DIVE KOMODO with manta rays

Our famous residents awaits you !

Dive with Manta Rays
DIVE WITH MANTA RAYS
The diving experience in Komodo is elevated by the presence of majestic manta rays, making each dive unforgettable. Their graceful movements and curious nature capture the hearts of divers from all over the world.

At Komodo National Park, manta ray sightings are common, particularly around the dive sites Mawan and Karang Makassar, accessible to divers of all levels. These gentle giants are a highlight for underwater explorers and provide an awe-inspiring encounter each time.

In 2017, manta rays were classified under the Mobulid Rays family, specifically the species Mobula Alfredi and Mobula Birostris. Known fondly as Alfredis, these reef mantas can grow wingspans up to 5 meters and are known for their graceful, filter-feeding habits.

A recent study estimated an aggregation of over 1,085 reef manta rays in the waters of Komodo National Park, a testament to the richness of this marine paradise.

MANTA ENCOUNTERS AND SEASONAL HIGHLIGHTS

Manta Encounters and Seasonal Highlights
Manta Ray 1 Manta Ray 2

Manta Encounters and Seasonal Highlights

Manta rays grace the waters of Komodo National Park throughout the year, creating an enchanting spectacle. From October to March, these majestic creatures become particularly abundant, especially at the central locations of the park. During this season, divers can observe mesmerizing cleaning and feeding behaviors, and in February and March, they may witness the captivating sight of manta mating trains.

Between March and October, as water temperatures rise and visibility improves, juvenile manta rays become more visible, particularly in the park’s northern region. This phenomenon is most prominent in July and August. These graceful young mantas are always a joy to witness, adding a magical element to the diving experience.

Our commitment is to provide all divers the opportunity to encounter these amazing creatures. Sites like Mawan and Karang Makassar offer divers of all skill levels and snorkelers accessible encounters with manta rays throughout the year.

MANTA FUN FACTS

Manta Fun Facts
CLEANLINESS AND SOCIAL INTERACTION
Both Mawan and Karang Makassar host vibrant cleaning stations. These stations consist of coral areas or coral bommies inhabited by specific fish species that engage in cleaning manta rays. As manta rays glide in, the fish delicately remove parasites, tend to wounds, and offer a thorough cleaning. Due to their sociable nature, multiple manta rays are often seen at a single cleaning station.
FEEDING RITUALS
Karang Makassar frequently treats us to captivating feeding displays. Manta rays favor feeding near the water’s surface, where plankton concentrations are highest. Operating as filter feeders, they cruise with mouths open, extracting sustenance from the water. They’re often observed using a ‘barrel roll’ technique to maximize feeding efficiency.
INTRIGUING MATING BEHAVIOR
While the mating process itself is brief, lasting less than a minute, we often observe its prelude. To impress a female, a male engages in a ritual, mirroring her movements in intricate loops and swoops. Sometimes, one female attracts multiple suitors, resulting in an impressive display of competitive courtship.