Looking for the Manta Rays–Naviti Island

We finally got out of Port Denarau and headed to the Yasawa Islands.  First stop – Naviti to see the Manta Rays.

Dinner is served!

Cuvu Bay

It is only 40 miles, but so different. 

Lots of reefs, crystal clear waters, and anchorages with just our friends – Interlude IX and Enchantment.

We motored with 3 navigation systems running and a track to follow, but still had to keep a sharp eye.  There are reefs everywhere!

Doug was happy – caught 3 fish along the way.  2 Skipjacks (returned to the sea), plus a really tasty mackerel (cooked and shared with friends).

Interlude IX leading the way

We anchored in Cuvu Bay, which is right next to the pass where the Manta Rays feed every morning.  A quest!

Manta Hunter

We hopped in the dinghy’s the next morning and went searching for these amazing creatures – us and several small tour boats from the nearby resorts – of course.

Big Manta Ray

But, it was great.  Everyone so excited to see the Manta’s sail up and down the pass – feeding on the plankton.  They are definitely not afraid of us – just hungry.  Swam right underneath our dinghy!

Doug wasn’t 100% yet and I was chicken, so we haven’t actually swam with them yet, but promise to next time. 

Interlude IX sailing away

We had two nights in Cuvu Bay with our friends.  Enchantment hosted us all on their boat for pizza night and then headed north. 

Interlude IX invited us over the next night for games and all kinds of wonderful food and then left for Savusavu.  Going to miss them, but know we will meet up soon.

So, a wonderful time was had by all, but then it was just Moondance and we decided to hoist anchor.  Cuvu Bay is unprotected from the tradewinds and it was pretty windy, so time to move to Waya – just a short hop south.

Lots of pictures of Waya to follow!