A visit from the Queen of Mantas
As of August 2017, Ocean Dimensions are now diving & snorkelling in the Unesco Biosphere Reserve in the Baa Atoll at Kihaa Maldives – the closest resort to Hanifaru Bay. We hope to see you there!
A holiday combined with a research trip brought Dr. Andrea Marshall not only to the Maldives but right here to Six Senses Laamu! A very appropriate destination given her affinity with the majestic manta rays and our close proximity to a fantastic Manta Point.
Having made a name for herself in the diving world, the famous Queen of Mantas was recognised by some of our guests who were very keen to join her on a dive to learn more about these magnificent creatures. With our manta point situated only 5 minutes from the resort, we are able to dive it on a regular basis throughout the entire year. Our recent dives here have been extra special as we’ve been able to observe ‘mating trains’ – a ritual in which several males follow one female and compete for her attention.
Dr. Andrea Marshall was the first person in the world to complete a PhD on manta rays. She co-founded the Marine Megafauna Foundation and, as its principal scientist, leads research and conservation programs to save globally threatened manta ray populations. She travels extensively and is able to observe wonderful, intimate moments with manta rays but also the horrors of unsustainable fishing practices such as blast fishing. Her mission is share her perspective of the underwater world with divers, snorkelers and the public in general and here at Six Senses Laamu we were lucky enough to join Dr. Andrea Marshall’s very interesting manta ray presentations.
Andrea works tirelessly to campaign for the worldwide protection of these amazing graceful giants of the ocean. If you would like to find out more about her and her work in the preservation and management of the remaining manta ray populations around the world please visit her site by clicking the button below.
Finally, both the team and the guests at Six Senses Laamu would like to say a very big thank you – for visiting us, diving with us and spreading awareness of the precious world of manta rays.
