Manta Conservation Initiative Announces ‘Hot Dates’ for Epic Manta Ray Encounters in the Maldives
The Manta Conservation Initiative, based at the Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Landaa Giraavaru, is preparing for an extraordinary underwater event. The program has released ‘hot dates,’ which are prime times for witnessing the largest known gathering of manta rays globally, close to the resort.
From May through November, the Baa Atoll UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in the Maldives becomes a hotspot for reef manta rays attracted by the area’s nutrient-rich currents. This phenomenon creates a stunning display of marine grace. For two decades, guests at Landaa Giraavaru have had the unique opportunity to observe these marine creatures up close due to the resort’s pioneering conservation efforts.
In the last manta season, the Manta Conservation Initiative recorded an encouraging increase to 6,691 sightings from 2022’s 6,083. Hanifaru Bay, famed for its large manta ray aggregations, accounted for 82% of these sightings. This season saw the identification of 225 new mantas, a significant increase from the previous year’s 176, solidifying the Maldives’ reputation as the home of the largest reef manta ray population on earth.
Among the memorable moments was the sighting of three oceanic manta rays, the largest type of ray, which can reach up to seven meters across and weigh about 2,000 kilograms. These encounters are rare in the Maldives, making them particularly special. The highlight was the re-sighting of Hassandhari, a large male oceanic manta, during a dynamic feeding session among approximately 50 reef mantas.
A noteworthy observation in 2023 was the first sighting of a juvenile manta in Reethi Lagoon, just off Landaa Giraavaru. This young manta displayed curious behavior and has been sighted multiple times since, indicating it may become a regular visitor. The season also set a record with 26 whale shark sightings, underscoring the region’s rich marine biodiversity.
In 2023, the program officially transitioned into a non-governmental organization, now known as the Maldives Manta Conservation Programme, emphasizing its ongoing commitment to manta ray conservation globally.
Landaa Giraavaru continues to offer unique experiences to interact with mantas, including the Manta-on-Call service, which alerts guests to nearby manta sightings for immediate observation. The resort also offers personalized manta-spotting tours and educational programs for teens interested in marine biology. The Marine Discovery Centre now features a life-size Hologram Room, offering an innovative way to ‘swim’ with mantas without entering the water.
The program has announced specific dates in 2024 when the likelihood of encountering mantas is highest, providing guests with optimized opportunities for these majestic marine encounters.
