Gigantic manta ray buzzes scuba diver as he surfaces

Solon is an accomplished scuba diver who has been working as an underwater guide for nearly 35 years. He has logged approximately 15,000 dives, taking his adventurous clients to some of the most remote and beautiful parts of the planet. Solon has seen magnificent ocean creatures up close as often as almost anyone in the business. With all of his experience in the water, only something truly amazing could take his breath away like this encounter with a manta ray did.Show more

Manta rays are beautiful and majestic giants with a wingspan that can reach 10m (29 feet). They are massive animals and they glide through the water with a grace that is impossible to describe. Solon was returning to the surface when he came upon this manta feeding in a school of smaller fish. He was thrilled to catch it all on video and he thought the encounter was over. To his surprise, the manta ray buzzed past solon, brushing against his hip with its outstretched wing tip. Solon didn't realize this was happening until the ray was past him, arcing smoothly out of sight.

Manta rays are highly intelligent, and although reclusive and difficult to find, they can also be curious about a scuba diver who appears non threatening. Solon has a true love for this incredible underwater domain and a healthy respect for the creatures who call this home. To interact with such a beautiful beast in the wild is something that he will never forget.