To swim with these giants in the famous bay, only snorkeling is allowed. Divers and bubbles would clearly affect the behavior and feeding in continuous movement of the manta rays. Not forgetting that after a few minutes in the water one realizes that diving would not be the best option to enjoy the amazing show that takes place so close to the surface.

Liveaboards do not freely access the atoll area where the mantas are feeding to avoid disturbing them and avoid the decrease of specimens in the area, in addition, snorkeling guests must pay a fee to contribute to the maintenance of the reserve. Visitors will access the water only after receiving detailed instructions on how to behave at any given time, in limited groups, and under the supervision of a certified local guide.

Although it may seem somehow restrictive, soon after and without any effort, the mantas will end up swimming close, even very close, to anyone who respects their space and their way of feeding, either collectively “in a row” or individually performing loopings without cease.You have to stay calm and observe the route the manta rays make uninterruptedly along the channel. The comings and goings are constant, so even in a short time you will even be able to recognize some individuals with unmistakable marks such as spots or even bites, some of them scarred but others also recent

Although the main restrictions are established for Hanifaru Bay, diving is allowed in other areas of Baa Atoll. So many congregations of individuals feeding in the bay explain the large number of sightings by divers outside the atoll, not only of manta rays but also whale sharks if you are a little lucky. The “official” season in Hanifaru is from May to November, although the largest congregations of mantas usually happen between the months of July and September.