Done it twice. I got certified in the Big Island in 2009 and was somehow convinced by the dive shop that a night dive with Manta's was a great first fun dive. I was terrified but did it anyway. Let me tell you, when this is your first dive, a lot of the next few years were full of relatively "disappointing" reefs etc. Until I went to Komodo and Socorro etc which knocks even this dive out of the water.
We certified in Maui in '19 and our first 2 dives were a twilight and then night dive on Mala Pier. For me, the first night dive was very tranquil but it too set the bar high.
Yeah, I can imagine. My first OW dive was completely the opposite. It was in a Pennsylvania quarry, in early April, a week after the ice had melted. Water was about 34F. So diving anywhere after that was better. I think it's great for new divers to have the kind of experience you had because they learn early what diving can be. I spent 12 days on a 120 ft. live-aboard, with only 4 divers, in Raja Ampat and that was insane. Spent one entire tank hovering over fire coral while 4 17 ft. mantas swam by and over us only inches away.
Hi James, as far as their behavior being altered by humans - this was researched actually both with mantas and tiger sharks (in the Caribbean). It was found that feeding the pelagics does NOT change their natural migratory patterns. In fact, tiger sharks fed in Florida and the Bahamas actually increased their migration in most instances, so basically, the human feeding dive was like an all-inclusive rest stop for them and only helped. (there's a video of this on youtube somewhere, I don't have the link) The one instance of pelagic behavior being altered that I know of is in Socorro, where the oceanic mantas will seek out divers for their bubbles. Also if you wave at them apparently they come to you (especially the older mantas), because up until 10 years ago, it was legal to 'tickle' them with your hands, and they grew to like the feeling of hands and bubbles scraping parasites off.
I did the Kona snorkel night session this past May. It was life changing. As soon as I got back home, went straight to my local dive shop to become open water certified. I've spent more time in the ocean this summer than ever before. Amazing community. Love my new family. Truly grateful.
😲😲 WOW!! This video literally took my breath away. I was watching on my big screen in the Living Room, and it was magnificent. Actually, brought tears to my eyes. I believe any possible negatives of this type of dive, are FAR outweighed by the benefits to not only Mantas, but the whole of the oceans. Thank you, James, for sharing.
Yeah, James not only has the most outrageous Florida accent I've ever heard, he puts some damn good info out there and brings some important perspectives to the table. Definitely the most benificial dive channel on youtube I've found.
My daughter and I are new divers and only had been in cold water, but we did this “campfire” dive and it was like watching a ballet, so graceful. We had 18 mantas that night! They skimmed the top of my head and floaty hair hundreds of times. So cool. Had to take my husband the next night on the manta snorkel night trip since he doesn’t dive , so that I could be around these amazing mantas one more time! I’d love to see the bigger ones in Socorro.
😎 a most exquisite film James, really beautiful photography... I donot think you could have paid too much... what a lifetime experience.....best wishes from Australia...
James.... I hope to do that dive someday. I am in the same camp as you are as if they (shark dives, manta dives..... ) as a means of conservation, teaching, and education then it is worth it.
We were just here a month ago and did this dive with Kona Honu twice. Unbelievable experience, by far my best diving experience so far. I also encourage any of you to do the black water dive that Kona Honu offers as well, very educational and an amazing experience. Both dives pretty much solidified that I’ll be diving for the rest of my life, seeking out these amazing experiences. Thanks James for sharing this, I’d pay that money all day everyday and twice on Sunday🤙
I planned this trip a few years ago, Covid hit and had to cancel it. I've dove in Hawaii hundreds of times, but never done this one. Can't wait to see it for myself.
This dive was so special. I completed my advanced certification on Oahu in preparation for this dive and it was a great way to celebrate. Glad you enjoyed it as much as me!
I've dove in the Hawaiian Islands a lot, and I did this dive about 8 or 10 years ago. Just like you described, we went down, got negative and kneeled on the bottom. The lights were bright and a good bait ball formed. Got great video so far. I was excited....aanndd no rays showed up! It's nature, no guarantees. They don't dance to our tune. I was slightly disappointed, but it was still a great night dive, no complaints from me. Would I do it again? Damn right!!!
We just done the dive. It's now a 2 tanks dive with JDL. It was my wife's first night dive after she was owd certified 10yrs ago. She enjoyed it so much. We are planning to do it again in the near future. I've 2 videos.
