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Maldives Turtle Snorkelling Conservation Cruise

Highlights

  • Snorkel diverse reefs and marine rich tropical waters
  • Encounter turtles, sharks, dolphins and more
  • Assist in research and turtle
From £2034 pp*
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7 Nights

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What you'll do

Overview

Embark on a cruise of discovery and make a positive impact on the marine life of the Maldives through our unique cruise itinerary focused on citizen science and turtles. This unique itinerary is for everyone with a passion for turtles, the ocean and responsible travel. 

8th - 15th February 2026

21st - 28th March 2027

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Embark on a cruise of discovery and make a positive impact on the marine life of the Maldives through our unique cruise itinerary focused on citizen science and turtles. This unique itinerary is for everyone with a passion for turtles, the ocean and responsible travel. 

8th - 15th February 2026

21st - 28th March 2027

We have joined forces with The Olive Ridley Project Maldives (ORPM) who are on a mission to protect sea turtles and their habitats, through rescue and conservation medicine, scientific research, and educational outreach. As you cruise the waters of South Male and Vaavu Atoll on board MV Felicity, you’ll not only enjoy the breath-taking beauty of the Maldives but also actively contribute to the conservation of these incredible creatures.

Your expert local tour leader together with the Olive Ridley Project’s Sea Turtle Expert will introduce you to the 5 out of 7 sea turtle species that make Maldives waters their home, share the challenges they face and enlighten you on the crucial role of seagrass in sea turtle conservation efforts. Participate in snorkelling data collection trips to gather valuable information on sea turtle abundance and distribution. Contribute to meaningful beach cleans, enjoy enchanting sunrises and sunsets and create unforgettable memories.

*From price based on travel for 2 people.

Arrival

On arrival in the Maldives, you will transfer by dhoni to board MV Felicity, your home for the week. After settling into your cabin, the vessel sets off towards Maafushi in South Malé Atoll.

In the afternoon, you will enjoy your first snorkelling session, beginning with a responsible snorkelling briefing before entering the water. You will explore the reef at a gentle pace, learning how to minimise your impact while discovering colourful fish and coral formations.

As evening falls, you will attend an engaging presentation focused on coral reefs — their biodiversity, importance and the threats they face from climate change and human activity. The remainder of the evening is at your leisure as the boat cruises calmly through the atoll.

Overnight: MV Felicity (or similar)
Meals: Lunch, Dinner
Room Type: Air-conditioned cabin with en-suite (or similar)

Coral Nursery & Seagrass Meadows

This morning begins with a visit to Maafushi Island, where you will explore the realities of tourism on small island nations, discussing both its benefits and challenges. You will also visit a coral rehabilitation site, seeing coral propagation techniques and learning how reef restoration can positively impact island communities.

Later, you will snorkel seagrass meadows — one of the most valuable yet misunderstood marine ecosystems. You will discover how seagrass supports marine life, connects coral reefs and plays a vital role for species such as sea turtles.

After lunch on board, there is time for optional afternoon snorkelling or relaxation at leisure. As the vessel cruises further south through South Malé Atoll, you will attend an informative session focused on sea turtles, preparing you for upcoming encounters.

Overnight: MV Felicity (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Room Type: Air-conditioned cabin with ensuite (or similar)

Turtle Snorkelling & Vaavu Atoll

At sunrise, you will head into the water in search of sea turtles. Before snorkelling, you will learn the turtle code of conduct, ensuring encounters are respectful and non-intrusive. Photo identification techniques will be explained, showing how unique facial markings allow individual turtles to be identified — much like human fingerprints.

You will cross into Vaavu Atoll this morning, with multiple snorkelling opportunities at reefs where turtles are commonly sighted. While sightings are never guaranteed, the thrill lies in the search and the understanding gained through observation.

When turtles are encountered, you will snorkel alongside them while assisting with data collection, recording behaviour, size and identifying features. Later, you will learn how this information contributes to wider conservation research and environmental decision-making. The evening is spent at leisure on board.

Overnight: MV Felicity (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Room Type: Air-conditioned cabin with ensuite (or similar)

Snorkelling & Beach BBQ

This morning, you will once again snorkel in search of turtles, exploring vibrant coral reefs alive with fish, rays and reef sharks. Each snorkelling session offers new discoveries and further opportunities to build understanding of these underwater ecosystems.

