Water | The Adventure Travel Site

Dolphin Watching near Raa Atoll Maldives

When it comes to travel in the 21st century, the Maldives islands are one of the most famed and sought after destinations on the planet, right up there with locales such as Paris and Bali.

Raa Atoll

This a significant administrative division in the Maldives that boasts some of the most beautiful landscapes in the nation. Alifushi island also falls into this territory and is one of the most renowned of the islands in the country

Moresby Channel

This channel exists between the Northern Maalhosmadulu Atoll and the Fasdhutere Atoll, and is a very historically significant place. It was named in honour of Captain Robert Moresby, who more or less single-handedly chartered the Maldives atolls.

Tourism

These atolls are strictly off limits for tourists until very recently due to their unique geographical and zoological features. If you’re looking for a Maldives beach resort around this beautiful place there are a few to choose from such as Dhigali Maldives.

An Abundance of Marine Life

In addition to remarkable schools of Dolphins, you can discover a range of other creatures such as rays and some incredibly rare whales such as the Tropical Bottlenose Whale which many believe to be the rarest species of whale in the world.

Filled with wanderlust that seeks to explore distant shores and captivated by the colors and vibrancy of exotic cultures, Kanya Mae writes on the beautiful, exciting, and enchanting wonders of the world. She is a writer who not only has a passion for travel, but also has a background in fashion, art and media. Google+

Guide to Whale Watching in Mirissa

Mirissa is one of the most popular coastal locales in Sri Lanka, and in addition to offering beautiful beaches with powdery sands and turquoise waters, it is has a significant whale population.

Overnight stay at Cape Weligama & Weligama — Image Credit – Walkers Tours

International Grade Operations

Pretty much all the providers of whale-watching expeditions operate under very strict guidelines to ensure the wellbeing of the marine titans. Among many things they refrain from venturing unnecessarily close to the whales, and they never interfere with the creature’s course.

The Vessels

The whale-watching boats are generally large vessels with a capacity of at least forty people. The ones run by the military are even bigger, and can hold more than a hundred passengers. The price is also generally inclusive of insurance relating to the boat and its passengers respectively.

Procuring a Tour

A whale-watching adventure should definitely be a priority when it comes to things to do in Sri Lanka. You can easily procure a whale-watching expedition from many travel providers such as Walkers Tours.

Whale-Watching Season

The optimal time to go whale-watching is from November to April, where there’s a very high number of whales and the seas are also quite calm. Although there will be whales from May to October as well, the seasons tend to be quite rough and the voyage is not recommended.

Roland Lefevre is a travel writer who specializes in creating features on leisure as well as business travel destinations across the globe.

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Diving in Maldives -Beauty of the world under

Anyone who ever plans to visit Maldives will surely have diving in mind, it is one of the must try activities on the islands.

Discover Scuba Diving — Img by: Summitandbeach via Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0

Diving in the Maldives is an extra ordinary experience as the clear blue waters let you see every colour and beautiful coral reef the seabed has to offer. Planning your vacation with travel agencies like Maldives Resorts Club lets you put together the perfect holiday activities for your tastes, be it a lazy day lounging by the beach or having thrilling adventures.

Best Dives

scuba diver — Img via : publicdomainpictures

Literally, every island in Maldives will have a diving spot around it, and of them, all the greatest dives are at the Fotteyo Kandu, Kuredu Express, Okobe Thila, Kandooma Thila, Broken Rock and Kudarah Thila. These sites have some of the most vibrant fishes and are home to both soft and hard corals respectively.

Going underwater

The water is not chilling and the temperature stays around 27 degrees throughout the year. Diving can be done during all the months except the monsoon periods and during the sunnier days, the visibility under water can up to an impressive 70 feet. Manta rays, tuna, eagle rays, a variety of sharks and more pelagic animals can be found in the open ocean near the reefs.

Fritzjames Stephen is a travel writer, who writes content based on the myriad of experiences and indulgences that the world has to offer travellers across all walks of life. Google+

Discovering Hanifaru Bay in Maldives

Image Credit-Shiyam ElkCloner, Dharavandhoo Thila – Manata Black Pearl, CC BY-SA 3.0

One of the most precious marine habitats in the Maldives, Hanifaru Bay has a rich marine biodiversity and offers plenty of amazing sights to be discovered. Those lucky enough to dive here will also see a wide range of marine life that swim wild and free in its waters.

Where can it be found

Image Credit-Frédéric Ducarme, Baa atoll islands, CC BY-SA 4.0

Hanifaru Bay can be found in what is known as the Baa Atoll in Maldives. While this site is part of a Biosphere Reserve it is also a Marine Protected Area. Those in search of a hotel near Hanifaru Bay from which to head to this site can consider options such as Dhigali Maldives.

The highlight at Hanifaru
The main draw at Hanifaru Bay is undoubtedly the chance to see manta rays. In fact, this site is known as one of the largest manta ray feeding destinations in the world. Little surprise that underwater photographers love coming here!

