8 days tour

7N Maldives Whale Shark Conservation Cruise

7N Maldives Whale Shark Conservation Cruise

This tour includes:

Accommodation

MV Felicity Double or twin cabins Single occupancy available at no additional cost

Meals

All meals - breakfast, lunch and dinner

Transport

All domestic transfers to and from airport

Guide

Secret Paradise Tour Leader Certified Emergency First Response Certified International Level 3 Life Guard

Others

Welcome drinks on arrival Tea and coffee (house coffee) Unlimiited water - bring a refillable water bottle Unlimited sunbathing and swimming Snorkeling equipment and guide Local Island Tours Sandbank visits (timings dependent on tide) Dingy or dhoni transfer to snorkeling points Music and movies library All Local Tax

Not included:

Insurance

Insurance

Others

Alcoholic beverages available on board. Payable in USD cash at end of trip

Flights

International Flight

Start planning your experience

Itinerary of your trip 7N Maldives Whale Shark Conservation Cruise

  • Day 1 Arrival & Meet Save The Beach
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Arrival & Meet Save The Beach

      Upon arriving in the Maldives you will be met by your tour leader at Male International Airport and board the MV Felicity. After settling in, set off for Maafushi in South Male Atoll where you will have your first Maldives underwater encounter and enjoy sunset from a sandbank! Your tour leader will provide a safety briefing on responsible snorkeling and act as your โ€˜spotterโ€™ pointing out marine life that may not have caught your eye. Coral reefs are fragile ecosystems so learning how to snorkel responsibly can help minimize your impact on the marine environment and protect the delicate balance of marine life.


      In the evening, a presentation by Save the Beach, a local NGO focuses on the vital role of coral reefs, their biodiversity, and the threats they face due to climate change, pollution, and human activities. The Maldives is rich in marine life but unfortunately, our marine life is under threat because of activities carried out by us humans. Save the Beach will highlight the harmful practices that are pushing the balance in the eco system and what we can do to limit the impact.


  • Day 2 Coral Nursery And Sea Grass Snorkeling
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Coral Nursery And Sea Grass Snorkeling

      Today begins with a visit to Maafushi, where you have the opportunity to explore a coral rehabilitation site and witness coral propagation. This will underpin the importance of coral reef restoration and the positive impact these conservation efforts can have on island nations.


      We also snorkel the seagrass beds and discover their importance to the ecosystem. Despite being one of the most valuable ecosystems on the planet, sea grass is considered unsightly, and is often deliberately removed.  Gain insights into the interconnectedness of seagrass meadows, coral reefs, and the diverse marine life they support.


      Back on board Felicity for lunch, there is time for afternoon snorkeling before we cruise further south through South Male Atoll.


  • Day 3 Cruise To South Ari, Local Island Visit, Mwsrp Presentation
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Cruise To South Ari, Local Island Visit, Mwsrp Presentation

      As the sun rises we begin our cruise to South Ari Atoll, known for its exceptional snorkeling opportunities. 

      There will be two snorkeling opportunities today to observe marine and to compare the coral reefs with those experienced in South Male Atoll.

      Late afternoon a visit to the local island of Dhangethi providing a taste of local culture and Maldivian cuisine. Enjoy traditional Maldivian snacks known locally as โ€™hedikaaโ€™.


      Before dinner, Maldives Whale Shark Research Project (MWSRP) talk about the conservation of whale sharks preparing you for our whale shark safari tomorrow! Learn about the biology and behavior of whale sharks, ongoing research efforts, and the importance of protecting these gentle giants. 


  • Day 4 Search For Whale Sharks To Complete Data Capture
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Search For Whale Sharks To Complete Data Capture

      Today marks the highlight of the itinerary with a dedicated whale shark safari. South Ari Atoll is well known for the possibility of encountering whale sharks particularly on the reefs behind Dhigurah. There is only one way we can spot them and thatโ€™s the old fashioned way of being out on the boat and looking! We may see 2 or 3 sharks in half an hour or maybe only one for the whole time we are searching, but the unpredictability all adds to the excitement!  


