Manta rays are gentle giants which are found in the waters surrounding the Maldives, typically growing to about 3.5m in width and recognisable for their triangular wings.
At certain times of year mass gatherings of manta rays and whale sharks take place, a spectacular natural event which is unique to the Maldives. Hanifaru Bay in Baa Atoll is a Marine Protected Area which acts as the world’s largest feeding station, where it’s not uncommon for over one hundred mantas and several whale sharks to feed at the same time.
Plankton levels in the Baa Atoll waters peak between June and October every year, attracting larger numbers of manta rays, whale sharks and other large fish. As manta rays swim close to the surface to feed, snorkelers are able to see these gentle giants up close.
Snorkelling enthusiasts who wish to maximise their chance of viewing manta rays are advised to plan their trip to coincide with the following key viewing dates, when a specialist has determined that mass feeding sessions are likely to occur.
2018 key viewing dates
• June 11 – 15
• June 26 – 30
• July 11 – 15
• July 25 – 29
• August 9 – 13
• August 24 – 28
• September 7 – 11
• September 23 – 27
• October 7 – 11
• October 22– 26
• November 5 –9
• November 21 – 25
The Maldivian Manta Ray Project, the only full time manta ray research project in the Maldives, is based at Four Seasons Landaa Giraavaru but can also arrange excursions for guests staying at other resorts.
Suggested holidays
Please note, excursions to snorkel with manta rays are not included in the prices below.
Four Seasons Landaa Giraavaru
Four Seasons Landaa Giraavaru is an island paradise offering five star luxury accommodation, wonderful restaurants and plenty of activities
The island is home to a Marine Discovery Centre, where a team of marine biologists teach guests about the underwater world of Baa Atoll’s UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve. Guests can encounter a variety of marine creatures, participate in conservation projects and take advantage of the ‘Manta-on-call’ service which lets them know when manta rays are spotted near the resort.
Children can take part in a range of activities including helping marine biologists transplant coral frames, visiting the Fish Lab, learning to snorkel, and interacting with sea cucumbers, starfish and crustaceans.
7 nights from £4160 per person including flights, transfers and bed & breakfast based on two sharing a Beach Bungalow with Pool.
Find out more about holidays to Four Seasons Landaa Giraavaru
Reethi Beach Resort
Reethi Beach is a casual yet elegant resort offering friendly service, excellent cuisine and a relaxing atmosphere. Located not far from Hanifaru Bay, the resort’s dive centre runs snorkelling excursions to view manta rays as well as dives over the house reef.
7 nights from £1105 per person including flights, transfers and bed & breakfast based on two sharing a Reethi Villa.
Find out more about holidays to Reethi Beach Resort
Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu
Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu is a tropical gem where white sand beaches overlook a crystal clear lagoon of unparalleled beauty. Thatched villas are set amid the palm trees or on stilts over the water, facilities include two restaurants, a spa and a watersports centre, while a nearlby uninhabited island offers a true castaway experience. Marine biologists lead excursions to coral reefs where guests can swim alongside turtles, manta rays and tropical fish.
7 nights from £1555 per person including flights, transfers and half board based on two sharing a Beach Villa.
Find out more about holidays to Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu
Soneva Fushi
Soneva Fushi occupies one of the largest islands in the Maldives, offering a unique holiday experienced with an emphasis on understated barefoot luxury. Suites and villas are spread out across the island, where facilities also include outstanding restaurants, an excellent dive centre, a superb spa and an open air cinema. Located just 20 minutes by speedboat from Hanifaru Bay, marine biologists lead snorkelling trips and underwater discovery tours.
7 nights from £3030 per person including flights, transfers and half board based on two sharing a Crusoe Villa.
Find out more about holidays to Soneva Fushi
Sample prices are based on two people sharing the lowest room type in June 2018, including flights and transfers as well as current special offers (as of 5 October 2017). Prices are a guide only, contact us for a tailor made quotation. Conditions apply for all special offers including blackout dates, book by dates and minimum stays. All special offers are valid for new bookings only.
We offer fully bonded and protected holidays, whether booked with flights via our ATOL 5615 or for accommodation only holidays with our ABTA Y5401. This means you can rest assured that your Tropic Breeze holiday is safe and secure.
