Maldives is a tropical paradise with stunning beaches, crystal clear water, and diverse marine life. But did you know that Maldives also has some of the best opportunities to swim with whale sharks, the largest fish in the world? Whale sharks are gentle giants that can grow up to 12 meters long and feed on plankton.
They are harmless to humans and often curious and friendly. Swimming with whale sharks in Maldives is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that you don’t want to miss.
Here are some tips on when and where to find them in Maldives.
When to See Whale Sharks in the Maldives
Whale sharks are year-round residents in the Maldives, tending to favor the western side of the Indian Ocean archipelago from June to December, then heading to the east until April. There are some peak seasons and locations where you can increase your chances of seeing them. The best time to see whale sharks in Maldives is from May to November when the water is rich in plankton and the sea is calm and clear.
This is also the wet season in Maldives, so you may encounter some rain showers and storms, but they usually don’t last long. The best time to swim with whale sharks is in the morning or afternoon when they are more active and closer to the surface.
Where to See Whale Sharks in Maldives
There are two main hotspots for whale shark sightings in Maldives: South Ari Atoll and Baa Atoll. These are both marine protected areas with strict regulations to protect the whale sharks and their habitat.
South Ari Atoll
South Ari Atoll is the most popular and reliable place to see whale sharks in the Maldives. You can spot them all year round, but especially from August to November.
The best places to see them are Sun Island, Maamigili Island, and Dhigurah Island, where the water depth ranges from 5 to 10 meters and the reef edge drops off sharply.
The whale sharks tend to swim along the reef edge, feeding on plankton and sometimes approaching the boats and divers. You can join a diving or snorkeling excursion from your resort or a local operator, or stay on one of these islands for easy access.
Baa Atoll
Baa Atoll is another great place to see whale sharks in Maldives, especially from May to September / October. This is when the southwest monsoon brings massive plankton blooms that attract hundreds of whale sharks and manta rays. The best place to see them is Hanifaru Bay, an uninhabited island that has been declared a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.
You can join a snorkeling tour from your resort or a local operator, but keep in mind that there are some restrictions in place:
- Diving is not permitted in Hanifaru Bay
- Fishing and boating are restricted
- Only five boats and 80 visitors are allowed at any given time
- Snorkeling is limited to 45 minutes per visit
Tips for Swimming with Whale Sharks in Maldives
Swimming with whale sharks in the Maldives is an amazing and unforgettable experience, but it also requires some responsibility and respect. Here are some tips to make sure you have a safe and enjoyable encounter with these gentle giants:
- Follow the instructions of your guide or boat captain. They know the best spots and times to see the whale sharks, and how to approach them without disturbing them.
- Wear a life jacket, snorkel, mask, and fins. These will help you stay afloat, breathe, see, and move in the water.
- Keep a safe distance from the whale shark. Stay at least 2 meters away from the head and tail, and 5 meters away from the body.
- Stay on one side of the whale shark. Do not swim over or under the whale shark, as this may scare or stress it. Try to swim parallel to the whale shark and match its speed.
- Remain calm and quiet. Do not make sudden movements or noises that may frighten the whale shark. Do not use flash photography or video lights, as these may harm the whale shark’s eyes.
- Do not feed or bait the whale shark. This may alter their natural behavior and diet, and make them dependent on humans.
- Do not litter or pollute the water. This may harm the whale shark and other marine life, as well as damage the coral reef.
Whale sharks are magnificent creatures that deserve our admiration and protection. Maldives is one of the best places in the world to swim with them, as they are present all year round and in large numbers. You can choose between South Ari Atoll and Baa Atoll, depending on the season and your preference.
You can also stay at some of the best resorts and guesthouses that offer whale shark tours and programs. You should also follow some guidelines and etiquette to ensure a respectful and responsible interaction with these gentle giants. Swimming with whale sharks in Maldives is a bucket list experience that you will never forget!
