Equality for Mantas: An Analysis of Stakeholder Perceptions Regarding the Manta Ray Tourism Industry in Ningaloo, Western Australia

Chloe A Hodkinson

Marine wildlife tourism, specifically manta ray tourism (MRT) has grown exponentially in recent years. The implementation of sustainable management practices for industry activities can support ecological integrity. The evaluation of industry stakeholder perceptions and visitor experiences can shed light on current industry concerns or achievements, and thus highlight areas to maintain and strengthen to positively promote species conservation efforts. Environmentally responsible behaviour can also be promoted through experience evaluation and is integral to the sustainability of MRT. This study sought to explore the views of stakeholders of the Ningaloo manta ray tourism industry. Surveys were self-administered by 268 tourists over the age of 18 onboard multiple commercial manta ray tour companies, operating out of Coral Bay, post-manta interaction. The survey aimed to gather manta interaction experiences, general feelings toward manta protection and visitor demographics. Interviews provided by eight industry stakeholders were used to identify perceptions of those involved in MRT at Ningaloo and focused on their career experiences in the MRT industry, opinions of the current management practices and discussing potential industry pressures. Accountability for interactions and consistency amongst commercial tour operators were the main discussion points evoked. Distinguishing the fine line between interaction and interference during manta-human in-water interactions, was an additional cause for concern. Manta scarcity was highlighted, also to be an industry issue and tour pressure, as on days multiple commercial boats must share a single manta. Clear and consistent regulations were desired by the stakeholders. Recommendations outlined by stakeholders include a cap on tourist numbers and boats for each interaction and the adoption of similar management practices successfully demonstrated by the Ningaloo whale shark industry. Developing a code of conduct for manta ray interactions was highly regarded, as was consistency in education and training for all staff onboard commercial tour boats. This evaluation of practice efficacy through stakeholder perceptions can ultimately assist in creating sustainable management strategies for the future.

Equality for Mantas: An Analysis of Stakeholder Perceptions Regarding the Manta Ray Tourism Industry in Ningaloo, Western Australia

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