The growing popularity of manta ray watching highlights the need for tourism practices that respect these animals and their habitat. The Friend of the Sea certification sets specific requirements for manta watching operators with the aim of reducing the impact of these experiences.
Celebrated every year on 17 September, World Manta Day provides an opportunity to learn more about these fascinating animals and raise public awareness of their conservation.
Manta rays are cartilaginous fish belonging to the same group as sharks and rays. Some individuals can reach a wingspan of seven metres and weigh up to two tonnes. Despite their impressive size, they are harmless to humans, yet particularly vulnerable.
The main threats they face include bycatch and targeted fishing, pollution, habitat degradation and the trade in gill plates.
The oceanic manta ray and reef manta ray, for example, are classified as endangered and vulnerable, respectively.
Manta watching: observing without disturbing
In recent decades, tourism activities centred on observing manta rays through diving and snorkelling, commonly known as “manta watching”, have grown worldwide.
These experiences can help increase knowledge of manta rays and raise awareness of their conservation but, if not properly managed, they can also negatively affect the animals’ welfare.
Overcrowding, direct contact and inappropriate behaviour in the water can cause stress and disturb manta rays during important activities such as feeding.
The Friend of the Sea standard for Manta Watching was developed to address precisely this need: balancing the experience of observing manta rays with respect for the animals and their habitat.
Friend of the Sea certification for Manta Watching
Friend of the Sea® is a project of the World Sustainability Organization (WSO) and one of the world’s leading certification programmes for products and services that respect and protect the marine environment. The certification sets requirements for fisheries, aquaculture, marine-derived ingredients and other sectors, with the aim of supporting the conservation of marine ecosystems and aquatic resources worldwide.
Friend of the Sea certification for Manta Watching is designed for operators offering manta ray watching activities and aims to minimise disturbance to the animals and their habitat. The standard sets out specific criteria and also draws on recommendations from the Manta Trust, an international organisation dedicated to manta ray research and conservation.
The requirements include avoiding direct contact with manta rays, training for operators and crews, the adoption of appropriate behaviour and swimming practices in the presence of the animals, and measures aimed at avoiding the use of single-use plastics on board.
To mark World Manta Day, Friend of the Sea is once again drawing attention to the importance of balancing the growing appeal of manta ray tourism with the need to protect the animals and their habitat.
