Organizing Manta Ray Viewing Sites with the Campfire Method
The Campfire Method is a safe and sustainable way to organize manta ray viewing sites. Read how it works and why it’s important for tour operators to comply!
Big Island manta ray tour operators mixed about proposed rules, possible new law
Article on Big Island Now with interviews of multiple manta ray tour business owners
Manta ray tours popularity prompts regulation
Report by on khon2.com stressing the need for enforceable legislation for manta ray tour operators
Manta ray snorkeling off Big Island to see new rules in place to address safety
KITV4 report on new rules being created for manta ray viewing off Hawaii Island
Profit Over Safety: Ecotourism Gone Wrong?
Article on Seven Seas Media about the safety issues and proposed regulations for manta ray tourism.
State takes action after manta ray found gouged off Hawaii Island
Reaction from DLNR after Eli Ray was found severely injured by propeller blades near Garden Eel Cove
How to save lives without scaring tourists away
Article in Civil Beat about ocean recreation safety in Hawaii
Is Hawaii doing enough to oversee commercial tour operators?
Article in Civil Beat about the lack of oversight on tour companies, including their safety record or whether swim guides are qualified and trained.
2015 Assessment of MR boating operations - Dr. Sam Kahng
A 2015 assessment of the risks in nightly manta ray viewing tours around Kona, Hawaii concluded that severe accidents are inevitable under the current circumstances. More details here!
Manta tour operator standards
Manta tour operators in Hawaii set up guidelines for manta ray tour safety. Find the highlights and download the original document here!