Manta Rays are cool animals!

You should put “swimming with the Manta Rays” on your bucket list, and start to learn diving and/or snorkelling.

Belonging to the genus Manta, these huge and graceful creatures is then further divided into two: the larger Manta Birostris reaching 7 metres (23 ft) in width, and the smaller Manta Alfredi which measures around 5.5 metres (18 ft 1 in) at most.

There was originally another variant of the beast called Manta Hynei, which have sadly extinct at this point.

Classified among the relatives of Stingrays, both Mantas are easily recognized from their triangular pectoral fins, horn-shaped cephalic fins, and large, forward-facing mouths.

Exclusively found in warm subtropical and tropical waters, these vulnerable-listed (by the International Union for Conservation of Nature) dwell in the deeper seas as they get more and more threats closer to the shores.

If you’re currently in Bali, now is the best opportunity to check the item out of your bucket list.

As known for the majority of divers and underwater life enthusiasts, the Bali waters is home for these gentle giants. Look up for Manta Bay dive tours if you want a more detailed articles about how much a trip costs, but we will give you some basic information as well.

Located just off Nusa Penida Island, this particular spot is reachable by taking a boat from Sanur bay to Nusa Penida.

Taking not more than half an hour for the trip, you can also take a tour on its neighboring island, Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Ceningan, though we personally think there are not much to be done on land as there are under the clear water.

When you get to the island, your dive tour guide will bring you to the famous Manta Bay and look for a sighting of the beasts before telling you to jump into the water.

You can find so many tour agents providing the trip on the internet, or, if you’re not a believer of the webs, there are also mini tourist stands along the streets of famous tourist spots like Kuta, Sanur and Ubud for you to ask around and make tour appointments at.

Most of these tourist services include free shuttle between your hotel and Sanur Bay in their packages, along with the boat tickets, snacks, and diving gears, though we still think it would be better if you bring your own for safety and hygienic reasons.

When you finally get to Manta Bay, be ready for some exciting experience!

As it is somewhat nerve-wrecking having some 5 meters creatures swimming right at your direction before changing their ways, a game these beautiful beasts seem to like playing with their audience.

Bear in mind that Bali waters are at its more dangerous side at this time of year due to the Australian winter, so be sure to check if the water is safe when you plan for the trip, wear all the safety gears, and listen to your guides.

All in all, we really suggest you to try this at least once in your lifetime, as it may become a nice, gentle reminder for us to stay humble.

Well, who wouldn’t feel small when facing a giant, after all? So, what do you say? Ready for the Mantas? So do us. See you at Manta Bay!