Maldives Manta Ray Extravaganza
Maldives Manta Ray Extravaganza
Photo: Image by the Manta Trust
Photo: Image by the Manta Trust
Photo: Image by the Manta Trust
Photo: Image by the Manta Trust
Photo: Image by the Manta Trust
Diving Itinerary
Join us for an incredible adventure exploring the northern atolls and immersing yourself amongst the manta rays of Hanifaru Bay, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. An expert from the Manta Trust charity will be on board leading our exclusive group trip to the Maldives for a manta ray extravaganza! Starting and ending in Malé, this extended liveaboard safari includes plenty of diving time around the Baa, Raa and Lhaviyani atolls, but the highlight is spending time snorkelling with manta rays in Hanifaru Bay during the annual aggregation.
The trip is timed to take place when numbers of mantas and feeding activity are at their peak. In addition to mantas, we can also expect encounters with whale sharks, green and hawksbill turtles, Napoleon wrasse, reef fish and critters, with plenty of reefs and overhangs to explore too.
You will be encouraged to get involved as citizen scientists by uploading images to IDtheManta, an online database created to aid the research and conservation of manta rays throughout the world.
Please note snorkelling in Hanifaru Bay carries a small local charge.
12 days from £3,895
Send Enquiry Speak to an expert. Call 01353 659999
- Holiday type Group Tour
- Departure 19 September 2026
- Tour Leader Manta Trust
- Recommended Dive Experience 30
- When to Go Sep
- Group Size 28 guests
Itinerary Highlights
- Extended liveaboard itinerary including manta aggregation at Hanifaru Bay
- Timed for optimum manta ray encounters with possible whale shark sightings
- Includes diving on Baa, Raa and Llhaviyani atolls
- Expert talks from a Manta Trust expert
- Buddy up with like-minded enthusiasts
Itinerary Details
We stay on board the Seascape liveaboard, a stunning and modern Maldivian vessel. Cabins are located on the upper and lower decks. All feature air-conditioning and an en-suite bathroom. Both double and twin bed configuration are available. There's plenty of space and places to relax on board.
Whilst in the northern atolls we enjoy 2-3 dives a day where we can photograph the underwater life of these seldom visited atolls. In the evenings, your Manta Trust expert will host presentations on the ecology, behaviour and conservation of the reef manta rays found in the Maldives.
“ Snorkelling with over 50 manta rays in Hanifaru was an absolutely magical experience and a memory that will last a lifetime. I really liked the variety of diving and snorkeling to see reefs and mantas, as well as sharks, turtles, rays and lots of other marine life. I particularly liked having a Manta Trust expert on board as she gave us so much information and was really enthusiastic and engaging. ”
Faye W, September 2024
Related Liveaboards
Enquire about Maldives Manta Ray Extravaganza
Speak to an expert. Call 01353 659999 Send Enquiry