There are certain manta rays that seem to be attracted to the lights at Sheraton Keauhou Bay Resort & Spa on a regular basis.  Their names are:
"Wing Ray" (my namesake and personal favorite), "Salem,"  "Hans," "Capt. Kirk," and newly identified "Reece," "Milo," and "China."

They all seem to stay fairly close to "home" and some  are juveniles; or pups, as they are called in manta-speak.  Wing Ray, Salem, Hans, and Capt. Kirk were ID'd in mid-2006.  That the adults are producing offspring is an indication to us that the population, overall, is healthy.  Further, it appears that we have developed a southern group of individuals that do not travel to the northern site (16 miles to the north).  The manta rays have been very consistent and while their numbers up north are usually higher, what we lack in numbers we make up for in consistency.

Sea Paradise continues to do a great job hosting Sheraton guests on Hokuhele.  Captain Rich Kirsten is at the helm of the 46-foot luxury catamaran that comes equipped with restrooms and a fresh water shower. Travel to the site from Keauhou Bay is a mere 5 minutes and snacks and soft drinks are provided.

We hope to see you aboard soon for the experience of a lifetime.
With Aloha,
James L. Wing