2 years ago my son did this, but as a snorkeler at the surface. He saw the scuba divers down at the bottom and grew quite jealous of their view. Now, two years later he's a scuba instructor. It all started with that manta ray dive in Hawaii.
I am glad you enjoyed it - it looks like a dive of a lifetime - I have been diving off and on for the last 58 years and none were even close to this - my grandson is stationed there on the USS Hawaii, I will tell him about this dive - back in the late 60's and 70's when the Miami Beach Greyhound racing track was there they would light up Government Cut and on the ocean side of Fisher Island - before the building started it was covered with rays - I used to night and day dive the cut and the other side in front of Fisher just to watch the rays - it was fantastic but nothing like this dive here - One time I forgot to turn on the air and due to my negative buoyancy and panic dumped the tank to get back to the surface in about 25-30 foot of water - had to free dive back down to get the tank -
We went to Hawaii for our 15th anniversary and it is because of videos of this dive that we got certified. This was our second ocean dive and first night dive. After diving it we were absolutely hooked on scuba. We went back to Kona a few years ago and added the pelagic magic night dive, also totally worth it.
I have not done the Kona manta dive, but have been fortunate enough to dive with them in Palau, Socorro, and Indonesia. They are phenomenal creatures. When you look into their eyes it is like their intelligence is looking back at you.
That's beautifull! I love those gentle giants! If you remember this dive so well it was worth the money for sure. I guess everybody has a dive experience like that. Mine was my first BLue corner dive in Palau!
James, great video. Such beautiful animals. They look so graceful. I am heading to Hawaii in March, can you give me name of dive shop you used? I am trying to find one to do my dives with while there.
James you should’ve tacked on the black water dive!! I’ve done the manta dive three times now and the black water dive once. The combo is the best two tank dive ever without competition!
Did this last year. Best dive of my life. We got a two tank dive, one at twilight and then the night dive. I had new video lights which brought the Manta Rays to me. They “touched” me , 20 or 30 times and I got to look straight down their “throats”. Most amazing dive of my life, and and I barely moved for an hour.
Last year we did all our dives with Kona Divers and had a great experience. There are several good shops, and I would chose based on where you are staying.
I have a big soft spot for this dive, in 2016 I was in Kona with my girlfriend and as a non diver at the time we did the snorkel version of this. That was it, the following summer I was in the waters back in Vancouver doing my OW. These Mantas are THE REASON I decided to learn to dive. If I can get back to Kona for sure its Night Mantas plus the black water dive what a night that would be ahhh!
Imagine how you'd have felt if you didn't do the dive and put two and two together later 🙈 Such an incredible dive; so many, so big, so close, so graceful. Amazing.
@S M From what I understand it's pretty unusual. Watching a green Moray Eel hunt a small yellow fish inches off of my fin was pretty memorable though. Its not just the mantas that are attracted to the light.
This has been a “Bucket List” dive of mine since I learned of it a year after getting certified. So glad to hear it’s worth the expense, as this would be the main reason for me to trek to the “Big Island”.
I did this last year, and even after hundreds of past dives in Hawaii (mostly Oahu), the first words out of my mouth when we came back to the surface was "THAT, was one of the coolest things I've ever done!" Two big plusses for me... 1. My non-scuba diving wife and three kids (10, 10, and 18 at the time) got to see it all from the surface, above the "campfire", with snorkeling gear. We got to spend the evening together (every bit as beautiful as James describes) and if there's a more transformational experience that can let your kids understand why you love diving and the ocean, and make them want to follow your footsteps into the surf, I don't know what that is. 2. The local dive shops recognize the resource that they have and work together instead of competing for a few divers, they share the location and experience. When I went, there were at least five boats from four different shops all sharing the same location and experience. That alone tells you a lot about the diving community in Kona-Kailua. (BTW, at least one shop offer the Manta Dive as the second dive of an afternoon 2-tank dive) I dove (dived?) with both Jack's and Big Island while I was there, and both were excellent.
I actually just did this last month BUT we got skunked. All the manta rays were south in a harbor that dive boats can't go in but snorkel boats can. So I got skunked but my wife and daughter didn't as they were on a snorkel boat. Now if you're wondering if you get a refund for getting skunked, you don't. The operator I went with gives you the opportunity to go on standby for a future dive and that's good for life. So the rest of the trip I was on standby for three other days to include my other pre-planned dive day. EDIT: After about 15 min if the mantas haven't shown up the dive turns into a night reef dive.
