Experiences

Whale shark excursion on the local islands

Snorkel with whale sharks along the South Ari MPA

  • 22activities
  • 38islands
  • 1local operator
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Snorkeling35 islands Scuba diving30 islands · 1 operator Sandbank picnic29 islands Turtle snorkeling22 islands Sunset & night fishing21 islands Dolphin cruise20 islands Island hopping19 islands Local culture & village walk19 islands Resort day trip17 islands Manta ray snorkeling15 islands
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Surfing14 islands Water sports14 islands Freediving12 islands · 1 operator Kayaking & SUP11 islands Big game fishing10 islands Whale shark excursion7 islands Nurse sharks & stingrays5 islands Wreck diving4 islands Bioluminescence2 islands Hammerhead dive2 islands Spa & wellness1 island Tiger shark dive1 island · 1 operator
Where to go

Best islands for whale shark excursion

South AriDhangethi≈1 hr 30 min by speedboat South AriDhigurah≈1 hr 30 min by speedboat BaaFehendhoo1hr 30min South AriFenfushi≈1 hr 45 min by speedboat BaaGoidhoo1.5–2 hours from Malé South AriOmadhoo≈1 hr 30 min by speedboat VaavuVaavu ThinadhooApproximately 75–90 minutes by speedboat
Local operators

Whale shark excursion operators

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No operators listed for this yet

Guest houses arrange whale shark excursion for their guests every day, usually with the island's own boat crews. Pick one of the islands above and ask your host.

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When to go

The reef has seasons too

Manta rays

Hanifaru Bay in Baa is famous from roughly May to November. Ari's cleaning stations are busier from about December to April.

Whale sharks

Seen all year in the South Ari Marine Protected Area, around Dhigurah and Dhangethi.

Calm, clear water

The dry season, about December to April, usually brings flat seas and the best visibility.

Surf

Waves are most consistent from about March to October, around North Malé breaks such as Thulusdhoo and Himmafushi.

Seasons vary year to year. Your host or operator will know what's being seen this week.

Good to know

On the reef

  • Don't touch or stand on coral. It's alive, and it's what feeds the island.
  • Give wildlife space: stay a few metres from whale sharks, mantas and turtles, and never chase or touch them.
  • Use reef-safe sunscreen, or a rash vest.
  • Go with a licensed operator: look for the Verified badge, and ask about life jackets and first aid.
  • Diving before your flight home? Leave about 24 hours between your last dive and take-off.

Run trips, a dive centre or a boat?

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