Marine Wildlife of the Maldives

Name: Marine Wildlife of the Maldives
Brand: Exodus
Rating: 4.7 (19 reviews)

19 reviews

Activity

Wildlife

Overview

Navigate the Indian Ocean on a traditional sailboat for an unforgettable adventure in paradise

Awake to the sun rising over the azure ocean and snorkel areas of abundant marine life including manta rays, whale sharks, turtles (green, hawksbill and olive ridley), plus bottlenose and spinner dolphins. Visit unspoiled islands by day and by night relax on deck gazing at the millions of stars above. A traditionally crafted sailboat is the perfect way to experience the magic of the Maldives.

Key Information

Trip Code: WOY
Ways to Travel: Guided Group
Countries: Maldives
Carbon Footprint: 85kg CO2e per person per day

What's Included

All meals included on board
All accommodation
All transport and listed activities
Tour leader throughout
Group arrival and departure transfers available

Highlights

Spend six nights on a sailboat in the Maldives
Discover unspoiled islands, pristine beaches and idyllic atolls
Snorkel with whale sharks, sea turtles and manta rays (in season)
Full-day whale shark safari included

Itinerary

First Destination: Malé Velana International Airport
Next Destination: Malé Velana International Airport

Meals included:Dinner, Lunch

Meals included:Breakfast, Dinner, Lunch

Meals included:Breakfast, Dinner, Lunch

Meals included:Breakfast, Dinner, Lunch

Meals included:Breakfast, Dinner, Lunch

Meals included:Breakfast, Dinner, Lunch

Meals included:Breakfast

First Destination: Malé Velana International Airport
Next Destination: Malé Velana International Airport

Following a short introductory briefing, we transfer by dhoni (a traditional boat) to board the MV Felicity by midday, our home for the next six days, arriving in time for a light lunch. Today we cruise south to Guraidhoo in the South Malé Atoll. During this time, you can do as you please: relax on the sundeck, sit in the shade of the sun canopy and watch the beautiful Maldives pass and maybe catch sight of dolphins. Our crew will try to find an opportunity for you to have your first snorkelling excursion this afternoon. If the islands of the Maldives are beautiful, what lies under the water is a veritable wonder of nature. The reefs that encircle the islands and atolls are just as abundant in their variety of coral as the marine creatures that live in and around them. This, coupled with the amazingly clear water, make snorkelling here an experience you never forget.

Meals included:Lunch, Dinner

Our day begins with a snorkel at a reef on the eastern edge of the atoll, a shallow but dense coral garden where turtles are regular visitors. Alongside them, we’re likely to see boxfish, porcupinefish and neat shoals of bannerfish.

Later, we sail (approximately 2hr 30min) to the Ari Atoll, cruising south to Dhangethi. Depending on the conditions, we may pause for another snorkel along the way, perhaps catching sight of a reef alive with butterflyfish and parrotfish.

On arrival, we’re welcomed ashore with a traditional Maldivian tea. As the sun sets, your tour leader introduces the Maldives Whale Shark Research Programme (MWSRP) and explains the whale shark code of conduct – a briefing that helps ensure tomorrow’s encounter is a positive experience for both you and the world’s largest fish.

Meals included:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

We set off aboard our dhoni, scanning the ocean surface for signs of a whale shark, as we cruise in the South Ari Marine Protected Area. Some days we may encounter one or two within half an hour; on others, the search lasts longer. That unpredictability, though, is part of the thrill.

When we’re fortunate enough to find them, there’s the extraordinary chance to snorkel alongside them. Whale sharks can move surprisingly fast, so you might have to kick a little harder to keep up. Bring an underwater camera if you’d like to join the photo-identification effort, contributing to valuable ongoing research into individual whale shark movements and behaviour.

Back on board this evening, we connect virtually with a representative from the Maldives Whale Shark Research Programme. They share fascinating insights into whale shark biology and explain how ID work helps protect the species. There’s also time for questions – and perhaps to compare a few of today’s snapshots with the experts’ database.