Incredible ! Having limited experience due to timing but most importantly cost, I have less than 2 dozen dives under my belt. However, this includes 1 night dive in Cancun which definitely ranks as the most memorable. No Manta Rays but the difference in sea life that is nocturnal was indescribable. Be safe out there
A lot of the dive tour companies will offer a 2-tank version, where they’ll take you to the same site and dive the reef before sunset (and you might see mantas then too), and then you go on this night dive. It really helps balance out the cost. I’ll also give a quick shout to Kona Diving Company. They’ll spoil you.
Well worth my investment and a majestically out of this world experience!!! I too did Kona with Kona dive shop. Talk about an amazing team who’s number one priority on all my dives was safety and respect for marine life. I’d do it over and over again, especially since two of the rays hit my head…saying “aloha!”
My fiancé and I had gotten OW/nitrox certified in June for her birthday. July we’ve decided to dive Independence Day in a mirky fresh water lake to keep our skills up until her passport came in. Now that it’s in, we’re heading to Cozumel next month, however, I’ve grown obsessed with manta rays and Kona night dive is on my bucket list! I think if I get the opportunity to dive that site before I die, I’d die a happy man.
That was incredible!! We are in Dubai on business in October and are booking a single tank dive at Deep Dive Dubai because why not. It will be by far the most expensive dive I've ever done. I can do like 8 ish dives in Cozumel for the same price.
We dive Horizon at lot also and actually met James in the parking lot. Heard his voice and told my daughter, that’s the guy who’s videos I watch. James gave us some stickers. He’s also featured some of the Horizon instructors on his videos. I would also recommend Conch Republic divers in Tavener.
Done it and I agree, it was awesome. I cannot even remember if it was expensive or not. The Manta's were so alien it felt like an hour or so being on an alien planet!
My wife and i went through Jacks to do that dive. It was 2 tank dive and i honestly cannot remember the price. It was also dives 5&6 right out of our OW cert. we were absolutely awe struck. Such a great dive.
It looks like possibly Jacks diving Locker . I’ve used them the last 2 trips to Hawaii for the manta and regular boat dives. They are a great shop to deal with.
The Manta Dive (or snorkel) and the Pelagic Magic ( or similar) dive are both very much not to be missed Big Island boat dives. Pricy but worth it. Jack’s Diving keeps a Manta log so you can see if they are around in numbers or not.
I’m planning on a 32 year anniversary trip to Hawaii this coming February and doing this kind of dive! Are you able to share the organization you went with?
Standard night dive on a Maldives liveaboard. So many manta that I’m sorry to say I got a bit bored. Make sure you do the black water dive in Dumaguete when you go with Matthias. Now that’s an epic dive.
And I was curious so I googled for the manta ray night dive and it is really expensive :D But I'd say it seems fair with all the effort that goes into it :)
@@_sneer_ I would say "No." When we did it, 15 years ago, the Manta dive was the 5th dive of the day out on the boat. We paid ~$350 per person for the 5 tanks in total, even came with brunch/lunch and invite for drinks after. This was with a small group and booked weeks/months in advance. Even if it was $500 for a single tank dive with Mantas at night it, would be worth it.
Last year Kona dives ran about $180 per person for a two tank trip. The Manta night dive was a little more. Expensive depends on what you’re use to. In the Keys, the same two tank dive is around $80.
Done it twice. I got certified in the Big Island in 2009 and was somehow convinced by the dive shop that a night dive with Manta's was a great first fun dive. I was terrified but did it anyway. Let me tell you, when this is your first dive, a lot of the next few years were full of relatively "disappointing" reefs etc. Until I went to Komodo and Socorro etc which knocks even this dive out of the water.
We certified in Maui in '19 and our first 2 dives were a twilight and then night dive on Mala Pier. For me, the first night dive was very tranquil but it too set the bar high.
Yeah, I can imagine. My first OW dive was completely the opposite. It was in a Pennsylvania quarry, in early April, a week after the ice had melted. Water was about 34F. So diving anywhere after that was better. I think it's great for new divers to have the kind of experience you had because they learn early what diving can be. I spent 12 days on a 120 ft. live-aboard, with only 4 divers, in Raja Ampat and that was insane. Spent one entire tank hovering over fire coral while 4 17 ft. mantas swam by and over us only inches away.
