The Manta Ray system consists of a utility anchor attached to an anchor. A hydraulic jackhammer and gad, attached to the anchor, drives the Manta Ray into the sea bottom. The anchors are driven 7 feet into the bottom. Once the anchor and rod are in place the anchor is set and locked into a permanent position. To lock the anchor into place an upward force is applied so that the anchor wing rotates and pivots into a locked position. Holding capacity varies with the size of anchor used and substrate characteristics, but can range from 8,000 to 14,000 pounds in clay or loose sand, to 32,000 to 40,000 pounds for dense sand, compact gravel, or sandstone. Holding capacity requirements vary with size of the boat attached to the Manta Ray system. On average, a 65-foot sailboat requires approximately 30,000 pounds of holding capacity.

The Manta Ray system eliminates the need for the heavy block and chain of conventional mooring systems, which can often damage the surrounding sea bottom. Hawser wire is used instead of chain - this is a " steel rope" which will run straight to the surface without running along the reef. Materials used in the system are selected to produce a strong, inexpensive and environmentally sound unit.