows – and the fun began. Our bodies were made buoyant by the wetsuits, so maintaining our balance was not difficult. We looked down into the clear bay water and breathed through our snorkels. We entered the water by ladder and positioned ourselves around the floating pipe. Soon darkness was upon us, and the Hula Kai engaged underwater illumination used to attract plankton to the site. We were given a quick course on manta watching, which is done from a horizontal position floating on one’s stomach and holding fast to a length of 3” diameter buoyant pipe – set out from the stern of the boat much like a floating rectangle. We donned wetsuits, googles, and a snorkel provided by the concessionaire. We boarded the nearby Hula Kai at sunset and moved just off shore of the Sheraton Kona. The plankton are attracted to light and that is the secret to successful manta viewing from the Hula Kai. The resort can also organize a water adventure to view the manta rays up close from a local tour boat named the Hula Kai – an opportunity we eagerly welcomed. Guests can also attend a complimentary lecture about the manta rays arranged through the resort’s front desk. ![]() The Sheraton Kona Resort on the Big Island of Hawaii pays homage to these gentle giants by providing a viewing area for visitors at the resort’s Rays on the Bay restaurant.įrom the restaurant’s lookout, the magnificent and mysterious creatures can be seen gliding in the night ocean far below. People are fascinated by their opposing nature of ominous looks, and sweet dispositions. Do use the reef-friendly sunscreen they provide and do apply it to your neck and entire back because you will want to spend lots of time viewing the huge variety of brightly-colored tropical fish and coral formations.Manta rays are amazing and curious creatures. Both breakfast and lunch fare was fresh-prepared, extensive and oh-so-tasty! The pro-grade equipment they provided fit very well (no mask leaks!) The seamless check-in included complimentary Kona coffee, and every following aspect of our trip was very comfortable. expertly pointing out ocean and coastline features, helping us get the most out of our excursion, and finding a large pod of playful, bottle nose dolphins en route (see photo.) The other four crew mates were just as personable, accommodating and knowledgeable. Dante was our engaging host and Chief Information Officer. A gift from our daughter, this was the second time we've taken this snorkeling & BBQ excursion (first time being 4 years ago when we visited our daughter) We had the same great experience as our first time- in large part because both times, Cap't. ![]()
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