There’s no denying that one of the Maldives’ biggest drawcards is its mesmerising water that glitters and beckons in every shade of blue on the spectrum, from azure to cerulean. Travellers from around the world flock to the destination to enjoy cocktails in private infinity pools while soaking up views of the lapping lagoons below or pose for photos in front of expanses of abandoned aqua.
The true magic of this famous water, however, lies beneath the surface, where a wonderful world of vibrant coral reefs and majestic sea creatures exists. Join us as we explore some of our top resorts for access to amazing house reefs, marine biology programs, and aquatic adventures.
CONRAD RANGALI
One of the most majestic and exciting animals found in the waters of the Maldives is the whale shark. These gentle giants are the largest plankton-eating shark in the world, measuring a maximum size of 12.6m, and one of the best places to swim alongside them is in the South Ari Atoll, where Conrad Rangali is situated.
The luxury resorts offers a variety of ways for guests to get up close and personal with whale sharks, from group tours to private yacht trips – all of which are supported by an educational presentation about these unique creatures. The resort is one of the only places in the world where people can swim with whale sharks year-round, so regardless of when you’re thinking of visiting the Maldives, if underwater adventures are on your bucket list, Conrad is a great option for you.
COMO MAALIFUSHI
On the topic of whale sharks, one of COMO Maalifushi’s many amazing offerings is its whale shark night snorkel program where intrepid guests are taken from the resort to nearby waters to find the gentle giants. Choose to join them under the waves or simply observe them from the deck, where the clear Maldivian waters allow for an aquarium-like view. Keep in mind though, this activity is only available from the start of November until the end of April.
SONEVA FUSHI
Located in the Biosphere Reserve of the Baa Atoll, Soneva Fushi offers a dazzling variety of aquatic escapades, including snorkelling with manta rays at Hanifaru Bay. Just a 20-minute speedboat ride from the resort, this special spot is home to one of the world’s largest populations of the enigmatic, graceful, inquisitive and charismatic creatures. When time and tide align, fortunate snorkellers get to observe and capture a rolling, whirling feast where it may be possible to see hundreds of these large, yet harmless, creatures congregate to gorge themselves in the plankton-rich waters. There are also several other locations close to Soneva Fushi where manta sightings are common, so the exact itinerary of the trip may vary to maximize the chance of seeing these magnificent creatures.
Given Soneva’s commitment to sustainability and preserving the natural ecosystems of the Maldives, it’s no surprise that its house reef, known as Fish Soup Reef, is a great spot for snorkelling and diving right out the front of the resort. Turtles and dolphins frequently pass by the island, so grab some gear from the dive centre, chat to the PADI-qualified team, and head out into the pristine waters surrounding this ultra-luxe resort.
HURAWAHLI ISLAND RESORT
One of the only adults’-only escapes in the Maldives, Hurawahli Island Resort is where luxury treads lightly and is seasoned with awe – especially for marine lovers. Snorkel the island’s iconic house reef in balmy waters, shallow lagoons and vivid coral reefs that will have you excitedly finding nemo. Or if discovery is what you seek, a bespoke half or full day excursion aboard the chartered Bella, Hurawalhi’s luxury yacht, is simply on standby, waiting for you to set your adventurous spirit free.
Everyone loves to spot a turtle when they are scuba diving or snorkelling, and Hurawalhi Maldives is blessed with a relatively large and stable population of them. The turtles have a vast natural habitat of healthy reefs, endless sandy beaches on which to nest, and they enjoy full protection from poaching and exploitation. One of the planet’s longest surviving creatures, turtles have been around for over 120 million years, but all seven species are now endangered. At Hurawalhi you can expect to spot green sea turtles and hawksbill sea turtles, and if you’re interested, you can learn about how to protect them and contribute to their conservation.
HERITANCE AARAH
Located in the stunning Raa Atoll, in the Northern area of the Maldives lies Heritance Aarah, a haven for snorkellers and divers alike. Whether you’re planning on exploring Hammerhead Point or participating in a turtle quest, this all-inclusive resort is the perfect playground for your underwater ventures.
As one of the Maldives’ deeper archipelagos, with a beautiful house reef, Heritance Aarah flaunts an underwater setting that is among the best in the world. Start your day with a dose of vitamin SEA, a snorkel and some flippers, and take a plunge into the waters outside your villa, where you are assured to witness underwater wonders that will leave you mesmerised.
