Manta Ray Tours in Hawaii Face Safety Concerns and Calls for Shutdown
As the sun sets over Hawaii's Kona Coast, boats depart from Keauhou Bay, carrying enthusiasts eager to swim with manta rays. However, the popularity of these tours has sparked a heated debate about safety and overcrowding, with some calling for a shutdown.
Bill Murtagh, a decade-long veteran of manta ray tours and owner of the Nainoa, supports responsible operation rather than a complete shutdown. He explains that plankton attracted to boat lights creates a feeding opportunity for these gentle giants, which lack teeth or stingers. Manta rays use their cephalic fins to funnel water and plankton into their mouths during these feeding events.
Typically, about ten people participate in each tour. However, the increasing number of tours has raised concerns about safety for both humans and manta rays. The Hawaii State Land Department is considering rules requiring boats to tie up to buoys instead of drifting with engines on, to address these concerns.
After a year-long debate, potential rules and regulations for manta ray tours in Hawaii are still under consideration. While some advocate for a shutdown, responsible operators like Bill Murtagh argue for sustainable practices. The future of these tours hangs in the balance, awaiting a decision that balances safety, conservation, and tourism.
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