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Marine life in the Maldives

With gorgeous white-sand beaches, clean oceans, and opulent resorts, the Maldives’ topography is already breathtaking. Underneath its alluring exterior, however, is something even better: a thriving aquatic life that can easily exceed your expectations and astound you. Here are some of the creatures you can meet on your next trip.

Manta Rays

Manta rays are thought to have the largest brains of all the species of cold-blooded fish. They are very intelligent and can even pass the mirror test, which may help to explain this. Manta rays can perform remarkable self-directed activities, such as dolphins and elephants, as well as contingency checking.

Whale Sharks

They are the largest and slowest swimming fish in the ocean that feeds on filters. The length of each confirmed individual is 18.8 meters. It extends its powerful jaws when it wants to eat and passively filters everything that gets in its way. With their enormous gaping mouths, they suck up neighbouring small fishes, plants, and other creatures that are swimming close to the water’s surface.

Sea Turtles

The Maldives is home to seven different kinds of sea turtles, often known as marine turtles: green, loggerhead, Kemp’s ridley, olive ridley, hawksbill, flatback, and leatherback. In comparison to their terrestrial or freshwater relatives, sea turtles generally have a more fusiform body pattern. And unlike many other turtles and tortoises, sea turtles cannot retreat their head and limbs into their shells for protection because of this tapering at both ends.

Where they commonly are

Manta rays like to feed in Hanifaru Bay in the Baa Atoll. While scuba diving is no longer legal, you may still swim or snorkel among these gentle giants and get up close to whale sharks. Between June and the beginning of October is the ideal season to travel. Dhigurah in the South Ari Atoll is a location where you can take part in whale shark snorkelling or diving. South Ari Atoll is another excellent place to watch whale sharks. The best months for sightings are from August to November, though they are excellent year-round. The northeast monsoon, which lasts from around October to May, is another time when manta rays can be spotted. If you want to see them, you can easily book one of Maldives beach hotels the likes of Cinnamon Velifushi Maldives, and have your hotel arrange an excursion for you.

Must-Try Adventure Activities in Maldives

If you’re looking to add some adventure to your getaway of beachside bliss in the Maldives, here are some activities that will add some exhilaration to your holiday.

benjamin-l-jones-XGygXrXUSGM-unsplash | Image by Benjamin L. Jones via Unsplash

Snorkelling

This water sport is one that the whole family can try and with the waters surrounding the islands home to thriving coral and marine life, you can look forward to many fascinating discoveries. For something truly memorable, stay at properties like Amilla Maldives Resort and Residences and go snorkelling amidst manta rays and whale sharks at Hanifaru Bay in the Baa Atoll during the season! You also get night snorkelling that offers a whole new perspective of life beneath the waves.

Scuba Diving

There are more marine marvels to encounter deeper underwater which is why scuba diving is amongst the best things to do in Maldives for adventure seekers. Stay at a resort that not only offers the needed PADI certification and training but access to key sites in the Baa Atoll, a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve. On your exploration, apart from vibrant coral, you can encounter butterflyfish, manta rays, eagle rays, nurse sharks, squirrelfish, stingrays, moray eels, turtles and more.

Dolphin Watching

Back above the waves, you can embark on a captivating dolphin-watching cruise at sunset. This time of the day makes excursions even more special as the skies radiate with colour as the sun slips below the horizon; best of all, is the chance to see dolphins swimming freely in their natural habitat without a care in the world. Amongst the memorable encounters, you can look forward to, is spotting playful spinner dolphins spinning or even leaping above the ocean waters!

Fishing

Those who love to fish are in for a treat since there are various activities to try including big game fishing; you get a chance to reel-in sought-after species like barracuda, sailfish, yellowfin tuna, wahoo, and barracuda. If you’re looking to experience something different, you can head off on a traditional sunrise fishing excursion to catch emperor fish or jackfish. Alternatively, you also get sunset fishing using the traditional Maldivian handline technique.

The Best Adrenaline-Rush Activities in Maldives

The Maldives may be known for its laidback charm, but don’t forget it has lots of action-packed activities too! Here’s a look at some of its best.

Image credit- Unsplash,Yuriy Vinnicov,CC0

Night Diving & Snorkelling

These two activities are captivating during the day, but at night, provide a whole new level of adventure! Available at private resorts like Huvafen Fushi Maldives that have PADI-certified diving courses, night diving and snorkelling let you encounter nocturnal creatures of the deep and bioluminescence via yellow mask filters and UV lights.

Jet-Skiing

If speed is what will fill your desire for an adrenaline rush, then jet-skiing is not to be missed; think of the vast Indian Ocean as your water-filled playground in the Maldives! Island resorts provide jet-skiing excursions which are ideal to explore the area around where you stay or even to head further afield into the horizon.

