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Manta ray gliding under the lights

Manta Ray Night Snorkel

Kona's most popular tour

Lifeguard-certified guides take you out on Orca. Hold on to our lit snorkel board for about 30 minutes while mantas loop and somersault beneath you.

  • 2 hours
  • Ages 5+
  • Gear & wetsuit included
  • Swimmers only
Up to
$199
Length
2 hours
Ages
5+

Swimmers only. Everyone must swim 50 yards without flotation and snorkel at an intermediate level.

Check availability

Refundable tickets: full refund up to 48 hours before.

Prices vary with demand. Plus tax and fees. Learn how to get the best price. Wildlife often appears, but isn't guaranteed.

What happens on the night

Your trip starts at Honokohau Small Boat Harbor. The crew briefs you on manta biology and safety, then fits you with a wetsuit, mask and snorkel. The ride to the manta site takes 20 to 40 minutes, depending on where the mantas are showing up best that night.

At the site the crew puts our light board in the water. Its 60,000 lumens, about as much light as 200 flashlights, draw plankton up from the reef, and the mantas follow them in. You float on the surface holding the board for about 30 minutes while they feed, loop and somersault, often inches below you.

The boat

Orca is a 27.8-foot rigid-hull inflatable and a retired Navy SEAL boat, with twin Yamaha 200 outboards that get us down the coast quickly.

Manta Guarantee

Mantas show up more than 80% of the time. If you're unlucky, you can come back on another night for free on a standby basis. The guarantee doesn't expire and isn't transferable.

Before you book

More answers on the Manta FAQ's page.

Do I have to know how to swim?

Yes. You should be able to swim 50 yards without additional flotation and consider yourself an intermediate snorkeler. A life vest is not a replacement for swimming skills; non-swimmers can't join.

Need to practise first? Join a daytime snorkel to dial in your skills.

Who can't join the snorkel?

Children under 5, pregnant guests, anyone with recurring back, neck or shoulder problems, and anyone whose injuries limit their mobility. You lie face-down with your arms out for 30 to 40 minutes and need to climb a ladder unassisted.

It isn't recommended for heart conditions, high blood pressure, severe asthma or right after a long-haul flight. Everyone needs to understand the safety briefing in English. Full-face masks aren't permitted.

Other ways to see the mantas