      When we do spot them, following the whale shark code of conduct we will snorkel alongside them. A truly magical experience. As part of the data capture process, assist the MWSRP team in collecting valuable information about the whale sharks, such as size, behavior, and markings. This hands-on experience contributes directly to their ongoing research efforts.


      In the afternoon, we visit an uninhabited island. As you step onto its shores, you will feel like an intrepid explorer, discovering a place that feels like it belongs only to you. The islandโ€™s beaches will invite you to wander and explore their hidden corners. Unfortunately, plastic is often not hidden and we will spend time completing a beach clean-up activity, ensuring we leave a positive mark on the island.


      This evening your Tour Leader will introduce you to the work of the Manta Trust. Providing an insight into their environmental monitoring and manta ray studies preparing you for our snorkeling tomorrow, when if conditions are right we may be lucky enough to spot a manta ray!


  • Day 5 Search For Manta Rays To Complete Data Capture
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Search For Manta Rays To Complete Data Capture

      We start cruising early morning to Rangali Madivaru (manta point) where we will snorkel before breakfast. Whilst never a guarantee we may be lucky enough to encounter manta rays and will follow the manta ray code of conduct if we are lucky enough to encounter them. Following breakfast we venture on another whale shark safari and data capture session, building upon the experiences of yesterday. 


      Late afternoon, immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the tropical vegetation on the local island of Dhigurah. Learn about the forest ecosystem and the important role vegetation plays in the Maldives. Be ready to get hot and sweaty but your reward will be a beautiful sunset and if you wish a refreshing dip in the ocean.


      The day concludes with a special BBQ beach dinner, under the stars.


  • Day 6 Snorkeling & Cruising
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Snorkeling & Cruising

      We start our cruise back towards Male today. Two snorkeling activities provide an opportunity to observe different coral reef formations, encounter a variety of fish species, and appreciate the intricate balance of these underwater ecosystems.


      Late afternoon we visit the local island of Gulhi. This tiny quiet islandโ€™s main economy is fishing and it is also home to the oldest dry dock boat yard in the Maldives. Stand in awe at the size of the boats under renovation in the boat yard, chat with the ladies sweeping the streets and finally refresh yourself with a cool Kurumba (coconut). 


      In the evening, a Maldivian theme night is organized on board, featuring a Bodu Beru musical performance, showcasing traditional Maldivian music and dance. This cultural immersion further deepens participantsโ€™ understanding of the Maldivian culture and enhances their overall learning experience.


  • Day 7 Snorkeling & Villimale Visit
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Snorkeling & Villimale Visit

      We start the day with another snorkeling session, allowing you to further explore the marine life and habitats of the Maldives. Keep your eyes open for turtles, sharks and rays you never know what may be in the blue!


      On route to Hulhumale we visit Villimale, home of Save the Beach where we witness how the broader socio-economic factors and development is affecting marine conservation local communities.




  • Day 8 Goodbye Maldives!
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Goodbye Maldives!

      Breakfast on board following which you will be transferred back to Maleโ€™ airport in time for your departure flight.  

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Experience Style

Experience Style

Mixed

There will be challenging activities such as hiking, biking, canyoning and trekking, but youโ€™re also going to have other means of transportation and relaxed moments to just chill.

Accomodation level

Accomodation level

Medium

This accommodation includes essential services like a hot shower, electricity, and a nice and comfy bed.

Experience Type

Experience Type

Small Group

Youโ€™ll be accompanied by a small group of travelers just like you.

Physical Rating

Physical Rating

Basic

Almost everyone is fit for these activities. Every hike or physical exercise last less than 30 minutes, such as paragliding and horseback riding. Please ask about specific conditions.

Age range

Age range

Min: 12 / Max: 99

Age range allowed for this experience.

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