Did you know that while the Maldives has over 1,000 small coral islands, 99% of the country is made up of water? Suffice it to say, there’s plenty to discover when you head beneath the waves though some escapades are truly unique, like those mentioned below!
whale-shark | img via pxfuel
Snorkel with Manta Rays & Whale Sharks
While there is diverse marine life to see, the chance to encounter majestic manta rays while snorkelling and observe them whirling in the water and feeding on plankton is truly magical. These excursions can be enjoyed at resorts like Kandolhu Maldives; from such private island properties, you can also go on snorkelling adventures to catch sight of harmless and huge whale sharks, the largest fish species on the planet!
Dive with Sharks
Home to over 20 species of sharks, this destination provides the perfect opportunity to get up close (well, not too close mind you!) to these stealthy marine species. Those going scuba diving, easily one of the most popular water sports in Maldives, in areas like the North Ari and South Ari Atolls can look to head to Hafza Thila or “Shark Point”; here, you have a chance to spot grey reef sharks, whitetip reef sharks and more.
Explore Wrecks
It’s not just Nemo, Dory and co. you can find in the underwater world of the Maldives, but intriguing wrecks too! Apart from offering quite an ethereal sight seemingly lost in time amidst the ocean, these vessels have also become a thriving home for coral and marine life which further add to their allure. Examples include the Fesdu Wreck, a former fishing trawler that is now full of coral growth and colourful denizens of the deep.
Go Night Diving
For a new thrill of diving in Maldives, you can head out on special excursions at night which give you a chance to enjoy the ‘nightlife’ of the ocean; you also get special fluorescent night dives to see phosphorescent plankton too. While you may not spot SpongeBob working the graveyard shift at Krusty Krab (shout out to season 2 episode 16!), you have a chance to encounter various other marine creatures.