• 85–95% manta ray sighting rate at Manta Village, Kona • Return free within 7 days if no mantas seen — space available • Owner Richard Kersten pioneered the large-vessel manta ray snorkel format • Named resident manta rays: Lefty (1979), Big Bertha (1991), Obama Ray, Koie Ray & more • 450+ individually identified manta rays on the Kona Coast — MPRF partner
auhou Bay since 1985 — one of the original operators at this site. Owner Richard Kersten pioneered the large-vessel, large-group manta ray snorkel tour format, opening what had previously been an experience limited to small dive groups. Manta Village is one of the most reliable manta ray encounter sites in the world. Lights attract zooplankton; zooplankton attracts reef manta rays. Through Classical Conditioning over 50+ years, the feeding response is so reliable that Sea Paradise’s sighting rate is 85-95%. Guests float on Sea Paradise’s custom Manta Flotation Device-also designed by Richard Kersten-horizontally above the feeding manta rays. In-water crew guides are present throughout. No diving certification required. The Hoku Nui — Sea Paradise’s 50-foot luxury sailing catamaran, spaciously designed for 49 guests — departs Keauhou Bay at sunset (exact time varies by season). Wetsuit, mask, snorkel, the custom Manta Flotation Device, crew-operated underwater lights, hot cocoa and chocolates included. MANTA GUARANTEE: Return free within 7 days if no mantas seen. Space available, reservation required.
Keauhou Bay finger pier, end of 78-7130 Kaleiopapa Street, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740. Check in 15 minutes before departure. Departs at sunset (varies by season).
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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