Adding those sites to my list of amazing must do. Thank you for sharing.
Hi James, as far as their behavior being altered by humans - this was researched actually both with mantas and tiger sharks (in the Caribbean). It was found that feeding the pelagics does NOT change their natural migratory patterns. In fact, tiger sharks fed in Florida and the Bahamas actually increased their migration in most instances, so basically, the human feeding dive was like an all-inclusive rest stop for them and only helped. (there's a video of this on youtube somewhere, I don't have the link)
The one instance of pelagic behavior being altered that I know of is in Socorro, where the oceanic mantas will seek out divers for their bubbles. Also if you wave at them apparently they come to you (especially the older mantas), because up until 10 years ago, it was legal to 'tickle' them with your hands, and they grew to like the feeling of hands and bubbles scraping parasites off.
I did the Kona snorkel night session this past May. It was life changing. As soon as I got back home, went straight to my local dive shop to become open water certified. I've spent more time in the ocean this summer than ever before. Amazing community. Love my new family. Truly grateful.
😲😲 WOW!! This video literally took my breath away. I was watching on my big screen in the Living Room, and it was magnificent. Actually, brought tears to my eyes. I believe any possible negatives of this type of dive, are FAR outweighed by the benefits to not only Mantas, but the whole of the oceans.
Thank you, James, for sharing.
Such amazing footage of the manta rays
This channel is the reason I am going to learn to dive
Yeah, James not only has the most outrageous Florida accent I've ever heard, he puts some damn good info out there and brings some important perspectives to the table. Definitely the most benificial dive channel on youtube I've found.
@@savitiusdive2246 🤣 He does sound more like he's from the Bahamas more than Florida.... 😉
Do it. Got certified last April in Miami. You won't regret it.
I got chills watching this. What an amazing experience!
Memories are priceless
Wow…. This is so.. really amazing… never seen the scene like this before.. Tq for sharing
James, totally mesmerised.
My daughter and I are new divers and only had been in cold water, but we did this “campfire” dive and it was like watching a ballet, so graceful. We had 18 mantas that night! They skimmed the top of my head and floaty hair hundreds of times. So cool. Had to take my husband the next night on the manta snorkel night trip since he doesn’t dive , so that I could be around these amazing mantas one more time! I’d love to see the bigger ones in Socorro.
😎 a most exquisite film James, really beautiful photography... I donot think you could have paid too much... what a lifetime experience.....best wishes from Australia...
Glad you enjoyed it
What dive outfit did you use??
Absolutely amazing, this just made the top of my bucket list.. ok, maybe second next to Guadalupe Island...
Something I will definitely have to add to the list. Looks like an amazing experience.
James....
I hope to do that dive someday.
I am in the same camp as you are as if they (shark dives, manta dives..... ) as a means of conservation, teaching, and education then it is worth it.
We were just here a month ago and did this dive with Kona Honu twice. Unbelievable experience, by far my best diving experience so far. I also encourage any of you to do the black water dive that Kona Honu offers as well, very educational and an amazing experience. Both dives pretty much solidified that I’ll be diving for the rest of my life, seeking out these amazing experiences. Thanks James for sharing this, I’d pay that money all day everyday and twice on Sunday🤙
Watched this video a year ago and it inspire me real bad! Did the dive last November and I loved it!! Thank you for sharing this content!! 🤗
I planned this trip a few years ago, Covid hit and had to cancel it. I've dove in Hawaii hundreds of times, but never done this one. Can't wait to see it for myself.
This dive was so special. I completed my advanced certification on Oahu in preparation for this dive and it was a great way to celebrate. Glad you enjoyed it as much as me!
added to bucket list
I've dove in the Hawaiian Islands a lot, and I did this dive about 8 or 10 years ago. Just like you described, we went down, got negative and kneeled on the bottom. The lights were bright and a good bait ball formed. Got great video so far. I was excited....aanndd no rays showed up! It's nature, no guarantees. They don't dance to our tune. I was slightly disappointed, but it was still a great night dive, no complaints from me. Would I do it again? Damn right!!!
We just done the dive. It's now a 2 tanks dive with JDL. It was my wife's first night dive after she was owd certified 10yrs ago. She enjoyed it so much. We are planning to do it again in the near future. I've 2 videos.
