DIVE LOG JUNE 2025 issue 412

with their wide wingspans. When you encounter them, it feels like time slows down as you marvel at the slowness and ease of their movements. Manta rays often congregate in the area, creating an unforgettable experience if you’re lucky enough to see multiple giants of the ocean together. Their presence adds another layer of awe to the already spectacular marine life at Julian Rocks. I met many freedivers at Julian Rocks, and I quickly noticed that as soon as they entered the water, their priority was clear—find a Manta Ray! At first, I was puzzled. Leopard Sharks, Turtles, Eagle Rays, and Wobbegong Sharks were everywhere, yet everyone seemed fixated on spotting a Manta Ray. When one was found, word would spread instantly, and everyone would rush to catch a glimpse of the giant gliding below. By day four I understood the fascination. The abundance of turtles, sharks, and other marine life was incredible, but Manta Rays would be something else! Strong currents often limited freediving to the spot called The Nursery, but whenever conditions allowed us to venture to the location called Needles, the chances of encountering Mantas increased dramatically. On day seven, my patience paid off. It was truly the day of Manta Rays! Four enormous Mantas cruised gracefully over the Needles, lingering as if they owned the place. They hung around, completely unfazed by the divers and snorkelers.

Spotted Eagle Rays ‘fly’ over coral reef, while below, a dense school of reef fish,

That day, I didn’t photograph anything else. I didn’t want to. In the ocean, there’s no guarantee of ‘later’ and I wasn’t going to waste a moment. For all three hours of freediving that day, I was entirely immersed in the magic of swimming with the Manta rays of Julian Rocks. While the Leopard Sharks and Manta Rays are seasonal

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DIVE LOG Australasia #412 June 25

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