The Maldives is one of the best parts of the world for scuba diving with sharks. These In Search of Sharks itineraries explore the central and south-central atolls of the Maldives with the aim of finding sharks, rays and other pelagics, whilst providing spectacular pinnacle and channel diving.
Our dates are timed to coincide with the Northeast Monsoon, when the currents flow from the eastern side of the Maldives. During this period, clean water from the open Indian Ocean provides excellent visibility on the eastern side of the Maldives (often 30m+) and great opportunities for sharks and other predators.
Channel dives on the eastern sides of the atolls will be the focus of these voyages along with walls, corners and overhangs in Vaavu and Meemu, which are home to beautiful soft corals and healthy marine life. Crossing to South Ari atoll, we aim to visit Maamagili: a Marine Protected Area known for its visiting whale sharks, which we hope you will be lucky enough to snorkel with.
Air temperatures during the northeast monsoon range between 24 - 33°C (75 - 91°F). Water temperatures average 24 - 29°C. Weather conditions are generally good, with little rain, low humidity, blue skies and calm seas.
Currents can be strong in January and February, but tend to ease in March and April, providing easier diving for less experienced divers.
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Atolls visited: |
South Malé - Vaavu - Meemu - South Ari |
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Experience needed: |
Minimum 30 logged dives with Deep Diver/Advanced Open Water qualification. Must be comfortable in strong currents |
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Number of dives: |
7 Night Voyages: up to 17 inc 1 night dive (6 diving days) |
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Dates: |
Northeast Monsoon (January - April) |
Itinerary
Sample 8 Day Itinerary
Day 1 - Embark in Malé
You will embark this afternoon in Malé, the capital city of the Maldives.
Days 2 - 7: Diving
You will spend these days searching for sharks, manta rays, whale sharks and other pelagics amongst some of the best of the central and south-central atolls: South Malé, Vaavu, Meemu and South Ari
You can expect to make up to 17 dives including 1 night dive.
Day 8 - Disembark in Malé
You will disembark in Malé this morning and will be transferred to the airport for your international flight or onward arrangements.
Why not consider extending your time in the Maldives at one of our carefully selected island resorts for more diving and snorkelling.
Please note: Every liveaboard voyage will be different, with actual islands and dive sites determined according to wind force and direction, ocean currents, visibility, reports of recent marine life sightings, safety and boat considerations taken by the captain and crew. Nothing can be guaranteed, including the number of dives you conduct or the species you might see, but rest assured that the captain and crew have everyone's diving interests in mind and will try to make your experience a very rewarding one amongst these stunning tropical atolls.
Dates
Please click on the ship's photo for vessel details
Notes
Maldives Explorer
Prices relate to lower deck cabins. Upgrades to Upper Deck Cabin, Main Deck Suite & Upper Deck Suite are available. Please contact us for details.
Prices include: three meals per day onboard, afternoon snacks, BBQ on a local island (weather permitting), drinking water, tea, coffee, glass of wine with dinner, diving, tanks, weights, NITROX for qualified divers, standard return airport transfers, government taxes and bed tax
Not included: international and domestic flights, insurance, dive kit rental, dive courses, tips, alcoholic drinks, soft drinks, juices, spa treatments, non-standard airport transfers, fuel surcharge (if applicable)
Please note: a 12% GST will be charged on onboard purchases. This can be avoided on dive rental gear and courses by booking in advance. An additional 4% transaction fee will be applied to credit card payments onboard.
