My goal was clear: to see manta rays during a half-day snorkeling trip. So, I researched a lot online beforehand to increase my chances. First, the result: I give it five stars! Because in the end, I saw a manta ray as big as a car, which was incredibly stunning!
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 shared experiences mentioning a lower chance of seeing manta rays. Although a private small group costs more (equivalent to chartering a boat), I found the price of this company to be reasonable and acceptable.
2. Choose the earliest slot (7 AM)
The water is clearer, and the fish conditions are better. The meeting point is right by the sea, but the map made it look hard to find. After getting off the road, you have to walk down a small path to the beach. I recommend leaving early to avoid wasting time looking for it. Plus, the signal there is very poor.
3. Chance of seeing manta rays:
According to online information, Manta Point > Manta Bay (note that these are two different locations). However, this was a package tour, and usually, the first stop is Manta Bay. So, before departing, I communicated with the shop on-site, stating that if we didn't see any in the bay, I wanted to go to the more distant Manta Point. The shop said it would cost extra, which was true because its distance is about double, and I also found online that it requires an additional fee. The final negotiation result was an extra TWD 2400 for the boat to take us to the Point. But they warned that even going there doesn't guarantee a sighting. The weather that day wasn't great either, but since we were already there, we decided to go for it! Along the way, the captain diligently searched for any signs of manta rays. If there were none, he'd just drive past. We kept going until we reached the Point before getting into the water. After about 15 minutes in the water, I thought we might be out of luck... then suddenly, it appeared! Its fins swam so gracefully! It was huge! This was my first time seeing a wild manta ray up close, and it was well worth the trip! The foreigners on the other boats excitedly jumped into the water, kicking their fins to get closer and photograph it, even bumping into me. I didn't expect a trampling incident to happen in the sea... The guide also dived down to help take photos and videos.
The second snorkeling spot seemed to be Diamond Beach. The water was very warm, and there were many fish, which I also found great (those who are afraid of cold or sun should wear their own wetsuits or rash guards, as the shop doesn't have any for rent).
Minor drawback: I didn't receive contact from the shop the night before, and their address looked very hard to find. We later asked the hotel to help us call them to confirm the location. Just a small complaint, hoping for improvement.
Summary: If your travel time is limited, you can only do a half-day tour, and your friends are afraid of diving but still want to see manta rays – this long post is for you. This company is a worthwhile option to consider. I personally did everything I could to increase my chances: woke up early, was willing to pay a little extra, and prepared myself mentally (after all, no one can guarantee seeing wild animals). I wish everyone's wishes come true and that you unlock this life experience!