Raie Manta Club

Established in 1985 by Yves Lefèvre, the Raie Manta Club holds a significant place in the history of the Tuamotu Archipelago as its first dedicated dive centre. Over four decades, it has evolved into an international reference point, particularly for underwater photographers and those seeking specialised marine safaris.

The club operates across three distinct locations: Rangiroa, Tikehau, and Rurutu. This multi-base approach allows you to experience the varied ecosystems of French Polynesia, ranging from the high-energy passes of the Tuamotus to the whale watching opportunities in Rurutu.

The centre is built on a foundation of long-term expertise, focusing on high-level underwater photography and cinematic filming. They are affiliated with PADI, SSI, and CMAS, ensuring a wide range of recognised certifications are available.

Instruction is provided in both French and English. The team maintains a strong commitment to marine conservation, working in partnership with the Tendua association to support local wildlife protection programmes.

The club offers a comprehensive training programme through PADI, SSI, CMAS, and NAUI. You can begin your journey with an Open Water Diver course or progress through Advanced Open Water Diver and Rescue Diver certifications.

Their curriculum is designed to support divers of all levels, from those looking for their first experience in the water to advanced divers seeking specialised skills.

The centre utilises a 7.5m Zodiac Pro for excursions, powered by twin 115 CV engines. This setup is designed to handle the varied conditions of the atolls, providing reliable transport to the various passes and reef sites.

For those not travelling with their own kit, a full range of Scubapro equipment is available for hire. This includes 3mm shorty wetsuits, BCDs, regulators, fins, masks, snorkels, and weight belts.

The atolls offer spectacular encounters with megafauna. You can regularly see various shark species, including grey reef shark (Carcharhinus amblyrhynchos), blacktip reef shark (Carcharhinus melanopterus), lemon shark (Negaprion brevirostris), and tiger shark (Galeocerdo cuvier). Manta rays (Mobula alfredi) and various eagle rays are also part of the local ecosystem.

Seasonal highlights include the presence of humpback whales in Rurutu from July to October, and great hammerhead sharks (Sphyrna) from December to March. During the austral winter, you may also encounter leopard rays.

The reef is teeming with life, from Napoleon wrasse (Cheilinus undulatus) and various species of turtles to large schools of jacks (Carangidae) and barracuda (Sphyraena). You will also find tuna (Thunnus), marlins, and various reef sharks patrolling the edges of the passes.

On the seabed and within the reef structure, look for moray eels (Muraenidae), octopus (Octopoda), and various scorpionfish (Scorpaenidae). The smaller inhabitants include colourful reef fish, anemones, and various species of snapper (Lutjanidae).

Diving in the Tuamotu Archipelago is heavily influenced by the local passes, where currents can become very strong. These currents are often utilised for drift dives, which are a staple of the region.

Water temperatures remain warm throughout the year, typically ranging between 26 and 29°C.