ON THE TRAIL OF THE MANTAS
with Elly
OCEAN AND IT’S STEWARDS
A private marine biology expedition into one of the Pacific’s most extraordinary ecosystems.
MEET ELLY
_________For Elly, every day on the ocean begins with curiosity.
As a marine biologist and leader of Costa Rica’s Oceanic Manta Ray research programme, her work is devoted to understanding the lives of one of the ocean’s most graceful and mysterious species.
Her days are spent exploring the Pacific, documenting wildlife, identifying individual manta rays, contributing to scientific research and sharing a deeper understanding of the remarkable ecosystems that surround Costa Rica’s coastline.
Through The Current, Elly invites guests beyond a typical wildlife encounter and into the fascinating world of marine science, where every observation contributes to a greater understanding of the ocean we all depend upon.
WHY ELLY
_________Many people can take you diving.
Very few can introduce you to the Pacific through the eyes of a marine biologist.
Years of research, conservation work and countless hours on the water have given Elly an extraordinary understanding of these ecosystems and the wildlife that inhabits them. Her ability to combine scientific knowledge with genuine warmth and curiosity creates an experience that is both inspiring and deeply personal.
WORLD: Ocean & Its Stewards
FOCUS: Marine biology, manta rays & ocean conservation
LOCATION: Costa Rica
IDEAL FOR: Curious travellers • Wildlife lovers • Families • Photographers • Ocean enthusiasts
“The ocean has a way of reminding us what really matters. We just have to spend enough time listening.”
STEP INTO ELLY’S WORLD
A sample rhythm for the experience. Every private day is adapted to the guests, ocean conditions and the season.
Meet Elly over breakfast as she introduces the extraordinary marine life of Costa Rica’s Pacific coast and shares how scientists study oceanic manta rays, whales, dolphins and reef ecosystems.
8:00am
Depart by private boat for a marine biology expedition. Travel offshore searching for manta rays, dolphins, turtles and seasonal humpback whales while learning how researchers read ocean conditions and identify wildlife behaviour.`
If manta rays are encountered, enter the water respectfully to observe these magnificent animals in their natural environment. Discover how each manta can be identified by the unique markings on its underside and how every encounter contributes to long-term conservation research.
9:00am
Arrive at the yacht club for lunch overlooking the bay. Review photographs from the morning and discover how researchers catalogue individual manta rays, discuss migration patterns and explore the challenges facing marine ecosystems around the world.
1:00pm
Continue exploring the coastline, stopping at another reef or marine habitat while learning about coral communities, pelagic species and the interconnected relationships that sustain life beneath the surface.
3:00pm
Return to shore as the Pacific settles into evening, ending the day with drinks and to review the morning’s photographs to identify any manta rays encountered, comparing their unique belly patterns with existing records and contributing observations to ongoing research where appropriate.
Sunset
What you’ll leave with
A deeper understanding of one of the Pacific’s most remarkable ecosystems.
A new appreciation for the science helping protect our oceans.
Insight into the lives of oceanic manta rays and the people studying them.
Unforgettable encounters with Costa Rica’s marine wildlife.
A completely different perspective on the ocean beneath the surface.
Healthy oceans rely upon knowledge as much as protection.
Long-term scientific research helps reveal how marine ecosystems are changing, where species travel and what they need to survive. Every observation adds another piece to a much larger story.
By creating meaningful value around marine science and conservation, this experience helps demonstrate that research, education and environmental stewardship are not only essential to protecting the Pacific, but can also inspire a deeper connection between people and the natural world.
Guests leave not only with extraordinary memories, but with a greater understanding of why these ecosystems matter and the people working tirelessly to safeguard them.
Big ideas, real impact.
Ready to step into Elly’s world?
Every Current experience is completely private and thoughtfully tailored to each guest.
Tell us who you are travelling with and when you will be in Costa Rica, and we will begin creating your day.