This dive site, Manta Bay, despite its name, is not a sheltered cove but an exposed stretch of ocean frequently visited by majestic manta rays. Located near dramatic high cliffs, it serves as a renowned cleaning and feeding station for these magnificent creatures. There is no specific underwater navigation mentioned, but divers prepare for boat drops into potentially choppy waters, with the focus on spotting mantas.
The primary draw to Manta Bay is, unequivocally, the manta ray. Divers can anticipate encounters with these large pelagics, often visible even before entering the water. While manta rays are the stars, the site also hosts various reef fish common to the Indonesian waters, contributing to the general marine ecosystem, though specific coral types or macro life are not the focus here.
The optimal time to visit Manta Bay is when surface conditions are favorable, as rough waves can make boat access unsafe. Divers are advised to be gear-ready for quick entries to maximize chances of interacting with mantas. Both snorkelers and freedivers will find this shallow site suitable for observing the rays, but all visitors should be comfortable with potential surface chop and boat traffic.
