Maldives Manta Ray Conservation Cruise

Upon arrival in the Maldives, you’ll be greeted by our tour leader at Male International Airport and transferred to the MV Felicity, your home for the week - please make sure you arrive by midday. Once you’ve settled into your cabin, we set sail across the clear waters of North Male Atoll. As we cruise, take in your first breathtaking views of the island-dotted horizon - a glimpse of the journey ahead.

This afternoon we’ll get straight into the water for our first snorkelling session. This initial outing is a chance to try out your gear, get comfortable in the ocean, and for your tour leader to assess everyone’s ability. More than that, it’s your introduction to the vibrant marine life of the Maldives. Our guide will act as a spotter, pointing out species that might otherwise go unnoticed, helping you get the most from the experience.

Before dinner, we gather for a presentation by Manta Trust. We’ll learn about their conservation work, the history of manta research in the Maldives, and how this cruise supports environmental initiatives through the Local Island Fund for the Environment (LIFE).

Please Note: We strongly recommend you bring your own mask and snorkel on this tour, both for hygiene reasons and to ensure a proper fit.

We begin the day with an early morning crossing from North Male Atoll into Baa Atoll, one of the Maldives’ richest and most ecologically significant marine regions.

As we sail and enjoy breakfast, our tour leader will introduce you to the work of the Olive Ridley Project. You’ll learn about their vital efforts in environmental monitoring and turtle conservation, including their research on marine turtle populations and the threats they face. You’ll also be introduced to the turtle snorkelling code of conduct - an essential guide to responsible wildlife encounters - so that later today, when we visit Dhonfanu, you’re well prepared. This reef is known for frequent turtle sightings, and with luck, we’ll observe these graceful creatures in their natural environment.

In the evening, gather once more for a fascinating presentation on manta rays. We’ll explore the biology of these extraordinary animals, delve into the research being conducted on the local manta population, and understand how this data plays a crucial role in shaping environmental policy in the Maldives.

Located on the southeastern side of Baa Atoll near the island of Dharavandoo, Hanifaru Bay is part of a channel whose funnel-shaped reef traps plankton between May and November, attracting manta rays and occasionally whale sharks. A designated UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and Marine Protected Area since 2011, access to the bay is regulated with a ticketing system allowing vessel entry on alternate days.

Our cruise is timed to coincide with either the new or full moon, which often increases the chances of manta sightings, although these are never guaranteed. If conditions are favourable, we hope to spot these incredible creatures and support data collection efforts.

In the afternoon, we visit the uninhabited island of Huraa Faru, where we’ll explore the beach and take part in a clean-up activity, addressing the plastic waste that sadly washes ashore. This hands-on effort is a meaningful way to contribute to local conservation.

Later, as we cruise to our anchorage at Veyofushi, we’ll learn about whale shark biology, ongoing research by the Maldives Whale Shark Research Program, and the role we play in helping protect these endangered animals.

Today brings more opportunities to encounter manta rays, this time in the lagoons of Veyofushi and Reethi Beach. If we’re fortunate enough to spot them, we’ll follow the manta ray code of conduct and enter the water to snorkel alongside these graceful giants. During the encounter, we’ll help collect important data - recording size, markings, behaviour, and capturing ID photographs - contributing directly to the Manta Trust’s ongoing research.

We then cruise north into Raa Atoll, making our way to the vibrant reef of Kottefaru. Here, with a bit of luck, we may witness manta rays in full feeding mode. These filter feeders swim with their mouths open, drawing in large volumes of water to extract plankton. To maintain their energy, they need to consume up to 7kg of plankton a day, and their anatomy is perfectly suited to this unique method of feeding.

In the evening, we turn our attention to the broader picture, exploring the geology of the Maldives and the incredible biodiversity found across the archipelago. We’ll also examine the country’s vulnerability to rising sea levels and climate change, and learn about the various projects in place to help build resilience for the future.

Today we remain in Raa Atoll, where we’ll enjoy exploratory snorkelling sessions at Dhikkuredhdhoo Finolhu, Boduhaiykodi and Madivaafaru. While manta ray sightings are never guaranteed, we’ll be ready to collect identification data should we encounter them, following established manta ray protocols. These snorkels also allow us to observe a range of coral reef formations and marine species.

In the afternoon, we shift focus to the work of NGO Miyaru, dedicated to shark conservation in the Maldives. As one of the Indian Ocean’s most important shark sanctuaries, the Maldives supports significant populations of large predatory sharks, including critically endangered species. Although shark fishing is prohibited, these creatures still face threats from climate change, marine pollution, vessel traffic, increased tourism, and habitat destruction caused by land reclamation. We’ll gain insight into the environmental monitoring and research efforts underway to safeguard these vital predators.

We finish the day with a relaxed BBQ dinner on the beach at Dhorangali, dining under the stars and reflecting on the day’s experiences.

As the sun rises, we begin our journey back into Baa Atoll, where we’ll stop at the local island of Kamadhoo. This small, lush island is rich in vegetation and offers a fascinating insight into daily life in the Maldives. As we stroll through the sandy lanes, our tour leader will share how culture and tradition continue to shape everyday routines. Kamadhoo is part of the Soneva Namoona initiative, which promotes sustainable practices through waste reduction, recycling and reuse. Waste is carefully segregated and managed by the local council and residents themselves. Before leaving the island, we’ll stop at a local café for a refreshing Kurumba – a chilled coconut enjoyed Maldivian-style.

In the afternoon, we’ll snorkel at either Dhonfanu or Dhaandhoo Reef. These waters are alive with marine life, offering another unforgettable experience of vibrant corals and diverse fish species.

This evening, our tour leader will explore the various human activities threatening the fragile marine ecosystem of the Maldives. You’ll gain an understanding of the challenges faced and how we can all take steps to help protect this unique environment.

Today we cruise from Baa Atoll back to North Male Atoll. As we sail, we’ll take time to ensure all the data collected during the trip is properly recorded and reflect on the findings we’ve contributed to. On the way to Hulhumale, our final anchorage of the tour, we stop at the local island of Huraa.

Here, we’ll visit the island’s mangrove lake and learn about the vital role mangroves play in the Maldivian ecosystem – from providing coastal protection to supporting marine biodiversity. We’ll also explore how fish is traditionally dried on the island and have the chance to try rihakaru paste – a distinctive Maldivian delicacy made from fermented tuna, which tends to divide opinion!

Disembark after a final breakfast onboard. You will be transferred to Male International Airport for your onward flight.