Few marine animals leave such a lasting impression as manta rays. Their massive size, fluid movement, and calm presence make any encounter unforgettable, but it’s their intelligence and curiosity that truly set them apart.

According to the Guide to Manta & Devil Rays of the World (2018), mantas have brains that are disproportionately large for their body size. Their social nature and the way they interact with divers and snorkelers suggest there’s a remarkable level of awareness happening behind those eyes. Some research even points to the possibility that manta rays are self-aware, putting them among the most intelligent species in the ocean.

I’ve had the privilege of swimming with mantas in four incredible places: the Maldives, Fiji, Palau, and Bali.

In the Maldives, I had the chance to see mantas (Manta alfredi) at Prodivers Maldives on Kuredu Island. I spent a month there, thanks by the Rolex Scholarship, to learn about underwater videography to help me capture my adventures. Swimming with mantas in the Maldives was an experience I’ll never forget: their grace and intelligence are simply unmatched.

In Fiji, I visited Barefoot Manta with my husband Dan to see the population of reef manta rays (Manta alfredi) that aggregate in the shallow channel between Drawaqa and Naviti islands. There, strong tidal currents bring dense clouds of zooplankton, attracting mantas to feed. Floating above them while freediving, watching them loop and glide below, was one of the most peaceful and awe-inspiring experiences of my life.

I also encountered mantas in Palau, where Dan was filming a promotional piece for the Siren Fleet. Palau is known for drift dives and big pelagics, and the sight of mantas soaring over coral channels, appearing suddenly out of the blue, left us both speechless.

Another unforgettable encounter took place in Bali, we visited the famous Manta Point off Nusa Penida, where I was lucky enough to see these graceful giants in the crystal-clear waters. The combination of Bali’s rich underwater life and the close encounters with mantas was truly unforgettable.

Manta rays are one of my favourite marine species. They’re not just beautiful and powerful, they’re also vulnerable. These gentle giants need more attention, protection, and understanding. Each time I see one in the wild, I’m reminded of how lucky I am and how important it is to keep working to safeguard our oceans.