Did the same kind of night / manta feeding dive in the Maldives - fantastic experience
This video actually made me a little emotional. So, so beautiful! I must see these graceful creatures one day soon. Thanks for sharing!
Glad you enjoy it!
2 years ago my son did this, but as a snorkeler at the surface. He saw the scuba divers down at the bottom and grew quite jealous of their view. Now, two years later he's a scuba instructor. It all started with that manta ray dive in Hawaii.
Oh I’d pay that price easy , we have mantas here in Brisbane over the summer months and I never get tired of watching them
James,
Just got back from the Manta dive in Kona last weekend. It is still fabulous!
Been there, done it. Amazing dive. Got the specialty card. Would do it again!
The most expensive single dive for me is 250$. Silfra fissure dive in Iceland, between the tecnonic plates.
Would love to know what shop offered the trip. Just added this to bucket list!
Also most every shop offers a version of this. Depends on where you stay, to pick the shop.
Thank you for sharing the footage! It was so beautiful and only makes me more interested in marking that off my bucket list.
Glad you enjoyed it!
I am glad you enjoyed it - it looks like a dive of a lifetime - I have been diving off and on for the last 58 years and none were even close to this -
my grandson is stationed there on the USS Hawaii, I will tell him about this dive - back in the late 60's and 70's when the Miami Beach Greyhound racing track was there they would light up Government Cut and on the ocean side of Fisher Island - before the building started it was covered with rays - I used to night and day dive the cut and the other side in front of Fisher just to watch the rays - it was fantastic but nothing like this dive here - One time I forgot to turn on the air and due to my negative buoyancy and panic dumped the tank to get back to the surface in about 25-30 foot of water - had to free dive back down to get the tank -
Thanks James!
Inspirational? Absolutely YES! Thank you Jamesy.
Absolutely wonderful
We went to Hawaii for our 15th anniversary and it is because of videos of this dive that we got certified. This was our second ocean dive and first night dive. After diving it we were absolutely hooked on scuba. We went back to Kona a few years ago and added the pelagic magic night dive, also totally worth it.
I have not done the Kona manta dive, but have been fortunate enough to dive with them in Palau, Socorro, and Indonesia. They are phenomenal creatures. When you look into their eyes it is like their intelligence is looking back at you.
That's beautifull! I love those gentle giants! If you remember this dive so well it was worth the money for sure. I guess everybody has a dive experience like that. Mine was my first BLue corner dive in Palau!
I was not prepared for this... Wow. I'll look into doing it then I guess.
Haha always good to see Jack’s on TH-cam but umm Pelagic Magic!!! That’s THEE night dive on that island.
James, great video. Such beautiful animals. They look so graceful. I am heading to Hawaii in March, can you give me name of dive shop you used? I am trying to find one to do my dives with while there.
Jacks Dive Locker
Great story and fantastic footage. Thanks for posting.
Our pleasure! Dive safe.
James you should’ve tacked on the black water dive!! I’ve done the manta dive three times now and the black water dive once. The combo is the best two tank dive ever without competition!
Did this last year. Best dive of my life. We got a two tank dive, one at twilight and then the night dive. I had new video lights which brought the Manta Rays to me. They “touched” me , 20 or 30 times and I got to look straight down their “throats”. Most amazing dive of my life, and and I barely moved for an hour.
Sounds Like A Beautiful Dive James, It’s On My List 🌴🌅🌊 Safe Diving
Thanks for your support! Dive safe.
Breathtaking!
Absolutely agree James. My wife and I were doing that exact dive also 5 years ago!
They say you can’t buy happiness but you can buy a dive with manta rays :)
Dating myself here… I did that dive and my evidence in on 35mm film… mind blowing, the most memorable dive I’ve ever done.
Definitely the best night dive I’ve done, looking forward to doing it again!
How true regarding parks in the US. I was very impressed! Amazing dive too 😄
It really is! Dive Safe.
James. I’ve heard about this dive for years now. This is a bucket list dive for me. Will be looking at going in the near future.
Funny timing I'm planning this dive right now. Would love to find out the shop you went through and also any suggestions for other dives around Kona.
Last year we did all our dives with Kona Divers and had a great experience. There are several good shops, and I would chose based on where you are staying.
This and the blackwater dive are two of my favorite dives ever!