In the afternoon, you will visit an uninhabited island — important nesting grounds for sea turtles. You will learn about turtle breeding and nesting habits, as well as the threats faced by eggs and hatchlings. There is time at leisure to explore the island’s beaches before taking part in a beach clean-up, helping leave a positive impact.

As evening arrives, you will enjoy a memorable BBQ dinner on the beach, dining beneath the stars in a truly Maldivian setting.

Overnight: MV Felicity (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, BBQ Dinner
Room Type: Air-conditioned cabin with ensuite (or similar)

Snorkelling

Today is dedicated to further snorkelling and turtle research. You will continue searching for turtles, contributing data that helps estimate population size, identify critical habitats and understand migration patterns.

You will learn more about the threats facing sea turtles, including bycatch, ghost nets and habitat loss. Educational sessions focus on rescue, disentanglement and rehabilitation efforts, offering insight into global conservation challenges.

The afternoon includes time at leisure on board, allowing you to relax between snorkelling sessions and reflect on the work you are contributing to.

Overnight: MV Felicity (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Room Type: Air-conditioned cabin with ensuite (or similar)

Snorkelling, Cruising & Gulhi Island

As the vessel begins its cruise back towards Malé, you will enjoy further snorkelling opportunities, continuing turtle data research while appreciating the balance of reef ecosystems and marine life diversity.

In the late afternoon, you will visit the local island of Gulhi. Known for fishing and traditional boat building, the island offers a glimpse into everyday Maldivian life. You will explore the boat yard, meet local residents and enjoy a refreshing kurumba (fresh coconut).

In the evening, a Maldivian theme night takes place on board, featuring a lively Bodu Beru musical performance that brings culture, rhythm and celebration to the journey.

Overnight: MV Felicity (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Room Type: Air-conditioned cabin with ensuite (or similar)

Final Snorkelling

Your final full day begins with another snorkelling session, offering a last chance to encounter turtles and complete data collection.

In the afternoon, you will review and consolidate all research findings from the trip, understanding how this data supports national conservation efforts. You will have the opportunity to ask questions, discuss discoveries and, if lucky, even name a newly identified turtle.

The remainder of the day is at leisure, with a relaxed final evening on board to reflect on the journey.

Overnight: MV Felicity (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Room Type: Air-conditioned cabin with ensuite (or similar)

Departure

After breakfast, you will disembark and transfer to Malé International Airport for your onward journey.

Meals: Breakfast

What's included

Included

  • Airport transfers
  • 7 nights standard cabin - FB*
  • Daily morning and afternoon snacks
  • Snorkelling activities
  • Conservation workshops
  • BBQ beach dinner
  • Visit Gulhi
  • Maldivian theme night including Bodu Beru musical performance
  • Local taxes
  • Snorkelling fins
  • *FB - Breakfast, lunch and dinner included

Accommodation

MV Felicity

MV Felicity a wooden hull gullet consists of 3 double and 3 twin fully air-conditioned cabins, which can accommodate 12 guests onboard at a time and is fully equipped with the required amenities.

Air conditioned cabins, toilets with hot & cold water
Salon space with bar facilities
Outside deck with dining facilities
Large sundecks with sun beds
Fully equipped PADI dive centre
TV/DVD/Music Library

Your local host

Maldives Paradise Team

We are an award winning sustainable tour company. We are mindful of ensuring we promote local tourism in line with Maldivian culture and traditions. Through education of our team, our guests and locals, we aim to protect the environment and limit where ever possible any negative impact to local life. We are based in the Maldives and we specialise only in the Maldives. Through our connections with The Maldives Ministry of Tourism we receive the most up to date travel advice and tourism announcements as they are made. We make it our business to know what is happening throughout the Maldives so that you don’t have to spend time researching. We have visited every local island and every resort we recommend, we have stayed at every accommoda... Read All

We are an award winning sustainable tour company. We are mindful of ensuring we promote local tourism in line with Maldivian culture and traditions. Through education of our team, our guests and locals, we aim to protect the environment and limit where ever possible any negative impact to local life. We are based in the Maldives and we specialise only in the Maldives. Through our connections with The Maldives Ministry of Tourism we receive the most up to date travel advice and tourism announcements as they are made. We make it our business to know what is happening throughout the Maldives so that you don’t have to spend time researching. We have visited every local island and every resort we recommend, we have stayed at every accommodation option to ensure we can provide you accurate, honest advice and information. We audit our property partners on an annual basis to ensure the standards we require for our guests are maintained and you are ensured a safe and comfortable stay. We care about each individual guest’s needs and requirements. We know that everyone travelling counts and so will always be happy to tailor-make an experience.

