The International Union for the Conservation of Nature Maldives is holding a seminar to inform local residents about sustainable practises in “manta tourism” in the Maldives.
The free public seminar will be held on this Saturday (March 15), from 10:00 – 12:00 at the Faculty of Education Auditorium, Ameenee Building, Malé.
Based on surveys of experienced divers and tourists, the manta-related touristic activity is estimated to be worth about US$8.1 million per year in direct revenue.
There is a concern, however, that the large numbers of tourists flocking to popular manta sites could be having a negative impact on manta numbers.
The seminar will discuss different options for developing a responsible ‘manta Tourism’ and will describe some best practices to follow while viewing mantas because preventing disturbances will help keep a healthy population of rays in the Maldives.
