Manta Ray, WESTERN AUSTRALIA
Airing Date: Aug 8th, 2005
The North West Cape of Western Australia covers a huge area with the Ningaloo Reef stretching 260km from Bundegi Beach near Exmouth for 260km along the West Coast to Amherst Point south of Coral Bay. The area is a protected marine park.
Exmouth is a small town of approximately 2,500 people and is situated 1270km north of Perth.
Manta rays can be seen along the reef near Exmouth from May to November, feeding on the plankton rich water. They are around all year in Coral Bay. The Spanish gave the mantas their name. It means blanket or cloak and that's what they look like.
Manta rays reach an average size of 6.7 wide and 1350kg. They are dark brown and black on top and white underneath. They eat microscopic plankton, small fish and tiny crustaceans which are plentiful in the Reef and Coral Bay. They do not attack humans, however it is best not to interfere while they are eating. They have a short tail and no stinging spine so are harmless to touch.
Nothing beats snorkelling or diving with wild manta rays! Also watch the visiting humpbacks as they come past the coast on their annual migration. The vessels that you will travel on, the Manta and Humpback Explorer Tour, are comfortable vessels provide excellent viewing and photography platforms. During your tour we will also do a single reef site: divers and snorkellers are welcome!
Further Information:
A Manta Ray tour starts from $110 a person for snorkelling only & $150 a person with single reef dive.
Exmouth Dive Centre - telephone 08 9949 1201.
Rooms at the Ningaloo Lodge start from $95 a double.
Facilities include pool, BBQ & games room.
Ningaloo Lodge - telephone 1800 880 949.
