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Marine life · Naviti, Ba
Canal das raias-manta de Drawaqa (Manta Ray Passage)
Narrow channel between Drawaqa and Naviti where manta rays commonly feed from May to October, visited on guided snorkel trips from nearby accommodations.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Canal das raias-manta de Drawaqa (Manta Ray Passage)
The channel between the islet Drawaqa and Naviti, in the middle of the Yasawa, is one of the places in Fiji where manta rays tend to appear most frequently. On the flood tide, the current brings plankton through the channel, and the mantas enter to feed near the surface with their mouths open.
The season runs from May to October. During that period, nearby accommodations send an observer to the channel and notify guests when the mantas are there; the boat takes the group and everyone enters the water with mask and snorkel to swim alongside them.
Manta rays can span several meters and are harmless. A research and conservation project monitors the animals in the channel and identifies each one by the belly markings.
To avoid disturbing the animals, the rules are simple: do not touch, do not chase, do not swim over them and keep your distance. Scuba diving is also possible with local operators, but most outings are snorkel-based.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
1 to 2 hours per outing, depending on the waiting time for the mantas.
Best time
From May to October, on the flood tide, when the mantas usually enter the channel. The timing changes daily with the tide and sightings are not guaranteed.
How to get there
By boat, from the accommodations on Drawaqa and Naviti. Those on other Yasawa islands can reach it on boat trips organized by their accommodations.
Tip
Be ready in swimwear with your mask: notice that the mantas have arrived usually comes with little advance. Use reef-safe sunscreen, or a lycra shirt.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Canal das raias-manta de Drawaqa (Manta Ray Passage)
When is manta season?
From May to October, when manta rays usually enter the channel to feed.
Are manta rays dangerous?
No. They are filter-feeding animals, without a stinger, and generally are not bothered by swimmers at a distance.
Can you touch the mantas?
No. The rule is do not touch, do not chase and keep your distance.
Do you need scuba gear?
No. Most outings are snorkel-based, at the surface.