Support Oceanic Manta Ray Research

Join renowned manta researcher, Dr. Madalena Cabral, Scientific Director of the Oceanic Manta Project at Mares de Mexico and professional photographer & conservationist, Jay Clue, for a very special manta research expedition to Socorro and the Revillagigedo!

This is your chance to not only witness some of the most cutting-edge manta research firsthand, but also to get involved and help support the science behind protecting oceanic manta rays! Dr. Cabral’s work focuses on trying to answer one of the ocean’s greatest mysteries: where and how do oceanic manta rays reproduce in the wild? Her work uses specialized technology to ultrasound pregnant manta rays to see how they develop, as well as satellite tagging and more! This incredible research is already leading to several scientific publications, with more currently in development—an exciting step forward for both science and conservation.

Only 6 lucky guests will be able to join this special expedition as part of the research team alongside Dr. Cabral and Jay Clue. If you would like to take a more active role, you can be assigned duties to help with the research project. Or for those who prefer to experience the project from a more relaxed perspective, the trip offers a rare opportunity to witness the research firsthand while also diving the Revillagigedo within a small, focused group of just 8 divers (with only two groups on board). And, thanks to the vessel’s speed, we reach the archipelago in approximately 24 hours (most ships take 30 hours), which often allows for additional dives and maximizes time in the water at some of the most extraordinary sites in the world.

Your trip purchase also directly contributes to manta research by helping fund satellite tags for the expedition, research logistics and more. So you are not only getting to be involved in the research, but also helping support the research and protection of manta rays in the Revillagigedo. Dive Ninja is solely providing a booking platform and taking no funds or profits from this trip, so 100% of every dollar you spend goes directly toward the research project.

Beyond the diving, guests are invited to become part of the story. Many choose to contribute to the project through onboard activities such as the organization and curation of photo-identification data—an essential component of our research. These contributions have proven incredibly valuable. This unique combination of exploration, contribution, and discovery allows participants not only to witness these animals in the wild but also to play a part in uncovering their story.