Maldives Island Hopping & Conservation Cruise

March 13 - 21, 2027

Women’s only whale shark snorkeling conservation cruise

This adventure is rated 2 out of 5 difficulty level. Activities are included, but optional if outside of your comfort zone. For this trip, no previous experience is needed for any of the included activities – just an average level of fitness . The activities aren’t strenuous, the only requirement is that you must be able to climb a ladder to exit the water, be comfortable in the water and be able to swim to participate in snorkeling activities.

Why a whale shark conservation cruise in the Maldives?

  • Maldives boasts exceptional marine biodiversity with the world’s seventh larges coral reef system

  • Home to over 1,100 fish species, 250+ coral species, 5 species of marine turtles, 21 species of whales and dolphins and more.

  • The Ari Atolls are unique and one of the few places in the world where whale sharks can be spotted year-round.

  • Two types of manta rays - reef manta rays and oceanic manta rays - are commonly found in the Ari Atolls along with three types of sharks - white-tip reef sharks, black-tip reef sharks and grey reef sharks.

  • Species like Hawksbill, green sea turtles, eagle rays, barracuda, nudibranchs are all frequently spotted throughout the Ari Atoll islands in the Maldives.

Trip Highlights!

  • Cruise on a private wooden gullet with your Capitan and crew as you explore the stunning Maldivian islands.

  • Snorkel with majestic whale sharks and learn about these gentle giants from the Maldivian Whale Shark Research Program. Assist in data collection, identify individuals, and maybe even take measurements under water.

  • Learn about the unique Maldivian ecosystem, the conservation challenges and how you can help protect biodiversity and marine life of the Maldives.

  • Spot sea life like turtles, colorful fish, dolphins, sharks and more.

  • Support local NGO Save the Beach, visit a coral nursery and learn about the efforts locally to regenerate coral reefs and how you can assist the process.

  • Learn about the importance of the humble seagrass in sea turtle conservation efforts.

  • Visit the island of Gulhi, meet the locals and enjoy an evening of music and dance.

  • Stop at deserted sandbank islands and participate in beach cleans.

  • Start and end your day with mesmerizing sunrises & sunsets and of course, kick back and relax as you sail your worries away.

  • Women’s only, small boat tour with a total of 9 women + your Maldivian boat crew on board.

whale shark in clear blue water with divers
wooden sale boat off maldives island
snorkeler coming up to school of fish under water
snorkeler taking a photo underwater
whale shark swimming through blue water with two divers beside
boat parked of island with white sand beach and tropical trees
turtle swimming underwater in ocean
snorkeler measuring sea grass underwater

ITINERARY

    • Your trip begins with your arrival at the Malé-Velana International Airport (MLE). An airport transfer will be provided on arrival. Our local

    • Once you arrive at the hotel in Male, enjoy time to get settled in. No activities are planned today so you can rest before our exciting adventure begins.

    • Dinner is at your leisure. A group dinner will be arranged at a local restaurant for those who' would like to join.

    • Enjoy breakfast, pack up, and check out of the hotel. Today we make our way to our boat where we will get settled in.

    • Later we’ll meet our boat concierge and captain for a safety briefing and we will learn about responsible snorkeling and tourism practices.

    • In the evening, join in for a presentation to learn about the vital role of coral reefs, their biodiversity and the threats they face due to climate change, pollution and human activities. We will learn what we can do to limit our impact as a species and help maintain a better balance in the eco system.

    • Meals included: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

    • As the sun rises, we begin to cruise towards the South Ari Atoll, known for its exceptional snorkeling opportunities.

    • Today we will visit the local island of Dhangethi, providing a taste of local culture and Maldivian cuisine. On the island, we will snorkel the seagrass beds and discover their importance to the ecosystem.

    • Prior to dinner, we will talk about the Maldives Whale Shark Research (MWSR) and the conservation of whale sharks preparing you for our whale shark snorkel tomorrow! Learn about the code of conduct for a positive encounter for both you and the whale shark.

    • Meals included: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

    • Today marks the highlight of the itinerary with a dedicated whale shark snorkel and help with collecting data for research. South Ari Atoll is well known for the  possibility of encountering whale sharks particularly on the reefs behind Dhigurah. There is only one way we can spot them and that’s the old-fashioned way of being out on the boat and looking! We may see 2 or 3 sharks in half an hour or maybe none for the whole time we are searching, but the unpredictability all adds to the excitement!  

    • When we do spot them, it will be a truly magical experience and we will have an opportunity to snorkel alongside them. We’ll practice the whale shark code of conduct and as part of the data capture process, assist the MWSR team in collecting valuable information about the  whale sharks, such as size, behavior, and markings. From the boat, we will assist with taking notes about the weather and ocean conditions, number of vessels in the area, and number of tourists in the water. This hands-on experience contributes directly to their ongoing research  efforts. 

    • This evening we will learn about the biology and behavior of whale sharks, the research efforts of Maldives Whale Shark  Research, and the importance of protecting these marine giants. 

    • Meals included: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

    • Wake up and enjoy a delightful and fresh breakfast prepared for you before you begin your day.

    • Today we venture once again into the waters of SAMPA for a second dedicated whale shark safari and data collection session. With a better understanding of whale shark behavior and movement patterns gained from the  previous day, today presents another opportunity to fine-tune your spotting skills and contribute meaningfully to  citizen science. 

    • Join the MWSR team in monitoring and recording key information such as size estimates, distinguishing features, and  any notable injuries or unusual behavior. If conditions allow, there's also the potential to photograph their unique spot patterns — a method used to identify individual sharks and track their movements over time. 

    • Whether you were lucky enough to encounter multiple whale sharks yesterday or are hoping today brings your first sighting, the thrill of the search and the knowledge that you are directly supporting marine conservation makes this experience both rewarding and unforgettable. 

