There are so many companies offering nighttime Manta Ray Snorkeling I had a difficult choice choosing one.
After asking for recommendations and reading some descriptions I chose Sea Quest Hawaii and we were not disappointed.
I wanted a smaller boat with a reasonable number of people. I think our boat had 13 guests.
The boat ride is only 5 minutes. Very welcome when a bit chilled after 40 minutes in the water.
We saw many other companies just operating out of pickup trucks in the parking lot with gear in plastic totes and trash cans.
Sea Quest has an actual store front and a nice covered area with tables and chairs for waiting between check-in and taking the few steps to the boat dock.
This well lit area separate from the dark chaotic parking lot makes all the difference both before and after the dive.
I can’t imagine trying to find the right pickup truck in a dark parking lot - if check in time was after dark.
Our boat of 13 guests had a crew of 4. Captain Brenden, mate/safety watch Stephen, and in water guides Mana and Luca.
Before leaving the shop They fit us with nice clean, dry wetsuits and after a quick safety briefing we were on the way.
The crew was great. Never rushing helping everyone on and off and in and out of the water.
Once in the water we floated hanging on to the light bar and Mana our guide moved us a bit away from the boat to where the Mantas where feeding. She also gave us information about the rays and some of the other fish we saw.
We probably saw 20 manta rays and i counted 7 in view at one time.
But many of the companies go to the same spot and use similar light bars and gear.
What set Sea Quest apart was their facilities and people. I aways felt safe, appreciated and never rushed.
Back at the shop they had hot chocolate, tea and cookies.
We we not rushed while getting out of our wetsuits, during off and enjoying the refreshments.
Great 5 star experience.