Vallaray was identified on October 21, 2006, by Chuck Mather on Ironman day.
She was still a pup and about 4 feet across. It took her some time to get comfortable with the lights, but today she has no fear of being close to divers and snorkelers. She mostly feeds at Manta Village but can also be seen at Manta Heaven.
We met Vallaray in August 2022 at Mauna Kea Beach during a wonderful night swim accompagnied by James and 4 other guests. Vallaray was one of three mantas that were with us and she was the one closest to us and who twirled around a lot. So we could see her markings very well and know that it was her. It was just beautiful! Black Diamond was there as well (Unfortunately, we don’t remember the name of the third manta…) We really loved our experience with the mantas !