Often stereotyped as senseless killing machines, sharks have gotten a bad rap; contrary to popular belief, you get shark species that are harmless and which can be encountered in the Maldives.
Diverse Species
A wide variety of sharks can be seen here with over 20 species known to be found in the waters of the Maldives. Island tours aside, you can enjoy diving excursions to see some of these varieties; they include grey reef, hammerhead, whitetip reef, blacktip reef, nurse, zebra, tiger and whale sharks as well.
Diving Excursions
When it comes to diving in Maldives for shark sightings, resorts in the South Male Atoll the likes of Adaaran Club Rannalhi are ideal the whole year through. Such properties feature house reefs that can be easily accessed by novice divers to see nurse and whitetip reef sharks, while they also provide excursions to other sites for more shark encounters.
Non-Diving Encounters
Diving is not the only means in which to observe sharks in Maldives; depending on the location, you can also snorkel above sharks including huge whale sharks which will not cause you harm. For those who would rather stay dry, some resorts offer morning boat trips where sharks can be swimming beside the vessel.
Things to Keep in Mind
For those who plan to go snorkelling or diving amidst sharks, there are several things to keep in mind; one must refrain from touching these creatures (practice “social distancing”!), do not cross its path or approach from the front and avoid using a flash when taking pictures underwater.
