InterContinental Maldives offers chance to swim with manta rays on annual retreat

The island resort in the Maldives’ Raa Atoll sits on a lagoon recently discovered to be a feeding ground for young manta rays. Since 2019, InterContinental has been working with the Manta Trust to establish a research centre there, where marine biologists can study the mantas and build knowledge to aid in conservation efforts of this globally-threatened species.

InterContinental Maldives Maamunagau is set to host its third Manta Retreat from 9-12 March during peak manta season when juvenile rays gather in the lagoon a short distance from shore.

The four-day programme, hosted by the Manta Trust’s island-based team, is bookable alongside guest’s stays and includes snorkelling with mantas in the lagoon, coral reef restoration and educational presentations from marine biologists.

At the Manta ID workshop, for instance, guests can aid in the Manta Trust’s research by learning to identify and record young manta rays by their unique belly prints. Participants are also invited to name one of the newly-identified rays.

Alongside snorkelling trips, certified divers have the option to visit an open water ‘cleaning station’ around the island where rays glide in for a cleanse from the resident ‘cleaner fish’.

The retreat will be led by the Manta Trust’s base leader at InterContinental Maldives Meral Hafeez.

“Most of my days are spent out in the water looking for manta rays to record and observe their behaviour to gain vital information relevant for their protection,” said Hafeez.

“No matter how many times I’m lucky enough to encounter these animals, each interaction feels like seeing them for the first time. I look forward to sharing the wonders of Maldivian marine life and manta rays with the participants of this year’s Manta Retreat.”

One-on-one sessions with the marine biologist can be arranged upon request, and the resort also offers a set of sustainably-run excursions that can be booked separately.