Meals included:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today we go in search of whale sharks once more; if the time of year is right (December to March), we may also encounter manta rays. Following lunch, we are taken to one of the best snorkelling sites in this area where we may be fortunate to encounter turtles among the colourful corals and fish. The water conditions and currents play an important role in the choice of snorkel sites. However, we will likely see fish species such as dogtooth tuna, trevallies, jacks, sweetlips, butterfly fish, wahoo and fusiliers. When not in the water, the day is one for relaxation on our boat.

Meals included:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

On departures between February and April, we cruise to Madivaru, a protected marine area with two cleaning stations where we hope to encounter manta rays. With a radio network between dive and cruising vessels, our guide and crew do their best to encounter manta rays; should we not be lucky enough, further snorkelling opportunities to encounter sharks, turtles, eels, octopus and rays will be offered. Out of season, it is still possible to encounter solitary manta rays and we also make the most of a final opportunity to encounter whale sharks.

This afternoon, we start our cruise northwards.

Meals included:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Cruise north before we anchor in the lagoon off the island of Hulhumalé in the late afternoon. This morning, there is a final chance to snorkel these tropical waters and, while cruising, we can do as we please: relax on the sundeck, sit in the shade of the sun canopy or just watch the beauty of the Maldives pass. Once anchored in Hulhumalé lagoon, there is an optional walking tour of Malé for those who wish to stretch their legs! This evening, a presentation provides an overview of the Maldives marine environment and the work undertaken by local NGOs to protect it for the future.

Meals included:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

After a light breakfast, the group is transferred this morning back to Malé International Airport, where we begin our return journeys home.

Meals included:Breakfast

Dates & Prices

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Call us on 1 844 462 4317

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Accommodation

Akoya Pearl

Marine Wildlife of the Maldives

We sail the Indian Ocean on the Akoya Pearl. It has five comfortable cabins accommodating 10 guests in a mix of twin and double rooms. The sundeck has sunbeds and loungers, the ideal place to relax with the group as you soak up the sun and relive the day’s adventures. The boat also has a bar serving beer, wine, cocktails and spirits, which you can enjoy in the indoor and outdoor lounge areas, plus there’s a dining area for group meals.

Worth knowing

We strongly recommend booking early to secure the room of your choice.
If you are a very light sleeper, we recommend earplugs.
A single supplement is available but there is very limited availability.
There’s a ‘no shoe’ policy on board.
If you require pre- or post-tour accommodation, please request at the time of booking. Late requests, particularly within 60 days before departure, and especially during high season (December to the end of April) may not be possible as accommodation is limited with properties having limited numbers of rooms.

Essential Information

This trip is rated Activity Level 2 (Easy & Moderate) with a Wildlife Rating of Four. Visit our Activity Level Guidelines page for more on our trip gradings or our Wildlife Holidays page for more on our Wildlife Ratings. If you have any queries about the difficulty of the trip please do not hesitate to contact us.

Suitability: This is predominantly a marine adventure. No certifications are necessary, but you should be comfortable in the water and a strong swimmer with the ability to swim unaided to participate in the ocean excursions. We take no health and safety risks and our expert staff monitor everyone’s ability and ocean conditions to take appropriate measures for a wonderful time here.

Climate: The Maldives is tropical, which means it can get very hot and humid and you should be prepared for this. The Maldives can experience strong currents, even on the calmest of days and currents may change during a snorkelling activity. It is always possible we may encounter the occasional day of rough seas and therefore an ability to swim is required.

Itinerary: The itinerary listed is only a guideline and may be changed based on sightings to maximise the wildlife-viewing experience. Scuba diving is not available on this tour.

Snorkelling

Getting out of the water and back onto the boat involves a boat ladder. Snorkelling trips are generally for a minimum of 45 minutes in open water. This time is approximate and may be shorter due to ocean conditions or longer due to wildlife encounters. There is a support boat and always the option to get out of the water sooner.
There is a limited selection of snorkelling equipment available on board. However, we strongly recommend bringing your own to ensure comfort and fit. If you opt to use the snorkel equipment provided, you must keep the same equipment for the whole trip and not swap/share.
A new government policy strengthens protection for whale sharks, limiting the number of boats and people that can be in the water during an encounter and establishing a maximum time period of 15 minutes for each encounter. The introduction of rangers within SAMPA (the South Ari Marine Protected Area) will also support the enforcement of these regulations, ensuring a positive encounter for both whale sharks and tourists.

