Manta Bay Nusa Penida: Things to know before visiting
Some people visit different beaches in different countries to dive or snorkel. If you are one of them, you must visit Manta Bay in Nusa Penida, Bali. This bay is actually a bay because there are several bays in the area surrounded by steep cliffs.
You can see manta rays from sea level as the bay is shallow. Snorkelers can also enjoy activities in this bay. Are you ready to visit the bay and meet the manta rays? Below is all you need to know before you book our Nusa Penida tour package.
What You’ll See in Manta Bay
People believe that mantas are dangerous because they can grow up to 7 metres long and weigh up to 3000 kg. But in fact this large animal is completely harmless to humans. The mantas found in Bali are the Manta Alfredi or Coral Manta species.
These mantas are the second largest mantas after the oceanic mantas. These mantas are filter feeders, eating only crustaceans, plankton and smaller fish. Manta rays do not have sharp teeth. They only use their teeth to chew their food.
Manta rays do not have a poisonous tail sting, so you can swim comfortably and safely with them. These rays enjoy interacting with people and are not frightened by snorkelers.
Best time to Visit Manta Bay
There is no specific season for mantas in Bali. These manta rays are present all year round due to the undersea flow across Indonesia. Technically speaking, this is a huge amount of water that flows around the Indonesian archipelago, from East Timor all the way to Bali.
Book your trip to Manta Bay with a local operator who will do their best to help you spot manta rays while snorkelling or diving. According to the locals, it is best to visit the bay in the morning when the manta rays are most active.
How to get to the amazing manta ray site
The bay is located on the west side of Nusa Penida Island, precisely in Tanjung Pandan. If you are going to visit this site from Bali, there are several ways that can help you reach Nusa Penida Snorkelling site.
Fast Boat
Fast boats are the only form of transport that can take you south from the main island of Bali. You have to go to Padang Bai harbour or Sanur harbour if you want to go directly to this bay. At these ports you can buy tickets to reach Nusa Penida by boat. Click here to find out how to get to Nusa Penida safely and correctly.
It takes approximately 50 minutes to sail from the main island of Bali. If you are departing from Nusa Ceningan or Nusa Lembongan, the best way to get there is still by speedboat. It takes less time to get there than from Bali.
Rent a Car
Manta Bay is reached by land and sea, with a boat service providing access. The easiest way to get to this snorkelling spot is to hire a vehicle from a local company. There are a number of rental companies that offer this service. For a faster trip, you can rent a motorbike. But for a more comfortable trip, rent a car if you are travelling in a group.
If you don't want to think about the hassle, the easiest way is to book a tour package to the island of Nusa Penida. The package includes transportation to various destinations around Nusa Penida, including snorkelling spots where you can enjoy snorkelling.
Rules to follow when Snorkeling
Are you ready to explore the beauty of Manta Bay? You will see fish, coral and manta rays. However, there are some rules that need to be followed.
Don't touch the beautiful corals
A responsible snorkeller should not touch the coral. You can get hurt by touching the coral. Some species, such as fire coral, have poisonous and painful stings. Some corals can cause a burning sensation, rash or even skin irritation. Leave the coral alone to avoid problems if you are snorkelling for a long time.
Don't feed all sea creatures
Marine animals like manta rays do not eat bread or corn, so do not feed them anything that is not their own food because it can make them ill.
Private Nusa Penida Tour Services
If you are ready to visit Manta Bay, book our Nusa Penida Snorkelling Tour. This tour will take you to several different snorkelling sites. Visit the official Wisata Bali Penida website for the Nusa Penida Tour and book your package.