Seabob Adventures

A relatively new entrant into the field of water sports in Maldives, the Seabob is a high-powered underwater scooter that propels you on an amazing ride. It can reach speeds of around 20 km/h and you just need to hold on tight and manoeuvre it in and out of the water; if you ever wanted a “dolphin experience”, this will provide it!

Parasailing

If you’re not afraid of heights or want to conquer your fear of it, in an exhilarating way, then parasailing is perfect. You will be securely attached to a parasail which will be lifted to heights of around 150 metres when the speedboat reaches optimal velocity; couples seeking to take their love to new heights can opt for tandem parasailing at sunset!

Best Adventure Activities in the Maldives That Challenge the Daredevil in You

Adventurers heading to the Maldives may be surprised to find the sheer variety of thrilling activities on offer. Here’s a rundown of some of the country’s top activities for active visitors.

Catamaran Sailing

Although there are a great many sailing adventures accessible to visitors based at Cinnamon Velifushi Maldives or any similar Maldives beach hotels, none are quite as exciting as catamaran sailing. Offering one the chance to sail across the azure blue waters of the archipelago on board a vessel that is not as easy to navigate as a modern-day yacht can prove to be the experience of a lifetime for those who dare.

Parasailing

Those who wish to take to the skies and catch a glimpse of paradise from a unique vantage point should sign up for a parasailing tour of the coast. Available through a plethora of local tour operators and resorts, the thrill of being suspended above the waves is a feeling that is difficult to describe and replicate outside a beach paradise such as the Maldives.

Scuba Diving

Often listed among the best scuba diving hubs on the planet, no trip to the Maldives would be complete without travelling through the underwater caves, channels and shipwrecks that litter the seafloor of the archipelago. From HP Reef to Banana Reef and Manta Point, the large number of excellent dive sites makes this water sports activity a true adventure. The best time to visit the Maldives for a diving holiday is from December to March.

Kitesurfing

The idyllic lagoons of the Maldives are perfect for kitesurfing excursions for both seasoned surfers and novices.

5 Informative Facts That You Must Know About the Maldives

The Maldives is one of the most popular holiday destinations in the world, particularly among honeymooners. The island nation boasts a rich history, delicious cuisine, and a range of exciting activities.

The Maldives Is Located Close to the Equator

The Maldives is located quite close to the equator. And this means that sun rays will shine almost directly on you while you’re relaxing at your Maldives resort. So, make sure to bring plenty of sunscreen to protect your skin!

The Maldives Was Initially a Buddhist Nation

The Maldives was only converted to Islam in 1153 A.D. and today it stands as a proud Muslim nation. So, make sure that you leave any other religious texts, pork products, and alcoholic beverages at home when you’re about to head towards Kurumba Maldives or any other resort in the country for a splendid tropical vacation.

The Maldives Boasts Over 1000 Islands

The Maldives is formed out of 1,192 coral islands that are grouped in 26 atolls. These are peppered over the Indian Ocean over an area of roughly 90,000 square kilometres.

The Maldives’ Sand Is Smooth as Can Be

Usually, the beaches are made of sands that are made from quartz. However, the Maldives’ beaches contain sands that are extremely fine as they are coralline in origin. Coralline beaches are quite rare and represent less than five percent of the world’s beaches.

Exotic Wildlife In Maldives That Is Sure To Thrill Nature Lovers

Whales and dolphins, crocodiles and snakes, varieties of turtles, the bounty of fish of vibrant hues and the attractive feathered species make the Maldives rich in marine wildlife.

Colourful avifauna

Despite the small land area and isolation restricting the bird population of Maldives, between 160 to 180 species of sea or shorebirds do exist. Herons, seagulls, cranes and the national bird of the Maldives, water hens are seen in different varieties and colours.

Dolphins and whales

Varieties of dolphins and whales provide hours of great excursions for nature lovers as they patiently observe their antics. A bit further into the Indian Ocean, you can also see sperm whales, blue whales, etc.

Marine fish and the reef

Try diving or snorkelling to witness the underwater fantasy by a best Maldives resort. Thousands of fish teeming the coral reefs making a burst of colour giving one a surreal feeling, thus making you want to extend your stay at Ellaidhoo Maldives by Cinnamon or any such property in the Maldives.

The unique turtles

Many varieties of turtles are seen thriving in the rich seawater off the archipelago. Measures are taken to see to the wellbeing of this endangered species. Securing from irresponsible human action, eggs protected in secure areas are notable 02 such actions. Watch the emotional scene of newly hatched baby turtles making their way slowly to water.

The best seasons for diving in the Maldives – Know your way around

Diving in the Maldives is a popular pastime and one that calls for careful planning. Provided below are the best times to pay a visit to these awe-inspiring isles for a riveting dive.

