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From £1990 pp*
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Maldives Whale Shark Snorkelling Conservation Cruise

Highlights

  • Visit 8 islands within the Maldives
  • Accompanied by Maldives Whale Shark Research Program
  • Spot sea life like turtles, colorful fish, sharks, and dolphins
  • Unforgettable meals under the stars and delicious local dishes
From £1990 pp*
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7 Nights

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What you'll do

Overview

You will journey deep into the heart of the Maldives on an extraordinary cruise adventure that goes far beyond a typical island escape.

This is an immersive, purpose-led holiday where exploration, conservation and connection come together beneath turquoise waters and starlit skies.

2026 Dates:
1st – 8th February 2026 – Full
15th – 22nd February 2026
22 February - 01 March
1st – 8th March 2026 - Full
22nd – 29th March 2026
5th – 12th April 2026
23rd - 30 August 2026
1st - 8th November 2026
8th – 15th November 2026
15th – 22nd November 2026

2027 Dates:
7th – 14th February 2027
14th – 21st February 2027
21st – 28th February 2027
28th March – 04th April 2027
4th April – 11th April 2027
14th – 21 November 2027

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You will journey deep into the heart of the Maldives on an extraordinary cruise adventure that goes far beyond a typical island escape.

This is an immersive, purpose-led holiday where exploration, conservation and connection come together beneath turquoise waters and starlit skies.

2026 Dates:
1st – 8th February 2026 – Full
15th – 22nd February 2026
22 February - 01 March
1st – 8th March 2026 - Full
22nd – 29th March 2026
5th – 12th April 2026
23rd - 30 August 2026
1st - 8th November 2026
8th – 15th November 2026
15th – 22nd November 2026

2027 Dates:
7th – 14th February 2027
14th – 21st February 2027
21st – 28th February 2027
28th March – 04th April 2027
4th April – 11th April 2027
14th – 21 November 2027

Cruise our island paradise with the Maldives Whale Shark Research Programme and experience the ultimate in marine life encounters, marine conservation and environment awareness. Expect to see whale sharks, turtles, reef sharks, morays, eagle rays, dolphins and abundant tropical fish life.

This unique hand-curated cruise itinerary is for anyone with a passion for the ocean and responsible travel. Discover new places and cultures, learn more about marine life, participate in data capture and bask in beautiful natural surroundings.

*From price based on travel for 2 people.

Arrival Day

On arrival at Male International Airport, you will be met by your guide and welcomed aboard MV Felicity, your floating home for the next seven nights.

After time to settle into your cabin, you will cruise towards South Male Atoll for your first taste of the Maldives’ underwater world. Your guide will introduce you to responsible snorkelling, helping you feel confident in the water while showing you how to protect the delicate coral reefs and marine life around you.

As you glide over the reef, keep your eyes open for colourful fish, coral gardens and the first signs of the incredible marine life that makes the Maldives so special.

In the evening, enjoy time onboard as your guide shares more about the importance of coral reefs, the threats they face and the small ways travellers can help protect these fragile ecosystems.

Meals Included: Lunch, snacks, high tea and dinner

Cruise to South Ari Atoll and Local Island Life

Wake to the gentle rhythm of the ocean as you begin your cruise towards South Ari Atoll, one of the Maldives’ best-known areas for marine life encounters.

Today, you will visit the local island of Dhangethi, where you can experience a more authentic side of island life. Explore the island with your guide, discover everyday Maldivian culture and enjoy a taste of local cuisine.

You will also snorkel over the island’s seagrass beds, an often-overlooked but incredibly important marine habitat. These underwater meadows provide shelter and feeding grounds for marine life, including turtles, and play a vital role in keeping the ocean healthy.

Before dinner, the Maldives Whale Shark Research team will introduce you to the world of whale sharks, preparing you for the exciting safari ahead. You will learn how to behave responsibly in the water, helping to make any encounter safe and respectful for both you and these gentle giants.

Meals Included: Breakfast, lunch, snacks, high tea and dinner

Whale Shark Safari and Citizen Science

Today is one of the true highlights of the journey, as you set out on a dedicated whale shark safari in South Ari Atoll.

This region is known for possible whale shark sightings, particularly around the reefs near Dhigurah. The search is all part of the adventure, as you scan the ocean from the boat, waiting for that unforgettable moment when a fin or shadow appears beneath the surface.

