Is it safe to swim with a manta ray?

Manta rays pose no danger to humans. They are calm and delicate animals with no aggressive behaviours and are not predatory in nature. These gentle giants are filter feeders, gliding through the ocean on their massive wings feeding on microscopic plankton near the surface of the water.



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The natural predators of manta rays are a few types of sharks, killer whales and false killer whales. Occasionally you may see a manta with the characteristic 'half-moon' shark bite on it's wing. But the real danger to these sea creatures is, as always, humans and their activities.

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It is best to approach mantas slowly from their side allowing the animal to see you while it can maintain a clear path of travel ahead. Never chase after a manta ray. If you stay still they often come back for a closer look at you. Like you and I, mantas appreciate their personal space.

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Every year, approximately 100 million sharks and 5,000 manta rays are killed.

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Giant oceanic manta rays are pretty rare; any diver or snorkelers who gets to witness one is a lucky person. Giant mantas are also known as oceanic manta rays, pelagic manta rays – or by their Latin name, mobula birostris.

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How much do you tip a manta ray snorkel? While it is not expected and always appreciated, it is common to tip a manta ray tour guide between $20 – $40 per snorkeler if they do a great job and up to $100 if they do an outstanding job.

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