Destinations
Historical photograph of the former Black Manta liveaboard; not confirmation of its current configuration or availability.
KM Black Manta dive boat review
Black Manta: historical review
This is an archived review of the former White Manta Fleet vessel. Black Manta was sold and left that fleet. Its current name, operator and future departures have not been confirmed for this page. Do not use the historical descriptions or guest reviews below as a current booking offer.
Planning a new trip? Start with our Indonesia diving guide and compare the vessel name, itinerary, departure date and inclusions before booking.
About the former liveaboard
Our original review described a 32-metre steel-hulled vessel accommodating up to 20 guests, with an indoor saloon, dining area and sundeck. It covered trips in Raja Ampat and Komodo. These details are retained for historical context only.
The old price estimate and in-article booking offer have been removed. Any legacy “Check prices” links elsewhere on this page are not confirmation that this vessel can be booked; verify the vessel identity on the destination page.
Historical guest reviews
These reviews describe past trips and do not confirm the vessel’s current operator, facilities or availability.
“After my week on the Black Manta, I still couldn’t catch my breath. I just lived the most magical experience of my life. My friends ask about my favourite dive and all I can answer is “every single dive was my favourite!!!” Seriously, I could not name one site more than another, it was all different, all unique and fantastic in different ways. The marine life if stunning and so diversified. The reefs are… Impossible to describe. The ocean floor’s topography goes up and down and is beautifully challenging to navigate. The vessel is newly refurbished and very luxurious! It’s super study so even when the ocean goes crazy you won’t feel it so much. The sun deck is awesome! We could even jog on it! The food was above all expectations and the crew was very knowledgable and helpful!”
– Kari
“The Black Manta boat is phenomenal. Our cruise and dives unfolded smoothly and nicely for our greatest pleasure. Safety was always super important. The staff does not hesitate to go out of their path to help you with anything. The diving sites offered in Raja Ampat were simply majestic and pristine. The equipment they provide is great and the boat itself is spacious and comfy. A hidden gem!”
–Eugene
Where does this liveaboard dive boat go?
Check out the fabulous places where this dive boat travels to.
Note: some destinations may not be listed below, please enquire for more details.
destination of the monthKomodo Island
Diving in Komodo Islands is all about action! It is BIG fishes land! With wonderful coral, it is just incredible diving all year round.
Raja Ampat
Richest Reef in the World, Amazing Biodiversity, Wonderful Coral, perfect place for underwater photography.
- If you have been diving on board this liveaboard dive boat in Komodo Island & Raja Ampat, please share your review and let us know what you thought. Please post your comments in the review section below, by doing so you will help fellow divers to plan their next diving trip
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KM Black Manta offers a huge space for everyone, which I really love! Spending 6 nights on this astounding dive boat made my Rajah Ampat diving experience more exciting and adventurous, which I would never forget for the rest of my life! I’m already looking forward to the time when I could experience once again the quality service offered on board Black Manta, so I’m definitely going back next year!
I had a great time hanging out with the cool and very knowledgeable dive director, Cedric and his friendly crew. Since it was my first time to dive in Raja Ampat, I was a bit excited and anxious regarding the water current. But I was pleased that he assured me that the current is still manageable so I don’t need to worry. He also shared plenty of information regarding the area and the beautiful dive sites and the numerous species that we could possibly spot along the way.
Unlike in any other liveaboards that I’ve tried before, Cedric has a good leadership and coordination with his crew. He seemed to be comfortably in control at all times. Cedric was also enthusiastic to talk to the guests and answer our questions, shared his comments and suggestions which were very helpful. The crew members assisted the divers as well. After a tiring day of diving, the crew never fails to appear at the dive deck bringing some hot drinks and fresh towel. I would also like to commend the female crew for doing a great job on housekeeping duties! It’s always nice to be back in an orderly cabin with clean and crisp sheets.
This is a boat where everything works and looks clean, fresh and inviting! Divers can also look forward to the spaciousness of the boat in general, the size of the cabins, and the tidy bathrooms. KM Black Manta also served palatable Thai and international food. You can choose to devour them either in the air-conditioned dining room or in the outdoors. I personally liked the homemade Manado chilli paste, which is really tasty! You can also grab some cookies and fruits as well as water, tea, sodas and coffee. They are all free! Overall, I had a very incredible liveaboard experience with KM Black Manta. Thank you for the fantastic dive, the skillful staff and the good memories!
Anna
Boat is big, food was generally great. Nice diving equipment. Dive sites are breathtaking. The crew does the minimum, I found they could have been more professional. Overall fantastic experience!
Boat is big, food was generally great. Nice diving equipment. Dive sites are breathtaking. The crew does the minimum, I found they could have been more professional. Overall fantastic experience!