Celebrate World Manta Day With These 10 Tips From Outrigger Maldives Maafushivaru
Saturday 17th of September 2022
Today is World Manta Day commemorated on 17th September of every year. What better way to get into the feels of Manta Day than by immersing yourself with these 10 helping tips? Marine biologist, Lynn Jula Kessler shares us some advice on these gentle friends.
1. When to visit?
Manta rays’ migration patterns are influenced by the monsoons in the Maldives. from December to May, these creatures frequent the western atolls more but travel to the eastern side during June through November. Given the large size of the South Ari Atoll, Manta rays are sighted all year round in Outrigger Maldives Maafushivaru with the highest numbers seen between October and March.
2. Have a read or watch a video
The Manta Trust has many books published about the creatures so have a read into the Guide to Manta and Devil Rays, exploring the Mantas in scientific context with tips on identifying them as well. Or look into the Secret Life of Manta Rays featuring captivating images and details about conservation efforts.
If you are much of a watcher than a reader, check out the Seaspiracy on Netflix centered around the theme of overfishing- biggest threat facing Manta populations.
3. Opting for a resort with a marine biologist
Many resorts in the Maldives pursue their own conservation and sustainability initiatives. Find out first-hand what is done in the conservation forefront by staying with a resort with a marine biologist. At outrigger, the resort has their own programme called OZONE- Outrigger Zone.
4. Do a trial snorkel or scuba dive
If you have never snorkeled before or is a rookie swimmer, it is best to first try it out in a safe environment. Familiarizing with the gear and open ocean, can make you feel at more ease during your manta dive, paving way for a better experience!
5. Be prepared
Group dives need much cooperation so make sure you are always listening to the guide’s instructions. Be ready to hit the waters always!
6. Keep a safe distance
As curious creatures, Manta rays usually approach divers even if the safe distance of 3-4m is kept. During a Manta encounter, it is important to remain calm and not touch the giants. Touching them will scare them away!
7. Photo tip
If you are not familiar with camera settings, it is best to leave it behind. Action cameras like GoPros are much easier to handle and can be rented at the dive centre at least in Outrigger Maafashivaru.
8. Check the gram
Instagram channels like the Manta Trust, Maldivian Manta Ray Project and the OZONE Maafushivaru share frequent updates about Manta rays such as information and insights. That’s a great place to start your Manta journey.
9. What’s up at Outrigger Maafushivaru Today?
At the resort, Manta excursions are underway for guests with briefings and insights provided about the life of Manta rays.
10. Where to learn more?
To get to know more about World Manta Day head to WorldMantaDay.com. The Outrigger OZONE page also provide valuable information about conservation initiatives.