Adventure In Maldives: Swim With Whale Sharks & Manta Rays

Activity Location: South Ari 

Activity duration: 3-4 hours (approx.)

Adventure In Maldives: Swim With Whale Sharks & Manta Rays is a fun activity for individuals and families alike. It is an activity that should be on every traveler's list when visiting the Maldives. The tours are conducted by experienced guides who prioritize the safety of their guests, making it an ideal adventure for swimmers of all skill levels.

Swimming with whale sharks in Maldives is an unforgettable experience that can be enjoyed in the crystal-clear waters of the Maldives. These gentle giants are the largest fish in the ocean and swimming alongside them is a true bucket-list experience.

Most tours start with a speedboat ride out to the open ocean, where the whale sharks and manta rays are known to congregate. Once the animals are spotted, participants are allowed to enter the water with a guide to swim alongside them. The tours are designed to be non-invasive and to have minimal impact on the marine environment.

The Maldives is home to one of the largest populations of whale sharks in the world, making it an ideal destination for those looking to swim with sharks and other magnificent creatures. Manta rays are also common in the Maldives, with some areas having resident populations year-round.

About the activity

• Adventure aquarium swimming with sharks is a popular thrilling activity in Maldives that can be booked as a tour through various tour operators.
• The tour usually includes pick-up and drop-off from the hotel or resort, a speedboat ride to the snorkeling location, and snorkeling equipment.
• The tour guides provide safety instructions and information about marine life and the ecosystem.
• Participants are taken to areas where whale sharks and manta rays are commonly found and are allowed to swim alongside them.
• The tour also usually includes a break for refreshments on a nearby island or sandbank.
• The duration of the tour typically ranges from 3-4 hours.
• It is recommended to wear comfortable swimwear, and bring sunscreen, a towel, and a waterproof camera.
• The cost of the tour varies depending on the tour operator and the inclusions, but it generally ranges from $80-$150 per person.

How to Reach

• By air: The closest airport to South Ari Atoll is Velana International Airport in Male, which receives international flights from various countries. From there, visitors can take a domestic flight or seaplane to the local airports in South Ari Atoll, which include Maamigili Airport and Dharavandhoo Airport.
• By sea: Visitors can also take a speedboat or ferry from Male or other nearby islands to reach South Ari Atoll. Some resorts in the area also offer private speedboat transfers for their guests.