Chapter 3: Carrying Capacity Studies for Sustainable Tourism: A Science-Based Management Approach to Sustainable Manta Ray Tourism in Raja Ampat, West Papua – Indonesia

Raja Ampat, located in West Papua – Indonesia, is renowned as a favoured tourist destination for manta ray tourism. In the years following the pandemic, there has been a noticeable increase in the number of visitors. Despite the benefits from tourists' expenditures, however, managing the influx of tourists poses an ongoing challenge in promoting sustainable tourism. This chapter focuses on carrying capacity studies examining manta ray tourism's economic, social and physical aspects in the Dampier Strait – Raja Ampat. Data was collected through on-site observations, interviews and surveys. The study aims to contribute to efforts and actions to reduce adverse effects on manta ray populations and their environments while advancing conservation, educational initiatives and responsible tourism practices for manta ray sustainable tourism. In summary, recommendations for sustainable tourism practices are proposed, including collaboration between stakeholders to continue research and monitoring, enforce guidelines and support conservation initiatives.