The Maldives are home to over 26 species of sharks, and one of the only shark sanctuaries left in the world. Join us for an experience of the archipelago akin to none.

You'll get to know these often misunderstood ocean creatures, and learn how we can protect their ecosystem. There's no better way to dispel the stigma that surrounds the ocean's greatest fish than diving right in, getting up close and personal, and understanding their patterns and behaviors.

Alongside daily dives and explorations with these elegant animals, you'll also enjoy ocean talks from local NGOs' guest speakers, PADI Specialty courses, and entertainment. You'll arrive with a soft spot for sharks, and leave knowing them inside out.

Best of Maldives Itinerary: Male - Vaavu - S Ari - N Ari - Male (no domestic flight required)

Highlights:

• The focal point of this expedition will be channel dives alongside pelagic megafauna. This itinerary provides exhilarating experiences at shark cleaning stations and deep-water encounters.
• In the evening, you'll jump in for a spectacular night dive with our curious nurse sharks and stingrays, residents of the famous Alimatha Jetty.
• Moving further south, we will focus mainly on blue water dives on the eastern side of the atolls, giving you the opportunity to encounter hammerhead sharks.
• You'll spend a full day in the South Ari Marine Protected Area, the home of the planet's biggest fish, whale sharks, and numerous manta cleaning stations.
• We finish the week with some must-dive sites in North Ari Atoll before cruising back to Male.

SAMPLE ITINERARY:

Day 1:

The crew will transfer the guests from the airport to the ship after a nice welcome briefing by our Cruise Director, cabin allocation and ship orientation will take place. Guests can familiarize themselves with the vessel, set up equipment, and get comfortable.
After a check drive, we sail towards our first destination.

Days 2-7:

When possible, 3-4 dives per day are offered. When crossing only 1-2 dives a day can be scheduled.

Day 8:

After breakfast and check-out, we start preparing for disembarkation. We say goodbye to our guests and wish them farewell! The crew will organize the transfer to the Airport and assist at check-in for onward flights.

On top of daily diving, you'll experience:

• Guest speakers from the Shark Guardian.
• Project AWARE Specialty Courses.

(*) the itinerary description provided by the boat operator.

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.