Maldives Paradise Team image

Location

This itinerary starts and finishes at Velana (Male) International Airport

FAQs

What is the weather like?

Like many places in the world today, the climate and weather patterns are changing and historical data is becoming less reliable as an indication of what to expect.

With a tropical climate, plenty of sunshine and temperatures around 30°C throughout the year, there is never a really bad time to visit the Maldives.

There are two distinct seasons: the dry season (northeast monsoon) from January to March and the wet season (southwest monsoon) from mid-May to November. ‘Wet season’ doesn’t mean it rains all the time, but during this period there is a higher probability of rain. However, in today’s world we do experience rain even during the ‘dry’ season.

What is the dress code?

The Maldives are a Muslim nation, therefore care needs to be taken regarding dress on small islands and in local communities.

While it is acceptable for men to wear t-shirts and shorts/swim shorts, women should avoid causing offence by maintaining a more conservative approach. T-shirts with sleeves that cover the shoulders, loose shorts that cover the thighs, or sundresses with a sarong around shoulders are advised.

All the islands we visit are more tolerant of guests wearing traditional beachwear, but women should NOT wear swimwear unless on an uninhabited island, sandbank, private tourist bikini beach (available on all islands you’ll stay on) or on board our cruises and snorkelling boats. Your tour leader will advise when and where this is possible.

How fit do I need to be?

No previous experience is needed for any of the included activities – just an average level of fitness and a sense of adventure. The activities aren’t strenuous, the only requirement is that you must be able to climb a ladder to exit the water, be comfortable in the water and be able to swim to participate in snorkelling activities.

Do I need to bring snorkelling equipment?

We strongly recommend you bring along your own mask and snorkel wherever possible. Not only will you be assured the mask fits your face properly (making it more comfortable and less likely to leak), it’s also more hygienic. A mask and snorkel are small and light, so they should take up very little space in your suitcase!

Due to the ocean current and wind conditions in the Maldives, the use of fins is essential for almost all snorkelling and these are included in all snorkelling activities we provide on tour. However, if you want to ensure a perfect fit, you are always welcome to bring your own.

Can you accommodate diet requirements?

On board our cruises we can cater to most diets providing we are advised at time of booking. If there is something particularly you eat within your diet that you can’t live without we would encourage you to pack some and be prepared for perhaps more repetition of meals than you would be used to back home. For further clarification drop us a message.

Note to support our sustainable approach to cruises we do not offer beef products on board.

When traveling on land based tours properties can cater for vegan and vegetarian diets but it is worth noting in regard to food on local islands, over 95% of products are imported and then from Male they are transferred once or twice a week to outer islands.

Fruit and vegetables whilst available can be limited and they do not form part of the traditional Maldivian diet in the way you may be used to back home with your 5 a day! Given that tuna is a key component of our diet as vegetarians you will find your diet quite limited in comparison to what you are used to, even a potato curry is likely to have dried tuna added. On local islands you can’t just pop out to the supermarket and what you may see in the convenience store one week is not seen again for months!

Is alcohol available?

Maldivians, as Muslims, are prohibited by law from consuming alcohol; hence there is a total restriction on alcohol being available on inhabited local islands, this includes the capital Male. Please do not bring alcohol through the airport as it will be confiscated and returned to you at time of departure.

Alcoholic beverages are available on our cruise itineraries and are purchased on board. Payment is required in USD cash or local currency to the boat captain.

When staying on local islands, visits to tourist resorts and bar boats in certain areas can be arranged.

Do I need travel insurance?

Travel insurance is compulsory on all of our multi day tours. You need to be covered for medical expenses abroad, including any emergency transportation costs to the nearest hospital and any emergency repatriation that may be required due to illness/injury.

We recommend your insurance covers flight delays, missing flight connections and lost/delayed luggage.

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