The waters surrounding Kona are filled with numerous marine lives, from Hawaiian green sea turtles to sharks and eels. Owing to such diversity, water sports like snorkeling and scuba diving are quite popular here, both amongst locals and tourists.
Whether you want to explore the brightly colored corals and fish nurseries or swim with the sharks, Kona is undoubtedly the best place to experience the diverse marine ecosystem of the Pacific Ocean. But what truly sets this experience apart is the availability of several manta ray scuba tours in Kona.
Swimming alongside the gigantic ray fishes is indeed a one-time experience that can’t be compared to anything else. But it’s much easier said than done! Diving under the water and swimming alongside the manta rays will require a lot more effort from your end. Owing to this, we have prepared a comprehensive guide for you, explaining a couple of factors about manta ray scuba diving lessons in Kona.
Why is swimming with manta rays a popular activity in Kona?
You might be wondering why most tourists get excited about manta ray scuba in Kona when there are so many other marine lives to explore under the water. Well, truth be told, manta rays are some of the largest members of their family, with their wingspans extending beyond 14 feet in length. They are usually attracted to the plankton, which are present in abundance in the Kona waters. Once you are under the water during the nighttime, you can witness these graceful creatures illuminating a magical blue light, creating a mesmerizing treat for the eyes. Owing to all these reasons, scuba diving for manta rays has become quite popular in this part of the Hawaiian Islands.
What to expect from a manta ray night dive in Kona?
If you have finally decided to go for manta ray scuba in Kona, it’s better to know briefly about the details beforehand.
At least then you can prepare yourself properly so that nothing could cause a hindrance later on.
· For scuba diving, a basic level certification will be required about your expertise in swimming since you will be diving and going under the water. Your chosen dive operator will give you a brief detailing about the safety rules and environmental responsibilities to adhere to.
· Most of the manta ray dive sites can be accessed using a boat from the mainland. The boat ride will take about 20 to 30 minutes depending on the distance. Along the way, you may even spot dolphins and other marine life, which is indeed an endearing sight to watch.
· Once you reach the spot, your dive crew will set up the underwater light to attract the plankton.
These small creatures serve as the bait for manta rays, and soon you will find them swimming to the area near the lights. You can also feed them under proper guidance from your dive crew.
· Since manta rays are graceful creatures, you can swim alongside them and enjoy their marine lives to the fullest. However, ensure not to disturb them or agitate them by any means since that can risk your safety.
Conclusion
With this brief guide on manta ray scuba tours in Kona, it’s clear that opting for this watersport will make your vacation even more exhilarating. All you need to do is choose the best dive operator, familiarize yourself with the underwater gear, and have your certifications ready before the dive.