During this Big Island kayaking and snorkeling adventure, swim up close with some of the world’s most graceful and gentle creatures, and experience the thrill of watching these rays as they literally swim circles around you.
Upon setting out for this 1.5-hour tour, you’ll receive the kayaking and snorkeling equipment at check in and go over some basic safety, before launching out along with your guide in search of the famous rays. Eventually, once you see the surface churning with the flimsy tips of their wings, or see a dark shadow moving towards your kayak in the shape of a massive ray, it’s time to grab your snorkeling gear and prepare for the time of your life.
These manta rays are most active at night and in the hour just before sunset, as they feed on plankton rising towards the surface, which only takes place at night. To bring the rays closer, your guide will use an underwater light to attract the clusters of plankton, which in turn attracts the manta rays as they swim and feed all around you. Depending upon the level of activity and the overall number of mantas, you may end up paddling to a different spot in search of greater numbers. This is one of the great parts of snorkeling from a kayak since it allows you the ability to be flexible.
At the end of the tour, your guide will lead you on the short paddle back to Keauhou Bay.
