Manta Adventures invites guests to experience Kona’s vibrant ocean life aboard the Maheli-Heli, one of the area’s newest, cleanest, and safety-focused vessels. From unforgettable sunset manta ray night snorkels to daytime reef adv...
Manta Adventures has built a strong reputation on the Big Island, and the crew is consistently the highlight. Names like Karen, Captain Corey, Captain Brooke, and Christian come up again and again, praised for being knowledgeable, safety-focused, and genuinely passionate about manta rays. First-timers and nervous swimmers especially appreciate how attentive the crew is throughout the experience. The manta ray encounters themselves are described as magical and life-changing by most guests, though a small number of tours have seen limited manta activity, which is worth keeping in mind as wildlife sightings are never fully guaranteed. One reviewer also noted some equipment could use an upgrade. That said, the overwhelming majority of guests leave feeling the experience far exceeded expectations, with many calling it a trip highlight.
This was an incredible experience! Captain Dave and the crew Karen and CJ were fantastic! They explained everything very well and made sure everyone felt safe. We saw many mantas. We had a family of 7 ranging in age from 21-73, 6 people got in the water and one observed from the boat. It is hard to describe how majestic they are, you just have to see for yourself! Truly a magical experience!
Erin Fisher
July 27, 2026
This was an incredible experience! Captain Dave and the crew Karen and CJ were fantastic! They explained everything very well and made sure everyone felt safe. We saw many mantas. We had a family of 7 ranging in age from 21-73, 6 people got in the water and one observed from the boat. It is hard to describe how majestic they are, you just have to see for yourself! Truly a magical experience!
Erin Fisher
July 27, 2026