Best time for mantas

Image Credit-TANAKA Juuyoh (%u7530%u4E2D%u5341%u6D0B), Manta alfredi maldives, CC BY 2.0

When it comes to seeing mantas feeding on plankton at Hanifaru Bay, the best time to visit is the period from May to November. Literally, hundreds of mantas can be seen during this time and make for an unforgettable underwater spectacle.

Other marine inhabitants

Image Credit-Shiyam ElkCloner, Dharavandhoo Thila – Hanifaru Bay Sharks, CC BY-SA 3.0

Apart from manta rays, this underwater area is home to other species too including sting rays and whale sharks which add to the allure of Hanifaru Bay. Diving here is bound to be an experience you won’t soon forget.

Auburn Silver is a travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world. Google+

River Safari in Galle Sri Lanka

Boat safari on Bentota River | Img. Crdt : Jetwing Hotels

Apart from the beach bound excitement, visitors of the west coast of Sri Lanka may engage in boat safaris in the many rivers flowing into the Indian Ocean. This is usually a laid back boat ride ideal for bird watchers and nature lovers.

Where to find river safaris
The Bentota river is popular for these outings and is only about one hour away from Galle; a key tourist city along the west coast of the island. Thus visitors seeking accommodation in Galle boutique hotels or other luxury accommodation such as Jetwing Kurulubedda may drive down for a relaxed nature infused experience.

Prices
The Bentota River is used by most hotels and resorts in the area for jet skiing and other water sports. Boats are stacked in the riverbank can be hired by those wishing to explore the river and its mangroves. A one hour excurision will cost you about Rs1500.

What to expect
The southern side of the river is infested with dense mangrove plantations. This is a lush green canopy screening the warm sun rays. You may catch a glimpse of kingfishers, vibrant butterflies lurking about and even huge water monitors chilling under the sun if you are lucky.

Keep in mind
Tourist boats are usually supposed to have life jackets. Do not get on a boat without life jackets and make sure to fasten your jackets before leaving the bank.

Intrigued by history, art and food, Lavinia Woolf is a writer who is passionate about the extraordinary and writes of the exhilarating and enchanting. Google+

5 scuba diving tips

Scuba diving is one of the best ocean bound activities to engage in when you’re in Sri Lanka. Here are 5 things to keep in mind for a smooth diving experience.

Scuba Diving | Photo via Pixabay by joakant , CC0 Public Domain

Getting down
If you’re finding it a bit hard to stay under water with your diving equipment, fix your gaze towards the ocean bed, and slowly breathe out while imagining that your body is getting heavier. If you feel “floaty”, you are doing it right.

Always recheck your pressure gauge reading
This is often explained by diving schools or activity providers especially in the Passikuda, Unawatuna or Mirissa beach hotels such as the Esprit d’ici Hotel Mirissa. Anyway, if you miss it all you have to do is take three breaths off your regulator with your gear on while looking at your gauge. If the needle does not point away from the full position, then the air is on and if it bounces back up, the air is not on.

Trust your instincts
When in the water you are on your own. Therefore, if you feel uncomfortable diving deeper, don’t do it. Simply stick to your comfort zone and relax your mind.

Slow down
Diving into the pristine ocean can be exciting, however don’t rush or you’ll scare the fish away, so slow down and enjoy the view.

Keep a log
Keep a record of all your diving experiences to plan your next trip diligently. This is also a perfect way to re-visit your underwater adventures when you are old and grey.

Pushpitha Wijesinghe is an experienced independent freelance writer. He specializes in providing a wide variety of content and articles related to the travel hospitality industry.

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Watersport activities in Maldives -Exciting must-try water sports

Maldives is a heavenly beach paradise where there is less land and more sea and there’s something for everyone between the turquoise waters and the golden sun.

Parasailing in Maldives

Parasailing | Image Courtesy : By Badr Naseem (Parasailing) [CC BY-SA 2.0], via Wikimedia Commons

This unique water sport combines speed with the adrenaline pumping aspect of lifting you off the ground. Participants are strapped securely to a harness with one end fastened to a speed boat. The vessel pulls you on an awe-inspiring journey that provides breathtaking aerial views of the coastal landscapes below.

Kayaking, Windsurfing and More

In a country where water exceeds land, you can expect a range of water-sports. Consider staying in a Maldives resort such as the COMO Hotels & Resorts that offer facilities for enjoying the sea and sunny weather.

Surfing Paradise

Most locals spend endless hours surfing; it’s a way of life here. Surf buffs will benefit from the massive waves brought on by the southwest monsoon around the months of June to September

Diving in Maldives

Blessed with stunning marine and coral life, the Maldives is one of the best places for diving. As you explore the world beneath the waves, you will come across vivid corals of all shapes and sizes as well as fish species including angelfish, sweet lips, butterfly fish, barracudas and even sharks.

Caleb Falcon is a travel writer who specializes in writing content based on the many exciting world adventures that await intrepid travellers. Google+

Whale Watching in Mirissa -Have a Whale of a Time!

At up to 29.9 metres in length, the Blue Whale is said to be the largest animal to have ever existed in the world. Seeing these magnificent creatures is a must at least once in a lifetime. So head over to Mirissa in Sri Lanka, and feast your eyes on this glorious beast!