Key information

Start location: Arrivals hall in Malé Velana International Airport (MLE)
Arrival time: Before 12.30pm on Day 1

Getting to the boat

The start location for this tour is the arrivals hall of Malé Velana International Airport. Everyone is required to be there on Day 1 before 12.30pm; therefore, your flight must arrive into the airport no later than 11.30am, which gives you enough time to clear immigration and meet your group and tour leader. Groups are met by the tour leader in the arrivals hall and then transferred by dhoni from the airport jetty to board the boat in time for a 1pm departure.

If you would like further information on joining this trip, please speak to your sales representative.

Catching your return flight

On departure day, all group members are transferred back to Malé Velana International Airport where the trip ends. The transfer back to the airport is in line with the three-hour check-in window of a chosen flight route to London, UK.

For those with longer transit periods, there is a lounge at the domestic terminal, which can be used for six hours, including food and beverages, wifi and bathroom facilities.

Payment for use (US$40) is made on the day directly to the reception desk. Luggage storage is available at the international airport for US$7 per item for up to 24 hours for those who may wish to explore Malé independently. There are also several eateries and seating areas at the airport. Day-use rooms can be arranged in Hulhumale, subject to availability.

Maldives

Travellers from most countries normally receive a tourist visa on arrival in the Maldives, provided they meet the entry requirements, which can be found at www.immigration.gov.mv/tourist-visa. Please note, visa requirements often change and it is your responsibility to obtain any required visas for this trip. Therefore, we recommend that you check with the nearest embassy or consulate of your chosen destination(s), including any countries you may be transiting or transferring through.

Some local governments provide guidance on what visas their citizens need. To help, we’ve gathered a selection of useful links below.

Maldives Traveller Declaration Form
All travellers are required to submit a Traveller Declaration Form (IMUGA) within 96 hours before their flight arrival in the Maldives. It is free to complete and can be filled on the official IMUGA portal. When completing the form, you are required to select all the accommodations, including vessels, you are using in the Maldives. You should carry a copy of your Exodus Adventure Travels invoice, which includes the date of first travel, duration of stay, exit date and accommodation (as well as duration), which may be required to present upon arrival at Maldives Immigration.

Breakfast, lunch, dinner and afternoon snacks are all included on board.

Traditional Maldivian cuisine is based around fish (tuna), chilli and coconuts. White rice and roshi (a flour-based flatbread) are also staples. Fish is normally smoked, fired, barbecued or roasted. Pork products are strictly prohibited, beef and seafood is not served on-board. Typical ingredients used widely in dishes and served on board include onion, ginger, garlic, lemon and spices.

Menus include European and Maldivian dishes, freshly prepared on board by our chefs who do their best to cater for most dietary requirements.

The indoor saloon bar offers a wide choice of soft drinks, wine, beer and spirits to purchase. Please note, no alcohol is allowed on the islands – it is only permitted in the resorts and on the boats.

Please discuss any dietary requirements with your sales representative at the time of booking.

With a tropical climate, plenty of sunshine and temperatures around 30C (86F) throughout the year, there is never a bad time to visit the Maldives. The Maldives has two distinct seasons: dry season (northeast monsoon) from January to March and the wet season (southwest monsoon) from mid-May to November.

The Maldives covers a huge geographical area, weather can be sporadic and localised and with weather patterns changing globally, historical averages are less reliable.

For departures between May and October, temperatures are still warm, but rain showers are more likely, but even during this period there are also usually long spells of bright sunshine!

The changeover months between the two monsoon seasons (May and October/November) are more likely to offer the most unsettled weather and strong winds.

At any time of year, although it is more probable between May and October, the channels between each atoll can experience big, choppy waves if the weather is not favourable.

As the Maldives is situated so close to the equator, it is possible to burn even on a cloudy day and sunscreen should be applied as a matter of course.

