They are very common in the Maldives, especially in the South Ari Atoll. Whale sharks use the archipelago as a nursery and as a result, most of them here are juveniles measuring around six metres long. They like swimming in shallow waters, so if you are lucky enough you can spot them when you’re snorkelling.
How many whale sharks are there in Maldives?
At any one point it is estimated that there are 200 whale sharks in the waters of the Maldives. The most common behaviour observed of these sharks is cruising, only 12% of encounters are feeding.
Is whale shark endangered in Maldives?
Reaching up to an incredible 65ft in length, they are the largest fish in the sea. Whale sharks are currently listed as endangered on the IUCN red list status and aggregation sites like those in the Maldives are important for juvenile sharks, making the charities research initiatives all the more crucial.
What country has the most whale sharks?
The latest research has identified over 1,600 individual whale sharks in Philippine waters – making it the world’s second-largest population after Mexico.
Where do you see whale sharks in the Maldives?
Vilamendhoo offers a trove of ocean adventures, while it is one of the top resorts for diving in the Maldives, it is also one of the best places in the world to discover and snorkel with whale sharks. Vilamendhoo’s Whale Shark Excursion gives you the chance to swim with and even photograph these majestic creatures.
What is the best time of year to see whale sharks in Maldives?
South Ari (Alifu Dhaalu) Atoll is one of the best places to spot whale sharks. The sightings are excellent year-round with a peak time from August to November. As for season, the best time is from December to May, even better from January – April.
Are there piranhas in Maldives?
They have substantial coral reefs and a diverse fish population. In addition, piranhas, turtles, stingrays, whale sharks, and a kaleidoscope spectrum of tropical water species are regular on dive sites. Aside from these, there are other best water sports that you can enjoy during your stay in the Maldives.
How big are whale sharks in Maldives?
They can grow up to 20 metres in length but they average at around 5 to 10 metres, and can weigh around 11 tons. Although they are sharks, they are filter feeders like whales which mean they feed on tiny creatures like plankton.
Why is whale shark endangered in Maldives?
Why Protect Whale Sharks in the Maldives. Whale sharks have been hunted for decades by local fishing communities for their fins and liver oils. This fishing has been banned since June 1995 but these sharks are still found with human-imposed injuries from incidents with boat propellers, ghost nets and harpooning.
Why whale shark are endangered?
Whale sharks are highly valued on international markets. Demand for their meat, fins and oil remains a threat to the species, particularly by unregulated fisheries. They are victims of bycatch, the accidental capture of non-target species in fishing gear.
Is it OK to swim with whale sharks?
It is perfectly safe to swim and snorkel with whale sharks, for people and the sharks. They are filter feeders, not predators, eating only tiny plankton. They don’t have teeth, and there have been no deliberate attacks on humans. Snorkelers can observe them at a relatively close distance.
Can you touch a whale shark?
It is illegal to touch a whale shark, so make sure to swim out of the way if one swims toward you. There’s no mistaking their large size and tremendous power, especially of their tail!
Is swimming with whale sharks safe?
While whale sharks have a huge mouth, they almost exclusively feed on plankton. That is why they are absolutely harmless to humans. They are mainly interested in fish eggs, algae and krill, and they are definitely not interested in the person swimming next to them.
Are there whale sharks in the Maldives?
Whale Sharks in Maldives can be best seen in the South Ari Atoll Marine Protected Area. Diving excursions, swimming tours and snorkelling tours are the best way to spot the whale sharks. You can easily book these at the resort you stay at or through a local diving operator.
What is the best time to visit Maldives?
The best time to visit the Maldives is between November and April. The climate is warm and tropical, with average highs at a consistent 29°C to 31°C year-round and average lows rarely falling below 24°C. January to April are the driest months, with little rain and low humidity, making this peak season at the resorts.
When can you see whales in Maldives?
Larger whales are not especially common, but blue whales are seen regularly as they migrate through the Maldives during November to May. In contrast, humpback whales are most commonly observed during June to October. The Maldives atoll chain runs some 800km north to south.
Can you swim with manta rays in the Maldives?
Hanifaru Bay in Maldives is undoubtedly the best place to swim with manta rays in Maldives – it’s renowned as the world’s largest manta ray feeding location. Perched inside Baa Atoll and boasting UNESCO status, the bay is a highly protected marine area since 2011.
How much does it cost to swim with sharks in Maldives?
Prices very but expect about $300 round trip per adult. Speedboat (cheapest): Definitely the cheapest option and a great experience at the same time. Sometimes speed boat transfers are even included when you book a guest house. However, depending on the distance to the island/Atoll, this option is not always available.
When can you see manta rays in Maldives?
Usually, between June to November, Manta rays can be seen on the eastern side of the atoll at Mahibadhoo Manta Point and between January to May on the western side of the atoll at Rangali Madivaru Manta Point. There’s nothing quite as magical as your first ever sighting of a manta ray in the ocean.
What should I avoid in Maldives?
10 Things Not To Do In Maldives
- Avoid Displaying Affection In The Streets.
- Importing Alcohol To Maldives Is Prohibited.
- Wearing Bikinis Is Limited To Resorts And Boats.
- Avoid Drinking Tap Water.
- Do Not Try To Smuggle In Banned Items.
- Do Not Forget To Put Sunscreen On.
- Do Not Wear Shoes On The Beach.
Do you get bitten in Maldives?
No insects or malaria
You’re not even likely to be bitten on your resort, as most islands are completely sprayed regularly and there is little or no standing water. You won’t come across anything else that will sting, bite or nip you (I have, very, very occasionally come across sandflies).