What is There to Know About Spotting Whale Sharks in Maldives – Encounter a Huge and Entrancing Denizen of the Deep!

The beautiful Maldives is renowned for its amazing underwater treasures; if you snorkel or scuba dive in the waters surrounding these islands, you will have the opportunity to observe creatures like exotic fish, sharks, rays, sea turtles and more. Undoubtedly, a highlight for lovers of marine life is the magnificent whale sharks you could encounter here. Some useful information about viewing these giants of the deep in the Maldives is provided below. 

The nature of this marine species

The impressive whale shark happens to be the largest fish to be found in the oceans of the world. These immense creatures move relatively slowly and rely on filter feeding to obtain the nutrients that they require, basically consuming the plankton to be found in the seas. Whilst these majestic sharks can attain a length of as much as 18 m, they are harmless to humans. It is undoubtedly an absorbing and unforgettable experience to encounter one of these majestic ocean denizens whilst scuba diving or snorkelling. Naturally, it is vital to respect the whale sharks and avoid touching or approaching them too closely in the waters. 

Image via NH Maldives Kuda Rah Resort

South Ari Atoll 

One of the finest places in the Maldives for encountering these creatures is the South Ari Atoll, sometimes also called the Alifu Dhaalu Atoll. The odds of spotting whale sharks are high here as the local waters contain plentiful amounts of plankton. This atoll has been designated as a protected area by the government of the Maldives since 2009, with certain measures having been implemented to safeguard these huge but docile creatures. There is no doubt that South Ari Atoll would be counted amongst the finest places for swimming with these ocean dwellers in their native habitat. When seeking the best resort in Maldives for this experience, an accommodation choice in South Ari Atoll from which you could embark on whale shark excursions is the appealingly located NH Maldives Kuda Rah Resort. 

Baa Atoll

You will also have the opportunity to encounter these remarkable denizens of the ocean at the Baa Atoll, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. A particularly renowned site here is Hanifaru Bay where numerous manta rays gather to feed on the vast quantities of plankton available at certain times of the year. As you might expect, this abundant plankton also draws the interest of whale sharks which arrive here in their numbers. You will find that the coral reef to be found at Hanifaru Bay extends for 1,300 m and whale sharks often gather at a certain part of this reef. However, you must remember that this bay is a protected zone where boating, scuba diving and fishing are restricted, though guided snorkelling is permitted.

The optimal times for sightings 

Whilst it is quite possible to encounter these gentle giants throughout the year in the Maldives, there are seasons which are particularly suitable for spotting them. For instance, at South Ari Atoll the peak period for sightings is the duration from August through November. On the other hand, at Baa Atoll’s Hanifaru Bay, the best period for encountering whale sharks is the interval from May through November. 

Useful tips 

There are some guidelines that you should keep in mind when swimming with whale sharks in the Maldives. You should take care to remain on one side of the creature and stay a minimum of 1.5 m away from it at all times. Further, you must stay composed and calm since abrupt movements could frighten the animal, causing it to dive into the ocean depths. Naturally, you must refrain from touching the whale shark’s tail or any other part of its body; remember that its massive tail can cause injury to you inadvertently. Whilst you may take along an underwater camera, you should avoid using the flash since this could frighten the creature.