Where?

mirissa beach aerial view — Mirissa beach aerial | Photo by dronepicr , Flickr , (CC BY 2.0)

The coastal hamlet of Mirissa is tucked away in the south of Sri Lanka, in the Matara District. It’s close to three hours away from the Bandaranaike International Airport so you will have to come prepared to stay in Mirissa. Accommodation won’t be a problem as there are plenty of options ranging from budget hotels and hostels like those by Yoho Bed to even luxury resorts should you want to splurge a bit.

How?

Mirissa Whale Watching | Photo by kwan kwan , Flickr , (CC BY 2.0)

There are quite a number of whale watching tours available in Mirissa but do your research first, read up on reviews and find out what is best, because it’s very important that you go with a trusted service provider in order to avoid any scams or worst, accidents. The most trusted option would be to go with the Sri Lanka Navy, they offer tours that cost US$ 60 for foreigners (US$ 30 for kids). A typical tour would last for up to 4 hours.

What to Take?

Sunscreen! Make sure to apply it way before you set out. And take care to also take a hat and some sunnies. Since you’re gonna be stuck on the boat for four hours at sea, best to pack a few snacks too. Some tour agencies offer this as part of the package but it’s always best to take some food of your own. And most importantly, if you’re prone to be sick at sea be sure to take medication for it.

And Finally, What You’re Going to See!

Blue Whales

It’s said that the waters around Mirissa are rich in plankton, a kind of micro-organisms which the whales feed on. Because of this, marine biologists believe that there is a resident population of blue whales resulting in constant sightings, especially during the peak season between November to April.

Sperm Whales

and…Dolphins!

Mirissa,_whale_watching,_dolphins — Arian Zwegers, Mirissa, whale watching, dolphins (6782232766), CC BY 2.0

Catalina Forbes is a travel writer who bases her content on many thrilling escapades experienced across the world. Google+

Surfing in Ahangama

The tropical island of Sri Lanka; complete with soft sands and sunny beaches are the perfect setting for your island vacation. Ahangama is located about 20 minutes from this quiet town of Unawatuna, a popular tourist destination on the island, so if you’re staying at a hotel such as Cantaloupe Levels, you can easily get to Ahangama! With a number of options for a hotel in Unawatuna, you’ll be able to find one to suit your specific budget and style.

Most parts of Ahangama beach is known to be ideal for experienced or intermediate surfers as the waves are quite large and regular, but there are some parts of the beach which are perfect for beginners. With many surf schools and surfing camps around, you can get your beginners lessons before heading out to ride some amazing waves in Sri Lanka!

If you don’t have your board, there are plenty of surf rental spots around the golden shores where you can rent a good sturdy surf board to cruise the glittering waters of the Indian Ocean. When you’re done surfing, make sure to hydrate and fill your belly up with some island delights. King coconut is known to refresh and replenish instantly and is the best thing to indulge in after an exhausting day of paddling out to the big blue and riding the warm waves. With many restaurants in the area, you can also grab a quick bite to eat or make your way back to your hotel for some rest and relaxation.

The beaches in southern Sri Lanka are best known for being popular with surfers and snorkelers. Therefore if you’re looking for a relaxing activity after a day surfing, rent a pair of snorkels and explore the colourful variety of marine creatures swimming around the lively reefs in the south.

Caleb Falcon is a travel writer who specializes in writing content based on the many exciting world adventures that await intrepid travellers.

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Windsurfing in Maldives -It’s just you, the board, the sail, and the wind

Goldi64 at the German language Wikipedia, Wales Windsurfer, CC BY-SA 3.0

The Maldivian isles are by far one of the finest of holiday destinations to retire to either with family or your best mates. A range of leisure activities ranging from surfing, wakeboarding to even deep sea fishing can be enjoyed throughout one’s time here.

Blessed with warm, temperate waters and constant gusts of winds from all the right directions one could hardly conceive of a more appropriate environment to engage in windsurfing than the Maldives. The period between May and October is considered windsurfing season in the country as wind conditions pick up after the rains. With windsurfing, you catch the wind as you sail and glide across the lagoon. You have boards and sails on offer in Maldives, but you need to know your basics. Once you land in Maldives you will find a plethora of water sports centers that offer various services. Even the hotels will have very good facilities that will enable you to enjoy a memorable and safe time in the lapis lazuli waters. Check with the Maldives luxury resort you are staying in; some of these resorts such as the COMO Maalifushi, The Maldives have experts to will train you to master windsurfing. Windsurfing professioanls have different strategies and tips to stay balanced while in the activity. One-legged sailing is one strategy, which will shape up your fitness.

More experience thrill seekers engaged in windsurfing in Maldives may want to consider visiting this island between the months of October and May while beginners will find almost any time of the year ideal for this sport. May to October is considered the monsoon season so you can expect to find consistently strong winds that will propel you at great speeds.

Roland Lefevre is a travel writer who specializes in creating features on leisure as well as business travel destinations across the globe. Google+