Compare Marine Wildlife of the Maldives by Exodus Travels vs All-Inclusive Maldives: Water Bungalow Stay by Great Value Vacations

Day 1 Start Malé International Airport; board the Felicity; cruise through the South Malé Atoll

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. Accommodation: MV Felicity

Day 2 Turtle snorkelling safari in South Malé Atoll; cross into Ari Atoll

This morning, our first stop is a reef on the east side of the atoll, which offers the strong possibility of several turtle sightings. The reef is shallow but dense with corals that provide turtles with an abundant food source. As with all Maldivian reefs, there is also plenty of fish to observe including box fish, porcupine fish and schools of banner fish. For the remainder of the day, we cross into the Ari Atoll and head south towards the island of Dhangethi. Dependent on the sailing conditions and time, we may have the opportunity this afternoon for a further snorkel trip before visiting Dhangethi, where we have a traditional Maldivian afternoon tea. Dhangethi is a typical Maldivian fishing island with an interesting story concerning the moon and a Maldives sultan! Accommodation: MV Felicity

Day 3 Full-day whale shark safari with the Maldives Whale Shark Research Programme

Today a representative from the Maldives Whale Shark Research Project Team or a local marine biologist, will share their knowledge about these magnificent creatures and how identification is made. Once we set out on our dhoni safari adventure, it is a test of patience as we scan the surface of the ocean for the sign of a whale shark shadow, as we slowly cruise within the 45km area of South Ari Marine Protected Area (SAMPA). We may see one or two whale sharks in 30 minutes; alternatively, given that they are wild creatures in their natural habitat, we may not encounter one for the whole time we are searching. However, the unpredictability adds to the excitement and, if we do spot them, we can snorkel alongside them, a truly magical experience. Whale sharks can, at times, swim very quickly – so you may need to work hard to keep up. Accommodation: MV Felicity

Day 4 Morning whale shark safari; afternoon snorkelling in South Ari Atoll

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 the MV Felicity. Accommodation: MV Felicity

Day 5 Morning manta ray snorkelling (in season); afternoon cruise back into South Malé Atoll

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. Additionally, qualified divers may be offered the optional opportunity to dive within this protected marine area, which has several exciting dive sites (see money section for prices of the optional diving). For those who have not dived before, a Discover Scuba Diving course is offered to learn the basic safety guidelines and skills needed to dive under the direct supervision of a Padi professional. Those who choose not to dive can snorkel instead. This afternoon, we start our cruise northwards. Accommodation: MV Felicity

Day 6 Cruise back to Malé

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. Accommodation: MV Felicity

Day 7 Disembark boat and transfer to Malé International Airport; end of trip

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

Day 1 Welcome to Male!

Land in Male, then hop into your speedboat for a transfer to your island resort. After a quick meet-and-greet with the staff, you'll be ready to kick off your shoes and stick your toes in the sand! 

Day 2 South Male Atoll

Start your stay off strong by exploring what the island has to offer! Take a stroll along the beach and check out what kind of activities you can join in on during your stay. Enjoy some spa services in the afternoon to shake off the travel stress and get ready for an amazing week!

Day 3 South Male Atoll

Start your day with an early morning fishing excursion through the resort. In the early hours, you stand a chance of catching fish such as barracuda, wahoo, rainbow fish, sailfish, swordfish, marlin, and yellowfin tuna. If you'd prefer to just look, book a snorkeling trip! The crystal clear waters make the Maldives a great place to explore the colorful reefs.  

Day 4 South Male Atoll

Try your hand at some motorized watersports today! Hop on a jet ski and zip around the jewel-toned waves as you take in the beach from a different vantage point. If you're looking for something low-key, try a serene catamaran ride around the island. 

Day 5 Depart Maldives

Bag up your wet swimsuit, pack your flip-flops, and say goodbye to island life. It's time to transfer back to Male and board your flight back home.