Manta Alley

Manta Alley is a coral reef site formed by a chain of small rocky islets creating narrow channels and coral-covered slopes. It is famous for reef manta rays (Manta alfredi) that gather at cleaning stations around the rocks; divers frequently encounter large mantas in the shallow channels or hovering over the reef, especially during seasonal gatherings. The site also hosts sharks, rays and schooling fish and is widely regarded as one of the most popular dive sites in the region. Typical dives range from about 10 to 30 m depth. Water temperatures tend to be around 20–25 °C and visibility is often good, about 15–20 m, but variable due to plankton that attract the mantas. The site is exposed to tidal currents with moderate to strong currents and surge common, so dives are typically conducted as drift dives. Entry is by boat with a direct drop-off at the mouth of the channel. Currents can be strong and unpredictable and the water is cooler than many nearby sites, so Manta Alley is recommended for experienced or Advanced Open Water divers; manta rays and their habitat are protected, and divers should avoid chasing mantas out of the cleaning stations.