Northeast monsoon period

Conducive weather conditions are the need of the hour ahead of any water sporting activity in this part of the world and in the case of scheduling diving expeditions, take note of the northeast monsoon season which descends from December to May. During this time, the winds are calmer which in turn contributes towards sunny skies and pleasing oceans; the perfect combination to delight in some diving. Further, the currents that flow through the atolls from December to March make for excellent visibility, especially if you’ve chosen the eastern atolls as your springboard. The eastern portion of the channels witness sharks congregates whilst western sections can be looked at for manta ray viewing.

Southwest monsoon period

With the advent of the southwest monsoons come June through November, the currents are known to move east within the channels. Importantly, visibility is at its best if one opts to dive in the western parts of the channels. However, you will have to deal with rough seas and stronger winds. In terms of the species that can be spotted, whale sharks, mantas, and turtles are one’s, constant companions.

Where can you stay?

Should you be seeking assistance in planning out a holiday where you can experience such excursions to the deep blue, then it is advisable to check in with properties such as Anantara Kihavah Maldives Villas who will also offer you convenient Maldives pool villa accommodation to come home to.

Experience Diving in Maldives

Providing unparalleled views of the country’s stunning coral and marine life, diving in Maldives offers unforgettable adventures and is not to be missed when on holiday.

Image credit- Unsplash,
Sebastian Pena Lambarri,CC0

Choosing a Resort

When selecting a suitable resort, ensure that it has a dive school / centre that offers SSI and PADI certified courses for both beginners and pros. Consider properties such as Kandolhu Maldives that also feature half and full-day excursions to dive sites, private diving options and unique experiences like fluorescent night dives too.

House Reef Dives

For those new to diving, a great place to start would be at a house reef, usually found near an island resort and its Maldives villas. Such house reefs can be easily accessed and provide ideal opportunities to encounter diverse marine species from colourful reef fish to hawksbill turtles, eagle rays, manta rays and even various sharks.

Key Dive Sites

There are plenty of dive sites in Maldives especially in destinations such as the North and South Ari Atolls. Notable hotspots include Fishhead and Maaya Thila that are two Protected Marine Areas home to grey reef sharks, Moofushi Manta Point (December to April), the Fesdu Wreck and Hammerhead Shark Point at Rasdhoo Atoll.

When to Dive

You can enjoy diving here year-round; that said, December to May, the dry season, generally has the best weather and visibility. However, you can still enjoy diving in the rainy season (June to November) too and in some locations, the build-up of plankton during this time will attract more whale sharks and manta rays.

The Ultimate Guide to Safe Snorkeling in the Maldives

Many water sports that you can try out while holidaying at one of the Maldives luxury resorts are quite safe. However, snorkelling (the one that seems so easy) is the sport that poses some minor threats for you.

Snorkel with an Expert

Shallow depths can often lull you into a false sense of safety. If you haven’t been snorkelling much, it would be best if you can tag along with a snorkelling expert. Calm waters may hide strong currents and these guides will help you avoid them.

Avoid Touching Marine Life

Well, you would certainly be mesmerised by the sheer beauty of the life beneath the waves while snorkelling during a holiday spent at a property such as Residence Maldives Falhumaafushi. But, make sure that you avoid touching these creatures as you never know what kinds of threats they may pose.

Use Well-Fitting Equipment

Make sure your snorkelling mask fits well. If it leaks or is too tight you wouldn’t be able to enjoy your snorkelling adventure.

Avoid Coral/ Rock Cuts

It is often advised that you shouldn’t step on corals as it would damage them and would be damaging to you in return. Make sure that you wear reef shoes and a thick wet suit in case you accidentally happen to step on or brush past them.

SCUBA Diving in the Maldives

On land , the Maldives is everything; the perfect island paradise. It is all that and much more, underwater, with spectacular marine life and colourful coral structures. As such it has become a must-visit location for snorkelling and

Tchami, Maldives (32684393662), CC BY-SA 2.0

SCUBA diving enthusiasts.
Coral structures are abundant in the Maldives and a conscious effort is being made by hotels and resorts situated on the islands to preserve the corals and provide them with a rich habitat to thrive in.

Diving in the Maldives
Maldives diving is mostly done from liveaboards with the current acting as the anchor that drives you forward. It makes one great ride as the currents ebb and flow through the atolls and bring you in close quarters to all the wide varieties of fish. Diving facilities are often provided by resorts like Kandolhu Maldives.

Features of the Sites
There are two features at dive sites that scuba divers will encounter, and they are the pinnacles and current swept channels. If you are exploring the channels you will come across caves and caverns and are lush in soft coral.

The pinnacles are often found in atoll lagoons and shoot straight up almost breaking the surface. They are home to sessile life forms that act as a great base for sponges and soft corals. This, in turn, makes it the perfect habitat for crustaceans and schools of fish.
Swimming out from the reefs will bring you in close quarters of the pelagics which include eagle rays, manta rays and a great many species of shark.