Raa Atoll, home of The Standard, Maldives, is just a hop, skip, and speedboat away from the magical manta rays found in the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve of Hanifaru Bay. Between May and October, hundreds of manta rays (and even whale sharks!) gather to take advantage of Hanifaru Bay’s plankton-rich waters, making it one of the best destinations in the world for marine megafauna encounters.

At The Standard, Maldives, you can see the manta rays up close and personal. Hop the speedboat for a 25-30 minute ride and prepare to snorkel alongside some of the world’s most magnificent sea creatures. Whether it’s swimming alongside manta rays or engaging in manta-themed activities at the resort, guests will find that The Standard, Maldives offers an adventure like no other, where meeting your manta mates is just the beginning.

Mantas 101

Fun Fact: Did you know that mantas have the largest brain of any fish species, or that the name “Manta” comes from the Spanish word for “mantle,” referring to their cloak-like appearance? Understanding these oceanic marvels is as much a part of the experience as seeing them in their natural habitat. Despite their massive size—reef manta rays can span up to 400 cm in width and weigh around 700 kg—they are gentle giants, posing no threat to humans and are relying on plankton and small organisms for sustenance. These curious pelagic creatures often swim around snorkelers and divers, making for an awe-inspiring underwater encounter.

The reef manta ray (Mobula alfredi), the star of the show, is one of two manta species, the other being the oceanic manta ray (Mobula birostris). The reef mantas are smaller but no less impressive, with distinct markings on their undersides that allow for individual identification. Found in warm, clear waters near coral reefs, these mantas are known for their graceful swimming and occasional acrobatic displays, including barrel rolls and leaps out of the water.

Swimming with Manta Rays

The Manta Ray Excursion at Hanifaru Bay by the resort’s Water Sports team is run responsibly, providing guests with information on how they can enjoy this unique wildlife experience in a respectful and ethical manner. 

For a responsible manta ray encounter, enter the water quietly, staying at least 10 meters (33 feet) away. Keep your fins below the surface to avoid splashing, and let the manta come to you by maintaining a 3-meter (10-foot) distance. Approach from the side to give them a clear path. Don’t chase or touch the manta—this could disrupt the encounter and may result in fines. If you’re diving, stay low near the seabed and avoid damaging the reef. Always follow local rules and give the manta space to swim freely.

Beyond the Manta Encounter

The manta encounter is only the beginning of the experience at The Standard, Maldives. The resort celebrates these magnificent creatures in style, extending the manta magic beyond the waters. Guests can pick up manta-themed swag from the resort’s shop, while the creative souls can indulge in T-shirt painting at Joos Café. The resort also hosts engaging Manta Nights, where adults can learn more about the Hanifaru Bay UNESCO site, and for the little ones, activities like manta cookie decorating and a manta sandcastle competition add an extra touch of fun to their stay.