As a certified B Corp, we’re on a mission to improve our social and environmental impact across all our adventures.

We do this through our innovative Thriving Nature, Thriving People plan.

This ‘nature positive’ approach is designed to help nature and communities thrive in harmony through practical solutions, such as reducing carbon and waste on our trips, supporting conservation projects through the Exodus Adventure Travels Foundation, and rewilding 100 square metres for every Exodus traveller.

TNTP Moments

You’ll also find Thriving Nature, Thriving People moments across our trips. These experiences are often a highlight of your adventure, while also benefiting the natural world or local communities.

On this trip, we:

Join a whale shark safari with the Maldives Whale Shark Research Programme to learn about research and conservation protecting this endangered species.

Reviews

Add new review

Lizzie Bailey

Added April 2024

Incredible trip, wildlife and people

Absolutely loved this trip - scenery and wildlife was incredible and Zaff and the crew went all out to make it one of the best weeks of our lives

Most Inspirational Moment

Swimming with three whale sharks in 30 mins, the manta rays at the cleaning station - but in general the underwater life is fantastic

Thoughts on Group Leader

Zaff was great, he lifts up those around him. At the beginning he told us he would try and give us the best week of our lives which was a great start! He's a charismatic and open guy who taught us a lot about the Maldives outsude of the honeymoon resort experience. I felt we got a much more authentic experience - visiting local islands, hearing about life there. We watched documentaries and also had speakers from NGOs. In the water he is a graceful swimmer who makes everyone feel safe. He worked hard alongside the other excellent members of the crew to make sure we saw as much as possible but not at the expense of the welfare of the animals or the reefs. Big shout out as well to our other snorkeling / diving companions Shafi and Hussein!

Advice for Potential Travellers

Just do it! The boat is not a 5 star resort but the guys kept the boat clean and changed bins in the bathroom twice a day, and made up the rooms morning and evening. The Sri Lankan chef and waiter worked very hard - nothing was too much trouble - and I loved the exciting array of dishes we got at every meal. You definitely need a rash vest if you are Caucasian plus a factor 50 sunblock or you will burn.

Suggestions

Thankyou fir a great trip, hope to book more tours with Exodus.

Lyndsey Bainton

Added February 2024

Great manta experiences

A very enjoyable week on the Felicity in the Maldives snorkelling, diving, island visits, a couple of very interesting talks and a fun evening of entertainment.

Most Inspirational Moment

Diving and snorkelling with mantas, up very close and playful.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Zaff was very enthusiastic and tried very hard to make it a great trip for everyone.

Advice for Potential Travellers

We spent 3 lengthy sessions in our dhoni over 2 days searching for whale sharks and found none. There are alot of boats looking for manta and whale sharks and at times sightings are a scrum. If you are a diver, it is worth taking the opportunity to dive. The coral isn't what it used to be but there are lots of fish varieties, hawksbill turtles, sharks. Getting up so close to the mantas for so long was very special. You don't need to bring any equipment, it is all supplied. If you do pack your own don't bother bringing short fins, they are not suitable. If you want mobile coverage during the week buy a pre-paid sim at the airport. If you don't do that the captain will provide wifi on the last day so you can do the Maldives exit form and checkin online. I am not a great sailor but the sea conditions were not too uncomfortable, the worst times are the channel crossings at the beginning and end of the trip. The transfer to the Felicity on arrival day is at 12pmish. If you arrive earlier, you will be taken to a waiting area whist the group gathers and the boat is got ready. I had to hunt for a fair while to find Zaff and the Exodus sign at arrivals so keep looking.

Suggestions

The crew are great, very helpful and they look after you well. The food is good although there was alot of chicken and tuna. We had people with food intolerances which the boat chef managed. The Felicity is characterful but not luxurious.

Julie Graham

Added February 2024

Crew of the Felicity were brilliant.

Lovely way to explore the Maldives though I felt the chances of seeing let alone swimming with Whale Sharks was exaggerated

Most Inspirational Moment

Swimming with Manta Rays

Thoughts on Group Leader

Saf is a fun person to be around. He has boundless energy.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Be prepared for hours of whale shark hunting on the Dhoni

Suggestions

Overall was a great trip and we did see plenty of marine wildlife. Mantas, turtles, shark, dolphins and thousands of beautiful fish.

