By It’s officially Manta Season here in the Maldives. Come on, stop by and enjoy any one of the Manta packages offered by resorts and Guest Houses alike. Take part in this once-in-a-lifetime experience and swim alongside these graceful Gentle Giants as they whip up a feast every day. Here are the best tips for safety while swimming (specifically snorkeling) with Mantas. Watch out for number three.You’d think it’s common sense but you’d be surprised!
1.First, and most importantly, Do NOT touch the Mantas
Touch can massively disrupt behavior, scaring entire schools away, or even damage their mucus barrier. This barrier protects these Giants from infections.
You are not there to cause harm! This is one cardinal rule. Keep your feet, hands and especially fins to yourself.
2.Remain Calm and Collected
At first it may be startling to see a 12-foot creature gliding over you, causing you to panic and run away or even splash around. This will only drive them away. Remain calm and allow the Mantas themselves to know of your presence so they may swim around you.
3.Do NOT chase them
Not that you can catch them. It is more likely that they would swim by you regularly if you let them be. Mantas are curious cuties, and may come nearer to see who it is that has just joined their feeding frenzy
4.Do NOT splash with your fins above the water as approaching
Too much noise can scare the schools away. Approach slowly while maintaining about 5 feet distance and keep at it. Remain slow steady.
5.Horizontal rather than vertical
Once you have arrived and are essentially stationary and looking down at the Mantas, try and float quietly (in a horizontally rather than vertical position)
6.How long are sessions typically?
Sessions last from about 35 to 45 minutes with arrival and immersion in the water. Boats will stop about 10 feet away from the Mantas and lead in with a crew member and floaties in towe.
7.Wear Reef-safe sunscreen
This one is pretty self-explanatory. This is their home, and will continue to be long after we are gone. It is up to us to do everything we can to not destroy the reefs that are home to Mantas
8.What should I wear?
Since the Mantas are feeding on planktons, these little creatures may end up causing some irritation. There is also plenty of Sun in the sunny side of life. We at The Arrival would recommend UV blocking, lightweight and mobile but still covers arms and legs well.
9. BE PREPARED FOR THE EXPERIENCE OF A LIFETIME
It’s just you, and a school of graceful, but curious creatures. Aware of every breath you take, be prepared and open-minded for the very best of yourself that you have to offer.