True bucket list experience

Last night I went on a 'bucket list' swim with manta rays - one of the most sensational experiences of a lifetime. I have dived in the presence of the majestic animals years ago, but I have never witnessed anything like this before. Boats gathered offshore at a place where phytoplankton congregate which is the manta's staple food. Each boat places a small pontoon/platform in the water, which has eerie bluelights to attract the phytoplankton. This in turn, attracts the mantas. All we had to do was hang on to the platform, and the mantas came somersaulting around us, exposing their huge mouths within inches of our faces, as they scooped up their dinner. We had several mantas doing this- up to three at a time for over thirty minutes. It was mesmerising!
Thanks for the tip Rachel (Dr Pear) - I was inspired after seeing Russell's video footage on fb.Unfortunately, all I managed to do was get a couple of poor shots of boats with my phone-sigh- 😳.
I did find a couple of great shots on line however. The photos capture some of the grace and majesty of these gentle giants. 💫Read more