Is there a difference in the timing of the manta charters?

Yes

Companies offering the early trip, leaving before sunset: Pro – higher probability of seeing a manta, you get to see the sunset from the water, there is greater ability to get food after the charter. Cons – more people in the water and more boats at the site.

Companies offering the late trip usually leaving 1 1/2 hrs or more after sunset:

Pro- Less people at the site Con: its dark the whole time; there aren’t many restaurants open after the charter; ride share services and taxi’s can be harder to secure the later into the evening you go.

Companies, like ours, leaving right at or just after sunset: Pro – higher probability of seeing mantas; getting to the manta site at the “changing of the guards” when the early boats are leaving and late boats haven’t made it back yet; possibility of catching some of the sunset from the water; some restaurants are still open upon returning to the dock. Cons: there is only one tour offered for the boat so spots book up quickly.