How to Go Swimming with Sharks in the Maldives

While sharks may have gotten a bad rap due to movies like "Jaws", these majestic creatures are not the crazed predator they are made out to be. Keep in mind you get a wide range of shark species and some of them are quite harmless; the great thing is, in destinations like the Maldives, you can even swim beside them! Here some insights into swimming with sharks in this tropical getaway.

Read Up on Local Shark Species

Before you even head to the water, it is best to read up on the different shark varieties in Maldives; this way you will not only learn more about them but also be able to visually recognise them on your underwater adventures. Keep in mind that the country is home to over 20 species of shark so you can look forward to many different encounters! Some resorts even have onsite marine biologists who can help you get a better understanding of these creatures.

So what are some of the kinds of sharks you may come across? Blacktip reef, whitetip reef, grey reef, hammerhead, zebra (or leopard), silvertip, guitar, tiger and whale sharks to name a few! You will also need to keep in mind that certain sharks can be easily found at specific areas; examples include whitetip reef sharks in the Ari Atoll, grey reef sharks at Guraidhoo Corner, hammerheads at Rasdhoo Kandu and whale sharks in Hanifaru Bay.

Plan When You Should Visit

The period of your visit could also determine what kinds or how many shark species you will encounter. In general, January to March which is part of the high season is a good period since the seas are quite calm and you will enjoy great visibility too. That said, you can see sharks at other times of the year as well.

An example of this would be whale sharks; these species can be seen year-round, while some areas like Hanifaru Bay in the Baa Atoll, a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve, are perfect for snorkelling with whale sharks especially from May to November. During this time, huge amounts of plankton get trapped in the reef attracting these creatures; in case you are wondering, whale sharks eat plankton too! You will find resorts in this atoll the likes of Amilla Maldives Resort and Residences which offer special snorkelling excursions where you can not only swim with whale sharks but manta rays as well.

Consider the Available Options

There are two options when it comes to swimming with sharks; you can do so while snorkelling or when scuba diving. Snorkelling makes a great choice since no prior experience is required and those who can swim will find it easy to just don a mask, snorkel and flippers and take to the waters; at protected areas like Hanifaru Bay where you can snorkel amidst whale sharks, diving is in fact, banned.

That said, those looking for more encounters should also consider scuba diving which is one of the best things to do in Maldives. You can either acquire the needed certification before you visit or get the required training and certification at a resort dive centre. It is best to go on guided diving excursions since you will be unfamiliar with the dive sites, some of which may only be accessible to experienced divers.

Remember to Keep Your Distance

Swimming with sharks in Maldives is not dangerous since as mentioned, most of them are harmless. However, you should always keep a certain distance from these species and at no time look to touch or stroke them. For example, it is said when snorkelling amidst whale sharks, it is advisable to keep a minimum distance of four metres from its tail and three metres from the head. Additionally, if taking underwater pictures, do not use the flash as that may startle the sharks.