Manta Ray Night Snorkel

If you’re looking for a truly unique adventure while visiting the Big Island of Hawaii, the Manta Ray Night Snorkel offers an unforgettable opportunity to see these majestic creatures swimming just inches from you. This activity has become a favorite among travelers for its blend of natural beauty, gentle wildlife, and expert guidance. While it’s definitely an adventure suited for those comfortable in the water, it promises a chance to witness a spectacle you’ll never forget.

What we particularly like about this tour is how well it balances education and excitement. The guides are praised for their knowledge about manta rays, offering insights into their behavior that deepen the experience. Plus, the stunning Kona sunset from the boat makes for a perfect prelude before slipping into the water. One thing to keep in mind, however, is that seas can sometimes be rough, which might pose challenges for those prone to motion sickness or with limited swimming skills. This tour is best for adventurous adults and older children who love marine life and are eager for a memorable night under the stars.

Key Points

• Guided by knowledgeable crew with excellent reviews
• Guaranteed manta sighting or a future tour voucher
• Combines sunset views with night snorkel adventure
• All equipment provided, including wetsuits and flotation devices
• Suitable for capable swimmers; children need adult supervision
• Tours typically book 20 days in advance, and timing adjusts seasonally

What the Tour Offers: A Step-by-Step Overview

The Manta Ray Night Snorkel begins at the meeting point, Bite Me Sportfishing in Kailua-Kona, where you’ll gather along with a small group (max 30 travelers). From there, the boat ride out into the ocean lasts about 20 minutes, during which you can take in the spectacular scenery of the Kona coast and watch the sunset. The timing of these departures varies throughout the year, aligning with sunset times – whether that’s 5:30 PM in winter or 9 PM in summer. It’s a good idea to confirm your departure time 24 hours ahead.

Once at the manta habitat, the guides will explain what to expect and how to stay safe while in the water. They’ll also share fascinating facts about manta rays, highlighting their peaceful nature and impressive size. We loved the way guides like Joel, Josh, and Captain Rory provide helpful information, making the experience accessible even for first-timers.

The actual snorkeling experience involves floating on the surface, with bright underwater lights attracting microscopic plankton that draws the manta rays close. This creates a surreal scene—a swirling, glowing “manta rave” where these gentle giants glide effortlessly around you. According to reviews, sightings are guaranteed, which adds a reassuring element for first-time snorkelers. If, however, you don’t see a manta, you’ll receive a voucher to come back another day.

What You Can Expect in the Water

Once in the water, the atmosphere is often described as peaceful and almost hypnotic. The mantas are not shy; they often come right up to you, sometimes just inches away. They’re surprisingly gentle, and their massive, wing-like fins make for a mesmerizing sight as they glide through the dark waters. Expect to wear a wetsuit, which is included, along with snorkel gear and flotation devices. If you wear glasses, it’s recommended to switch to contacts since you’ll be using masks.

Many reviewers comment on the unforgettable feeling of being so close to such graceful creatures. Leslie noted the experience was “very cool,” and even during stormy weather, the crew managed to keep spirits high. Several travelers, like Josh, found the encounter “absolutely amazing,” describing how the mantas swam right up to them, creating a feeling of being in the presence of something truly extraordinary.

The guides are skilled at following the mantas’ movements, ensuring everyone gets good viewing opportunities. They also help with camera setups, so you can capture this once-in-a-lifetime moment—though many say the experience is so captivating, words often fall short.

The Sunset and the Scenic Setting

Before slipping into the water, you’ll enjoy Kona’s famed sunset views from the deck of the boat. Watching the sky turn beautiful shades of orange and pink while sipping on a drink (depending on your tour package) adds a special touch to the evening. Many reviews mention how peaceful and scenic this part of the trip is, providing a perfect backdrop for the night ahead.

The boat’s environment makes this more than just a snorkeling trip; it’s a chance to unwind, soak in the scenery, and prepare for a magical experience beneath the stars. Keep in mind the departure times are seasonally adjusted—so it’s worth calling ahead to confirm your specific start time, especially during the longer daylight months.

Who Would Enjoy This Experience?

This tour is a treat for those who enjoy marine life, water adventures, and being in the open sea. While it’s suitable for most adults and older children, it does require good swimming ability and comfort in the water. Children under 5 must provide their own life vests, and all participants should be able to swim. If seasickness is a concern, note that rough waters might make the experience less comfortable, as some reviewers have pointed out.

The tour’s small group size enhances the experience, allowing guides to give individual attention and share their knowledge comfortably. It’s an activity where patience and a sense of adventure are rewarded with encounters that feel both intimate and awe-inspiring.

The Value and Practicalities

At $80 per person, the tour offers a good balance of value given the rarity of the encounter and the comprehensive experience. All necessary equipment is included, meaning you won’t need to worry about bringing or renting gear elsewhere. The guaranteed sighting policy—if you don’t see a manta, you get a voucher—adds to the confidence in the trip’s quality.

Booking typically opens about 20 days in advance, so planning ahead helps ensure you get your preferred date. Remember, cancellations are flexible up to 24 hours before, and weather cancellations are handled with full refunds or rescheduling.

In The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?

This tour excels for those who:

• Are comfortable in the water and can swim confidently
• Appreciate wildlife encounters in a natural setting
• Want to experience Kona’s famous sunset in a unique way
• Value small-group, guided tours with expert staff
• Don’t mind an adventure that can sometimes involve choppy seas

While it’s not suited for very young children or anyone prone to seasickness, for adventurous travelers and marine enthusiasts, the chance to see manta rays so close is priceless. The combination of stunning scenery, educational insights, and the thrill of night snorkeling makes this a memorable part of any Big Island visit.

For anyone wanting to add a touch of magic to their Hawaiian trip, this snorkeling adventure offers not just a peek at gentle giants, but a story you’ll be eager to tell for years.

FAQ

Do I need to know how to swim to participate?
Yes, participants should know how to swim, as the tour requires comfort in the water. If you wear glasses, consider using contacts since you’ll need to wear a snorkel mask.

What equipment is provided?
All snorkel equipment, including wetsuits and flotation devices, are included in the price. This ensures you have what you need for a safe and comfortable experience.

When does the tour depart?
Departure times adjust seasonally, based on sunset. For example, from January to March, it’s around 5:30 PM, while in the summer, it could be as late as 9 PM. Confirm your exact time 24 hours in advance.

What happens if I don’t see a manta ray?
The tour offers a guarantee: if no manta rays are sighted, you’ll receive a voucher for another tour. Many reviewers have spoken about how the guides work hard to find the rays, making that guarantee a reassuring feature.

Is the tour suitable during bad weather?
The tour requires good weather to operate. If weather conditions are poor, it may be canceled, with options for a different date or a full refund.

How many people are on each tour?
The maximum group size is 30 travelers, making for a more intimate experience with guides able to give personalized attention.

In essence, the Manta Ray Night Snorkel is a well-organized, awe-inspiring adventure that combines the natural wonder of Hawaii’s marine life with the scenic beauty of Kona’s coast. It’s an experience that appeals to nature lovers, adventure seekers, and anyone eager for a memorable night under the stars.