My goal was clear: to see manta rays on a half-day snorkeling trip. So, before the trip, I researched a lot online to increase my chances. Let me start with the result: I give it a five-star rating! Because I finally saw a manta ray as big as a car – it was so shocking!
Experience:
Here are the key points I considered:
1. Private small group, high flexibility
I didn't choose a large group tour because I saw many posts mentioning a lower chance of seeing mantas. A private small group is more expensive (equivalent to chartering a boat), but I thought this company's price was reasonable and acceptable.
2. Choose the earliest time slot (7:00 AM)
The water is clearer, and the fish are more abundant. The meeting point is right on the beach, but the map makes it look hard to find. After getting off the road, you have to walk along a small path to the beach. It's recommended to leave early to avoid wasting time finding the way. The signal there is also very poor.
3. Chance of seeing manta rays:
According to online information, Manta Point > Manta Bay (note that they are different spots). However, this is a package tour, and the first spot is usually Manta Bay. So, before departure, I communicated with the shop on-site, stating that if I didn't see anything in the Bay, I wanted to go to the farther Manta Point. The shop said it would cost extra, which makes sense because the distance is about twice as far. I also found online that it costs extra. The final negotiated price was an additional TWD 2400, and the boat could take us to the Point. However, they warned that even if we went, there was no guarantee of seeing anything. The weather that day wasn't great either, but we came all the way here, so let's go for it! Along the way, the captain was diligently looking for traces of manta rays. If there weren't any, we kept going, and then finally arrived at the Point before getting in the water. After about 15 minutes in the water, I thought maybe I wasn't meant to see them... suddenly, it appeared!! Its wings were swimming so cutely! So huge! This was my first time seeing a wild manta ray up close – totally worth it! Other foreigners on the boat jumped into the water very excitedly, kicking their fins to get closer to take pictures, and even bumping into me. I didn't expect a stampede to happen in the sea... The guide also dove down to help take pictures and videos.
The second dive spot seemed to be Diamond Beach. The water was warm, and there were many fish. I thought it was great too (those who are afraid of the cold or sun should wear a wetsuit or rash guard; the shop doesn't have any to rent).
Small drawback: I didn't receive any contact from the shop the night before, and the address seemed difficult to find. We later asked the hotel to help us call them to confirm the location. Just a small complaint, I hope they can improve this.
Summary: If you have limited travel time and only have a half-day tour, and your friends are afraid of diving but you still want to see manta rays – this long post is for you. This company is a worthy option to consider. I also did everything I could to increase the chances: wake up early, willing to pay a little extra, and be mentally prepared (after all, no one can guarantee wild animals). I wish everyone gets what they want and unlocks a new life experience!