Bucket List Inspiration: Diving with Mantas in the Maldives

I’m not an overly experienced diver, but I have been lucky enough to complete more than 30 dives in some of the most beautiful locations in the world. I earned my SSI Open Water Diver certification in Thailand, and I received my PADI Advanced Open Water Diver certification in the Red Sea in Egypt, which are both amazing places to dive; however, my absolute favorite-top-ultimate diving experience was spending 45 minutes with manta rays in the Maldives. I was cruising the North Ari Atoll on a liveaboard when we stopped at Dhon Kalo Thila, known locally as the “manta cleaning station,” for an epic afternoon dive. The visibility was less than 10 meters due to the high concentration of plankton–which is fantastic, because that is what manta rays love to feed on! The current was very strong as we descended 20 meters to the bottom and settled on the seabed to spend some time with these pelagic giants. I was stunned by their immense size and wing span as some came within brushing distance of me. There were 14 manta rays in total, swimming strongly against the current with mouths open wide to sift plankton, and being treated to the cleaning treatment of resident remoras. It was so humbling and awe inspiring to witness the majesty of these creatures in their element. I know my words cannot do them justice, so here are some pictures! Do you want to go diving with these gentle giants? Thanks for reading! 🙂