When conditions are right and a whale shark is spotted, you will have the chance to snorkel alongside one of the ocean’s most majestic creatures. Moving calmly through the water beside a whale shark is a magical experience and one that stays with you long after you leave the Maldives.

As part of the conservation focus, you may also assist the research team with data collection, helping to record details such as size, markings, behaviour and ocean conditions. This hands-on experience allows you to contribute directly to ongoing whale shark research in the Maldives.

This evening, learn more about whale shark biology, behaviour and the important work being carried out to protect them.

Meals Included: Breakfast, lunch, snacks, high tea and dinner

Second Whale Shark Safari

After breakfast, you will head out once again for another dedicated whale shark safari and data collection session.

With a better understanding of whale shark behaviour from the previous day, today offers another exciting opportunity to search for these gentle giants. Every encounter is different, and the anticipation of spotting one in the blue is part of what makes this experience so special.

If whale sharks are sighted, you will follow the code of conduct and enter the water respectfully. There may also be the chance to photograph their unique spot patterns, which are used by researchers to identify individual sharks and track their movements over time.

Whether this brings your first sighting or another unforgettable encounter, today is a chance to deepen your connection with the ocean and play a small part in protecting one of its most remarkable species.

Meals Included: Breakfast, lunch, snacks, high tea and dinner

Manta Point and Uninhabited Island Adventure

This morning, you will cruise early to Rangali Madivaru, also known as manta point, for a snorkelling experience before breakfast.

Manta rays are never guaranteed, but this area offers the possibility of seeing these graceful creatures gliding through the water. If you are lucky enough to encounter them, your guide will ensure the manta ray code of conduct is followed, creating a respectful and memorable experience.

Later, you will visit an uninhabited island, where soft sands, clear waters and untouched scenery create a real castaway feeling. Wander along the beach, explore hidden corners and take in the peaceful beauty of this remote island setting.

You will also take part in a beach clean-up, helping to leave the island better than you found it. It is a simple but meaningful way to give back to the environment that has made this journey so special.

Meals Included: Breakfast, lunch, snacks, high tea and dinner

Reef Snorkelling, Gulhi and Maldivian Culture

Today, you will begin cruising back towards Male, with two snorkelling sessions along the way. Each reef offers something different, from coral formations and tropical fish to the chance of spotting turtles, rays or reef sharks in the blue.

In the late afternoon, you will visit the local island of Gulhi. This peaceful island has strong links to fishing and boat building, and is home to one of the oldest dry dock boatyards in the Maldives. Walk through the island with your guide, see traditional boats under renovation and enjoy a refreshing kurumba, or fresh coconut.

In the evening, enjoy a Maldivian theme night onboard MV Felicity. With traditional Bodu Beru music and dance, this is a lively and memorable celebration of local culture, bringing the sounds and rhythms of the Maldives to life.

Meals Included: Breakfast, lunch, snacks, high tea and dinner

Snorkelling Finale

Start the day with another snorkelling session, giving you one more chance to immerse yourself in the Maldives’ vibrant marine world. Keep watch for turtles, reef sharks, rays and colourful fish as you explore the reef.

On the way back towards Hulhumale, you will visit Villimale, where you will meet local NGO Save the Beach. Here, you will learn how community action, development and conservation are closely connected in the Maldives.

You will also have the opportunity to snorkel around the Villimale coral nursery, one of Save the Beach’s key projects. It is a fitting final experience, bringing together the themes of marine life, conservation and community that run throughout this journey.

Spend your final evening onboard reflecting on a week of ocean adventures, local encounters and unforgettable moments at sea.

Meals Included: Breakfast, lunch, snacks, high tea and dinner

Farewell Maldives

After breakfast, you will disembark and transfer to Male International Airport, where your Maldives conservation cruise comes to an end.

You will leave with incredible memories of whale shark searches, colourful reefs, local islands, meaningful conservation experiences and the feeling of having discovered a very different side of the Maldives.

Meals Included: Breakfast

What's included

Included

  • Airport transfers
  • 7 nights standard cabin - FB*
  • Snorkeling activities
  • Local Island Tours
  • Hedika Experience
  • Cultural Dinner
  • Dingy or dhoni transfer to snorkelling points and islands
  • Local taxes
  • *FB - Breakfast, lunch and dinner included with snacks, unlimited tea, coffee and water

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

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.

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Location

Tour Start Time: Male International Airport: 12pm
Tour End Time: Male International Airport 9am

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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