Thank for your support! Dive safe.
I love night diving, but that looked fabulous. Thank you.
It's a great Dive. If ever back, look up Jacks Dive Locker, 2 Tank dive for this. One Pre dusk and the second the Manta Dive
Hi James, your videos are always great for a new diver, only 43 openwater dives. But this was utterly fantastic. Please keep up the great work.
Thanks, will do! Dive safe.
I have a big soft spot for this dive, in 2016 I was in Kona with my girlfriend and as a non diver at the time we did the snorkel version of this. That was it, the following summer I was in the waters back in Vancouver doing my OW. These Mantas are THE REASON I decided to learn to dive. If I can get back to Kona for sure its Night Mantas plus the black water dive what a night that would be ahhh!
Am I the only who breaks out in a jig every time Sir James intro plays!
Beyond Peaceful True Serenity!
in my bucket list now I was with my daughter last December diving Maui and Oahu the Big Island sounds like a next time stop to me
"Ladies and gentlemen, My name is James, always fantastic to see all of your smiling faces"
I was actually smiling! LOL
"I make videos to make YOU a better diver" .... doesn't answer any questions in comments lol. Make your next dive on the subscribe button. ;)
Yeah! Thanks for your support! Dive safe.
Imagine how you'd have felt if you didn't do the dive and put two and two together later 🙈
Such an incredible dive; so many, so big, so close, so graceful. Amazing.
Did this dive many years ago. Got skunked with zero mantas showing up but still amazing and one of the most memorable dives I've ever done.
@S M From what I understand it's pretty unusual. Watching a green Moray Eel hunt a small yellow fish inches off of my fin was pretty memorable though. Its not just the mantas that are attracted to the light.
Outstanding!!
Thank you! Cheers!
That is amazing!
We did the swim with the Mantas, but from the surface and snorkels. Whether from 50 feet, or from the surface, it is the most amazing experience!
I live in hawaii and and confirm the epicness
This has been a “Bucket List” dive of mine since I learned of it a year after getting certified. So glad to hear it’s worth the expense, as this would be the main reason for me to trek to the “Big Island”.
Thanks for sharing! Dive safe.
I did this last year, and even after hundreds of past dives in Hawaii (mostly Oahu), the first words out of my mouth when we came back to the surface was "THAT, was one of the coolest things I've ever done!"
Two big plusses for me...
1. My non-scuba diving wife and three kids (10, 10, and 18 at the time) got to see it all from the surface, above the "campfire", with snorkeling gear. We got to spend the evening together (every bit as beautiful as James describes) and if there's a more transformational experience that can let your kids understand why you love diving and the ocean, and make them want to follow your footsteps into the surf, I don't know what that is.
2. The local dive shops recognize the resource that they have and work together instead of competing for a few divers, they share the location and experience. When I went, there were at least five boats from four different shops all sharing the same location and experience. That alone tells you a lot about the diving community in Kona-Kailua. (BTW, at least one shop offer the Manta Dive as the second dive of an afternoon 2-tank dive) I dove (dived?) with both Jack's and Big Island while I was there, and both were excellent.
Beautiful
I actually just did this last month BUT we got skunked. All the manta rays were south in a harbor that dive boats can't go in but snorkel boats can. So I got skunked but my wife and daughter didn't as they were on a snorkel boat. Now if you're wondering if you get a refund for getting skunked, you don't. The operator I went with gives you the opportunity to go on standby for a future dive and that's good for life. So the rest of the trip I was on standby for three other days to include my other pre-planned dive day.
EDIT: After about 15 min if the mantas haven't shown up the dive turns into a night reef dive.
Incredible ! Having limited experience due to timing but most importantly cost, I have less than 2 dozen dives under my belt. However, this includes 1 night dive in Cancun which definitely ranks as the most memorable. No Manta Rays but the difference in sea life that is nocturnal was indescribable. Be safe out there
A lot of the dive tour companies will offer a 2-tank version, where they’ll take you to the same site and dive the reef before sunset (and you might see mantas then too), and then you go on this night dive. It really helps balance out the cost. I’ll also give a quick shout to Kona Diving Company. They’ll spoil you.
Well worth my investment and a majestically out of this world experience!!! I too did Kona with Kona dive shop. Talk about an amazing team who’s number one priority on all my dives was safety and respect for marine life. I’d do it over and over again, especially since two of the rays hit my head…saying “aloha!”