Ian Grover

Added February 2024

A lovely week onboard a boat in the Maldives

MV Felicity is a comfortable old Turkish Gulet. The trip had lots of snorkeling in clear warm water. The reefs have lots of colourful fish, and you get a chance to see the Manta Rays, Reef Sharks, Turtles and if you are lucky the Whale Sharks. The food was amazing,...

Most Inspirational Moment

Snorkeling with the gentle Manta Rays, who seemed to want to interact with us.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Despite having a tooth infection, which was obviously painful, Zak remained professional, friendly and helpful and ensured the trip went smoothly. Explaining each days activity, and especially about respecting the wildlife and whale sharks. We had good encounters that were mainly just our boat and us.

Advice for Potential Travellers

The cabins are comfortable. There is storage under the beds. Very little in the way of hanging and drawers but then you dont need many clothes. You live in swim suits and shorts. Hanging space to dry stuff on the deck. There are some very early starts to avoid the crowds. Seeing the reefs and colourful fish are a given. We saw lots of Manta, reef sharks and a few turtles. Dont expect to see lots of whale sharks. We only saw 1, and that was brief, on the whole trip. There is a lot of chaos around the whale shark area when all the day boats are about. Exodus ensure we stay out of harms way if its very busy. You will not get in the water if there are lots of people in the water. This could mean missing the whale shark, but we would prefer that to either harassing the whale shark, or getting hurt in the mass of people and boats. Take ear plugs if you are a light sleeper as the aircon and fans needed to keep the rooms cool are noisy.

Suggestions

Ensure the required online forms for Male are completed before arriving at airport!!

Susan McCabe

Added January 2024

Wildlife

This trip was amazing, and our group was so lucky and i felt privileged to see so many wonderful , amazing animals on this trip, Manta Rays, Feather Sting Rays, Turtles, Spinner Dolphines, Whale Shark, black tip sharks, Nurse Sharks and flying fish - AMAZING. I would like to highlight...

Most Inspirational Moment

All wildlife - out of this world - amazing .

Thoughts on Group Leader

Engaging and supportive

Advice for Potential Travellers

UV top, and maybe a long sleeve if available. Sports camera for underwater filming a must. take your sea legs with you, as the crossing can be a little rocky at times - channel crossing even lost the support dinghy for a short time until recovered by the snorkel boat. You will need to complete a traveller declaration - Maldives immigration on departure from UK & Maldives - save a screen shot with QR Code for customs.

Suggestions

On arrival at the airport - Maldives, the flight arrived on time, and there was no representative from EXODUS to be seen, felt a little nervous as there was no contact number to speak to on arrival. The flight was long and i was tired and luckily i had seen another couple on the flight i noticed were Exodus. from 0845 until 12 noon local we were waiting around until the boat connection was available. this was disappointing.

Lesley Fysh

Added March 2022

Awesome and amazing

I actually did this trip 4 years ago, but it was even better this time. We had excellent viewings of whale sharks and manta rays over 2 days focused on finding these. Our final snorkel on the last day as with stingrays and that was a whole new experience for...

Most Inspirational Moment

There were many, but I will choose one. Just 4 of us had gone for an extra whale shark search, and one was spotted. I jumped in ahead of it, and it came right towards me. It swam slowly under me and it was so clear in the beautiful blue water. I felt like it was just the 2 of us in the water. I followed it for a while until it dived.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Zav was brilliant. He was funny and entertaining. Not all of the group were confident in all environments and he looked after them and ensured that they got the best experience possible.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Bring several swimming costumes and ensure you have something like swim shorts as well as a rash vest/ other top as the top of your legs are as likely to burn as back and shoulders. I learned this many years ago.

Pete Das

Added March 2020

An amazing boat trip in the Maldives

An amazing tour during which we were lucky enough to snorkel with turtles, dozens of spinner dolphins, huge manta rays, a whale shark on two days, eagle and sting rays, moray eels, reef sharks and of course a wide variety of numerous reef fish large and small. We were all...

