Rare Aquatic Adventure with Majestic Mantas
Lying flat on the surface of the Pacific Ocean, I wait for nature’s show to begin. Nearby, bubbles ascend from scuba divers exploring the reef—a soft crescendo of effervescence.
The first manta ray emerges from behind, rising from the dark waters below. Its 12-foot wingspan dwarfs me as it glides mere inches away—so close that I could stick out my tongue and lick it, which our guides specifically asked us not to do during the pre-tour briefing.
Soon, more of these gentle giants are drawn toward our powerful underwater lights. They aren’t chasing the lights themselves but what they illuminate: microscopic zooplankton, their main food source.
I squeal with delight as a squadron of mantas gathers around us to perform a graceful, seemingly synchronized dance.
Their wings flap, propelling them upward. Just before they reach the surface, they arch backward with mouths open wide to maximize their catch.
For more information, read 10 Fascinating Facts About Manta Rays in Hawaiʻi
Author summary: Explore majestic mantas in Hawaii.
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