Wow.... OK yep. That's money well spent right there. Thanks... now I have to book a trip to Hawai'i all the way from Europe, damn you! :D
Loved it 👍
Thank for your support!
That's a lot better vis than anywhere I've seen Mantas
Just did this dive in April! It was way worth it and definitely recommend going with Jack’s Diving Locker.
My fiancé and I had gotten OW/nitrox certified in June for her birthday. July we’ve decided to dive Independence Day in a mirky fresh water lake to keep our skills up until her passport came in. Now that it’s in, we’re heading to Cozumel next month, however, I’ve grown obsessed with manta rays and Kona night dive is on my bucket list! I think if I get the opportunity to dive that site before I die, I’d die a happy man.
Seriously so amazing!!! Took my wife and two teenage sons and need to go back with my daughter someday now that she’s certified.
That was incredible!! We are in Dubai on business in October and are booking a single tank dive at Deep Dive Dubai because why not. It will be by far the most expensive dive I've ever done. I can do like 8 ish dives in Cozumel for the same price.
Hey James, do you have a list of best dive spots to check out in the Miami area, or recommend dive shops?
I dive with Horizon Divers in Key Largo all the time. Highly recommended.
We dive Horizon at lot also and actually met James in the parking lot. Heard his voice and told my daughter, that’s the guy who’s videos I watch. James gave us some stickers. He’s also featured some of the Horizon instructors on his videos. I would also recommend Conch Republic divers in Tavener.
James, how deep was the dive?
25ft/8m max!
Done it and I agree, it was awesome. I cannot even remember if it was expensive or not. The Manta's were so alien it felt like an hour or so being on an alien planet!
My wife and i went through Jacks to do that dive. It was 2 tank dive and i honestly cannot remember the price. It was also dives 5&6 right out of our OW cert. we were absolutely awe struck. Such a great dive.
Whats the name of the dive center
It looks like possibly Jacks diving Locker . I’ve used them the last 2 trips to Hawaii for the manta and regular boat dives. They are a great shop to deal with.
Correct.
Socorro island amazing giant manta action
The Manta Dive (or snorkel) and the Pelagic Magic ( or similar) dive are both very much not to be missed Big Island boat dives. Pricy but worth it. Jack’s Diving keeps a Manta log so you can see if they are around in numbers or not.
I’m convinced I would get quite emotional if I ever got the chance to do this dive. This is how I imagine heaven!
Now this is a night dive I would sign up to do!
I’m planning on a 32 year anniversary trip to Hawaii this coming February and doing this kind of dive! Are you able to share the organization you went with?
Kona Honu all the way, they run a tight ship and are very friendly.
I went with Jacks Dive Locker. Tell them I sent you!
We just did the Manta Dive in Kona this past week. SO WORTH IT!!!
Thanks for sharing! Dive safe.
Amazing
Thanks! Dive safe.
Standard night dive on a Maldives liveaboard. So many manta that I’m sorry to say I got a bit bored. Make sure you do the black water dive in Dumaguete when you go with Matthias. Now that’s an epic dive.
I'd love to watch manta rays from that close.
I even wear a bracelet with a silver manta ray every day :D
And I was curious so I googled for the manta ray night dive and it is really expensive :D
But I'd say it seems fair with all the effort that goes into it :)
The cost is an average about 150 to 200 bucks depending on what gear you need
Sounds about right.
And that is expensive?
@@_sneer_ no
@@_sneer_ I would say "No."
When we did it, 15 years ago, the Manta dive was the 5th dive of the day out on the boat. We paid ~$350 per person for the 5 tanks in total, even came with brunch/lunch and invite for drinks after. This was with a small group and booked weeks/months in advance.
Even if it was $500 for a single tank dive with Mantas at night it, would be worth it.
Last year Kona dives ran about $180 per person for a two tank trip. The Manta night dive was a little more. Expensive depends on what you’re use to. In the Keys, the same two tank dive is around $80.
Hey James, wondering, did you work for a "Kraken" dive outfit in St. Maarteen? I believe we have dove together before.
That was me!
@@DiversReady thought so. Hey, BTW, did you make a Compass video or thought about it? If you did, maybe I missed it.
"The wide-eyed smile on my wife's face" is why I dive.
Incredible footage, thank you for sharing this experience with us!!