The first thing I want to say about Sea Quest is that it is a place of genuine integrity. They demonstrate care for the animals and the environment, and there are no attempts to up-sell you. They have a gift shop, but if you do the later nighttime snorkel, it will be closed by the time you’re back to shore.
Since manta rays feed 20 hours/day, the chances of seeing at least a few are very good. This is not like whale-watching, where you’re just as likely to see nothing as something. The entire operation is a sight to behold, whether you’re in the water or observing from the Sheraton.
Essentially, light attracts plankton, and plankton attract manta rays. These large and graceful creatures sweep through the water, scooping up plankton. When the water column is full of plankton, they will sometimes do a somersault and make a second pass through it to get more food. When they do this, you can see their distinct markings. They also come very close to the surface—sometimes close underneath to brush against you as you lay on the surface! Manta rays are also curious, intelligent creatures, so they will investigate their spectators!
With no teeth, stingers, barbs, etc, manta rays are no threat to humans, so relax and enjoy being up
close and personal with these “gentle giants.”
When your snorkel ends, you’ll have the chance for hot chocolate and a snack. Hot chocolate?! In Hawai’i?! In July?!
Yes, indeed, and it really hit the spot!
All-in-all, Sea Quest offers great professionalism and hospitality, not to mention an incredible brush with nature’s majestic manta ray. Cannot recommend highly enough!