Most Inspirational Moment

Snorkelling with five manta rays which were feeding in the water beneath us, flying/swimming gracefully in formation, spiralling and going round in small circles near the sea bed. We were able to easily keep up with them for about half an hour. An enormous manta ray joined the loose group for a while before disappearing into the plankton haze. Visibility was surprisingly good, given the plankton, and we able to duck dive a few metres to get clearer photos. Swimming above and briefly alongside a whale shark with only our group present in the water on our second encounter with it, was also magical. We were lucky to see several whale sharks at night pass very close by at the surface by the stern illuminated by a powerful light used to attract small fish eaten by the whale sharks.

Thoughts on Group Leader

UB (Ubai) was personable, had an easy and infectious laugh and who “got” the English sense of humour, looked after all members of the group very well, and quietly and efficiently ensured that everyone was happy and that everything ran smoothly and without drama.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Practise snorkelling and duck diving, go on a course if you can, it will pay dividends when it comes to getting closer to the wildlife underwater. Although snorkelling gear is available on the boat, take your own mask (and fins ) to ensure a comfortable fit. Take a camera suitable for underwater photography and practise with it before you go. A rash vest, preferably but not essentially a thermal one (see on Amazon), is really useful for up-to one hour plus snorkelling sessions. Take along some luck with you to help you find plenty of all the creatures you want to see.

Suggestions

Our first encounter with the whale shark felt rather uncomfortable at times, having to swim along with more than fifty other snorkellers , although the whale shark itself seemed unperturbed and continued to swim along on its way. On our encounter the next day we were the only ones in the water. There was, as expected, a lot of dead coral around, though there were also plenty of signs of recovery. I should thoroughly recommend this trip.

Helen Plater

Added April 2019

You can be single and do the Maldives without feeling like the odd one out!

From day one you are part of the Felicity family. From being welcomed on board and shown your surprisingly comfy cabin, to the last breakfast on board, you are looked after and made to feel so welcome, you will not want to leave. Captain Shafy, Guide Kamey And all the...

Most Inspirational Moment

Swimming for an hour and 10 minutes with Fernando the 8 metre long Whale Shark has to be the most inspirational part of my trip. Scuba diving after a 20 year break from it felt daunting until Captain Shafy took charge. His patience, confidence and expertise was inspiring. This too was an experience I’ll cherish.

Thoughts on Group Leader

The group leader Kamey has very good English and navigates you through you Maldives experience with his laid back charm. Laid back, but hard working! On snorkelling trips he does his best to get everyone engaged in their surroundings. From identifying species to sorting your camera problems - he can do it.

Advice for Potential Travellers

You need to be able to swim for this trip, and the fitter you are the more you will get out of it. Having said that there is plenty of opportunity for chilling out on deck with a good book. Surprisingly spacious, you can find your own space on the Felicity should you so desire some time to yourself. Don’t pack much. Rash vest, sunscreen, 2 lots of swimwear (one on, one drying), flip flops for shore excursions, sun glasses and hat are a must. If your thinking of getting a waterproof camera - do! It’s great fun and they will help you with it! If you don’t sleep on airplanes go a night early and stay in a hotel in Male to gather yourself before your trip (it’s well worth it).

Suggestions

You and your belongings are safe on board. There aren’t any safes but you don’t need one. I didn’t even lock my cabin door. The food on board was outstanding- you are left wondering how do they do that on a boat. There was a vegetarian and a celiac in our group and their food looked as good as, if not better than everyone else’s! Nothing was too much trouble. There are so many places to see in the world, but the Felicity in the Maldives will get another visit.

JEAN WOOD

Added March 2019

SATISFACTION GUARANTEED: EVERY DAY IS EPIC.

This was a magical ‘out of this world’ adventure that went way beyond my wildest dreams. Dive in - a spectacular tropical paradise awaits below and above the warm turquoise water. It was incredibly spine-tingling getting up unbelievably close to whale sharks, manta rays, turtles, eagle rays, dolphins, sharks and...

