Kona Night Manta Ray Snorkel and Cruise Big Island

Manta Rays off the Kona Coast

Manta rays are gentle giants: the reef mantas seen here can have a wingspan of about three to four metres, and they have no stinger and no teeth. They filter plankton from the water with open mouths, flipping and somersaulting through the light. Kona is one of the few places in the world where you can see them regularly at night.

People searching for a manta ray night snorkel in Kona often ask whether it is safe. The animals are harmless, and the crew keeps the group calm and organised. Do not touch the mantas, since they are protected and touching them can harm their protective coat. Looking from your place on the board is enough, as the rays come very close.

How the Night Snorkel Works

After a short safety briefing, you put on snorkelling gear and take a seat on the boat. The cruise travels about 20 to 30 minutes to the manta viewing site, and the sunset or the dark sky is part of the trip. In the water, you hold on to a floating board with lights shining down, which draws the plankton that mantas eat.

The board keeps you afloat and in position, so you do not need to swim hard. It suits people who are comfortable in the water but not strong swimmers, though you should still be confident floating with a snorkel. The crew helps you into the water, and you can climb back on whenever you want. Wear a swimsuit and bring a towel.

The Ride-Along Option

If you would rather stay dry, choose the ride-along option, which is the same cruise and the same viewing without getting into the water. You watch the mantas from the boat as they glide just under the surface, lit by the lights, and your guide explains what they are doing.

This option works well for non-swimmers, children, people who feel cold easily, and anyone who simply prefers the comfort of the deck. Pick it in the booking panel when you book. Snacks, water, juice and ginger ale are included either way, and you see the same show as the snorkellers.

The Kona Coast at Night and Sea Conditions

Departures are in the evening, at 6:00, 7:00 or 8:00 pm depending on the season, so you may leave in the last light and return after dark. The Kona coast is sheltered from the trade winds, so the water is usually calm, and mantas can be seen all year. Summer is the calmest time.

Strong swells in winter sometimes affect the trip, and the crew decides on the day. The offshore breeze can feel cool after sunset, so bring a jacket and a change of clothes. If no mantas are seen on your trip you receive another cruise, and a GoPro can be rented on site, subject to availability.