The aim of 'Project Shark' is to highlight the global issues facing sharks, with a focus on manta rays and whale sharks in the Maldives, as well as enjoying some of the most spectacular reefs that the Maldives have to offer. Learn about the biology and behavior of both species around the Maldives with nightly lectures from our experts in this field. The week will involve close encounters with sharks, manta rays, and whale sharks (although these sightings cannot be guaranteed) with the possibility of observing them in their natural habitat and donating vital information to local Maldivian marine research and organizations. 

You will be joined on board for the duration of the safari by our experienced "Project Shark' trip host, Dr. Elke Bojanowski. Founder of the 'Red Sea Sharks Trust', experienced dive guide and marine biologist, Elke Bojanowski Ph.D., began the Longimanus Project in October 2004 and since this date, she has been actively collecting underwater photographs and video clips of Oceanic Whitetip Sharks for catalog, review, and analysis. Since 2012, the project has expanded to become Red Sea Sharks and increased its scope to include Grey Reef and Silky Sharks catalogs and monitoring many shark species. Elke is now broadening her shark horizons and hopping over to the Maldives to dive with mantas and whale sharks!

During this trip, you will be able to play a part in adding to valuable research efforts by the 'Manta Trust' which works towards the conservation of manta rays worldwide. Throughout the week, you will record your sightings for identification and submit them to existing Maldivian marine life charities, including the 'Manta Trust'.

This itinerary covers the 3 most Southern Atolls of the Maldives Archipelago offering the opportunity to dive into some of the best sites they have to offer.

From Huvadhoo Atoll, across the equator to the isolated atoll of Fuvahmulah, and all the way to the southernmost atoll, Addu. We wish to show you the very best diving possible. However, a number of factors determine which route the cruise director and Captain will choose and which dive sites we visit. Weather, tides, currents, and the number of dive vessels at a particular site all play a part in where the boat is heading. Whilst we attempt to ensure the number of dives we have scheduled is fulfilled, bad weather can hinder the vessel's ability to reach a specified dive site in good time. The safety of all on board is paramount and we always do our best in offering diving at alternate locations should we be unable to visit those sites listed below.

Please note that this itinerary will involve some diving in strong currents; these dives are not suitable for novice divers. We highly recommend a minimum of Advanced Open Water certification with at least 50 logged dives, Nitrox certification, and experience diving in currents.

Arrival airport: Male

Departure Airport: Male

Embarkation: Koodoo Airport

Disembarkation: Koodoo Airport

The diving day has a typical schedule as follows:

• Light Breakfast followed by a briefing and dive 1.
• Full Breakfast, relaxation period, briefing, and dive 2.
• Lunch, relaxation period, briefing, and dive 3.
• Snack, relaxation period.
• Dinner - if we offer a night or sunset dive, the schedule will be slightly amended.

QUALIFICATION NEEDED: You must be certified to dive to a depth of 30 meters as well as be experienced and comfortable with diving in medium to strong currents. Please refer to our itinerary checklist for additional information. If you have Open Water certification and experience with currents, we strongly suggest you complete Advanced Open Water or Deep Diver Adventure Dive either before or during your holiday so you can maximize your diving experience onboard.

The last dive will be on the penultimate day of the trip. Divers are recommended to wait for 24 hours before flying after the last dive.

Sample itineraries and maps are for illustrative purposes only. The exact route and sites visited are subject to change based on local regulations, guest experience, weather, and logistics and are at the Captain's discretion.