By: Nicole Troy
Hawaii is undeniably stunning and full of natural wonder, beautiful culture, adventure and relaxation. I was lucky enough to visit in August of 2022, visiting Big Island, Maui, and Oahu, each with their own distinct landscapes.
On the Big Island’s Kona Coast my partner and I had a truly mystifying experience, swimming with the Giant Manta Rays. Kona is one of the few places in the world where swimming with the Giant Manta Rays is made possible to tourists and divers. Therefore, this experience was truly a bucket list adventure and one I would highly recommend to anyone looking for a truly unique opportunity in nature.
In Hawaiian the name of the manta-hahalu-can be interpreted as “two breathes.” These gentle giants are rather peaceful and resemble dancers as they seemingly fly across the sea. Giant Manta Rays have wingspans that can reach as long as 25 feet and can even weigh as much as 3,000 pounds. Although their size can certainly be intimidating, they are filter feeders and eat the smallest prey and have no stingers. Rays are also highly intelligent and are one of the only fish species in the world to demonstrate self awareness on a mirror test. Their greatness in size, gentle nature, and intellect make them truly unique and special.
Under the stars, we set out on an adventure via boat to the coast where hundreds of Giant Manta Rays come out in the evening to feed on plankton. After disembarking the vessel, all of the participants were guided to a float illuminated with light that would attract the plankton closer to the surface. Then, we waited in stillness for the very first sighting of these truly magnificent ocean creatures. It took my breath away when the first Manta Ray approached, swimming elegantly underneath all of us, swimming and swooping to feed and then disappear in the darkness. The entire experience truly had the ‘wow” factor and really makes you appreciate our magnificent planet.
With inspiration in sustainability,
Nicole Troy
WEGSS Founder & Team Member
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