Most Inspirational Moment

Swimming along beside ‘Fernando’, a magnificent 7.2m long whale shark.

Thoughts on Group Leader

KAMEY is THE BEST, the finished article, the ‘real deal’. He is perfect in this role - going the 'extra mile’ at every opportunity to make this the trip of a lifetime for the entire group.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Book it!

Suggestions

Spend at least 1 night on deck gazing up at the stars and listening to the waves as you drift off. It is so therapeutic.

Betsie Webster

Added February 2019

Don't Think About It ...Do It !!

Just stunning :0 One of the best holidays I have had and just what I needed to de-stress Wanting to visit the Maldives and travelling on my own this is a fabulous way of seeing it As soon as you step out of the airport ...there it is ! absolutely...

Most Inspirational Moment

Inspirational ....all of it !! We managed to get an private showing of a whale shark after most of the other boats had gone :) Utterly mind blowing and blissful also the delight of watching the manta rays gliding around so elegantly. I have dived in the red sea and THIS knocks spots of it !! Some of the snorkels were like swimming through an aquarium and overall what we didn't see isn't worth mentioning quite a lot of it due to the leader Kamay and Shafy (Captain) and also Oubi pointing things out to us that we could of easily missed The two presentations were interesting and great to hear such work is being done to preserve the wildlife and the corals

Thoughts on Group Leader

Fabulous !! I thought he was warm, professional, informative and funny. He clearly is passionate about what he does but with a relaxed attitude I'm envious of his office :) Overall everyone were friendly attentive and a total pleasure to be around Let's put it this way I didn't want to come home !!

Advice for Potential Travellers

It will help to be a reasonable swimmer and wearing a rash vest or UV suit is helpful to prevent from getting burnt also giving you a bit of warmth. Don't get me wrong the sea is warm but if your doing a drift snorkel you can still get chilly

Suggestions

If you want a holiday to kick back and relax this is the one for you The boat is a good size with plenty of covered space and uncovered for this who want to get that tan It is a great way to visit the Maldives at least our island (the boat) moved around to different places rather that being stuck on one island !! I would do it again in a heartbeat !!

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Marine Wildlife of the Maldives

Activity Level

Comfort Level

Activity

Overview

Navigate the Indian Ocean on a traditional sailboat for an unforgettable adventure in paradise

Key Information

What's Included

Highlights

Itinerary

Dates & Prices

Skip the hassle: We’ll handle your trip from start to finish, with competitive flight prices, dates that suit you, 24-hour support, loyalty discounts, and peace of mind for delays or disruption.

Your Group, Your Adventure

Accommodation

Akoya Pearl

Essential Information

Key information

Getting to the boat

Catching your return flight

Maldives

Reviews

Incredible trip, wildlife and people

Most Inspirational Moment

Thoughts on Group Leader

Advice for Potential Travellers

Suggestions

Great manta experiences

Most Inspirational Moment

Thoughts on Group Leader

Advice for Potential Travellers

Suggestions

Crew of the Felicity were brilliant.

Most Inspirational Moment

Thoughts on Group Leader

Advice for Potential Travellers

Suggestions

A lovely week onboard a boat in the Maldives

Most Inspirational Moment

Thoughts on Group Leader

Advice for Potential Travellers

Suggestions

Wildlife

Most Inspirational Moment

Thoughts on Group Leader

Advice for Potential Travellers

Suggestions

Awesome and amazing

Most Inspirational Moment

Thoughts on Group Leader

Advice for Potential Travellers

An amazing boat trip in the Maldives

Most Inspirational Moment

Thoughts on Group Leader

Advice for Potential Travellers

Suggestions

You can be single and do the Maldives without feeling like the odd one out!

Most Inspirational Moment

Thoughts on Group Leader

Advice for Potential Travellers

Suggestions

SATISFACTION GUARANTEED: EVERY DAY IS EPIC.

Most Inspirational Moment

Thoughts on Group Leader

Advice for Potential Travellers

Suggestions

Don't Think About It ...Do It !!

Most Inspirational Moment

Thoughts on Group Leader

Advice for Potential Travellers

Suggestions

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