    • Meals included: Breakfast, lunch and dinner

    • We start cruising early morning to Rangali Madivaru (manta point) where we will snorkel before breakfast. While it is never a guarantee, we may be lucky enough to encounter manta rays.

    • In the afternoon, we visit an uninhabited island. As you step onto its shores, you will feel like an intrepid explorer,  discovering a place that feels like it belongs only to you. The island's beaches will invite you to wander and explore their  hidden corners. Unfortunately, plastic is often not hidden and we will spend time completing a beach clean-up activity, ensuring we leave a positive mark on the island.

    • We’ll wrap up our day enjoying sunset and dinner on board.

    • Meals included: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

    • Today we begin making our way back towards Male. En route two snorkeling activities providing opportunities to observe different coral reef formations, encounter a variety of fish species, and appreciate the intricate balance of these underwater ecosystems. 

    • In the afternoon, we visit the local island of Gulhi. This tiny quiet island’s main economy is fishing and it is also home to  the oldest dry dock boat yard in the Maldives. Stand in awe at the size of the boats under renovation in the boat yard, chat with the ladies sweeping the streets and finally refresh yourself with a cool Kurumba (coconut).  

    • In the evening, a Maldivian theme night is organized on board, featuring a Bodu Beru musical performance, showcasing traditional Maldivian music and dance. This cultural immersion further deepens participants' understanding of the Maldivian culture and enhances their overall learning experience.

    • Meals included: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

    • We start the day with another snorkeling session, allowing you to further explore the marine life and habitats of the  Maldives. Keep your eyes open for turtles, sharks, and rays because you never know what may be in the blue! 

    • On route to Hulhumale we visit Villimale, where we will visit a local NGO, Save the Beach. Here we will witness how the broader socio-economic factors and development is affecting marine conservation and local communities. We will enjoy one final opportunity to snorkel and visit the Villimale coral nursery, one of Save the Beach’s key projects. 

    • Meals included: Breakfast, lunch and dinner

    • Enjoy an early breakfast before packing up and disembarking the boat. There will be one group transfer back arriving at Velana International Airport (MLE) at 9 am in the morning.

    • Meals included: Breakfast


two twin beds in a wooden room on sailboat
group of people gathered on white sand beach to pick up trash
group of researchers on computers aboard a sailboat
wooden sailboat parked off maldives island
dining area on a sailboat wtih blue cushions and white tablecloth
casual deck dining area on sailboat with ocean in distance
stand made to grow coral underwater with tropical fish hiding in it
sailboat in the distance on the ocean while the sun is setting

Questions? Please reach out to us at info@womenwhoexplore.com

  • $4,495 double occupancy.

    $5,195 single occupancy.

    If you are traveling solo, you will be assigned roommates upon request.

    A deposit is due at booking to secure your spot and a payment plan is offered. Additional payments may be applied to the trip balance prior to payment dates.

  • • 8 days / 7 nights accommodations in a standard cabin on a 6 room wooden hull gullet (see below for more details on the boat)

    • 1 night accommodations in 4 star hotel in Male.

    • Airport transfer from and to Velana International Airport (MLE).

    • Cruise on a private wooden hull gullet and visit islands in South Male Atoll and South Ari Atoll including Dhangethi, Gulhi, and Villmale

    • Research whale sharks and snorkel alongside them while you help collect data for the MSWRP database

    • Snorkeling opportunities throughout the trip where you may encounter sharks, turtles, manta rays and more.

    • Visit local island of Gulhi’s dry dock boatyard and experience local life

    • Maldivian cultural night with traditional Bodu Beru music and dance performance

    • Educational opportunities to learn about and how to protect coral reefs, whale sharks, and the biodiversity of Maldives

    • Contribute to coral nurseries and participate in beach cleans

    • $50 donation made on behalf of each participant to Save the Beach

    • Unlimited house tea, coffee and drinking water

    • Meals - 8 breakfasts, 7 lunch, 7 dinners. Daily morning and afternoon snacks with high tea

    • $12 Green Tax per person per night and all other government taxes, service charges, and local fees

    • Women Who Explore trip leader with you and available for support 24/7

    • Trip checklists, detailed packing list and pre-travel support provided in a private WhatsApp group

    • WWE Swag to take home with you

    • Small group with 7 women + your WWE Trip Host (+ local guide and boat crew)

  • • International flights to/from Velana International Airport (MLE)

    • Airport transfers if arriving outside of designated arrival and departure dates and locations noted

    • Snorkeling equipment (available for rent)

    • Scuba diving is available at an additional cost - $85 per dive or $110 for a Discover Scuba intro dive. All fees paid to the boat captain directly and equipment is provided

    • Alcohol, soft drinks, and any speciality beverages, additional snacks and meals. Alcohol and soft drinks will be available for purchase on board.

    • Tips and gratuity for tour concierge, captain, and crew ($20-$30 per day recommended)

    • Any additional excursions or optional activities not included in the itinerary

    • Visa if applicable. Free 30-day visa on arrival for U.S. and Canadian citizens

    • Any travel related medical expenses such as immunizations, vaccinations, or required Covid-19 testing

    • Travel insurance (required)

    • Personal expenses not included in the itinerary such as additional accommodations, transportation, souvenirs, etc.

  • Scuba diving is not allowed during the scheduled activities, however scuba diving can be carried out when no other activities are being conducted. There may be up to 2 - 3 opportunities to dive during the trip.

    Additional fees for diving are $85 for a normal dive or $110 for a discovery dive. Anyone diving not on a discovery dive must be OW certified and present their certification.

    The boat Capitan is a PADI certified divemaster and will be your guide.

    Equipment provided includes BCD, regulator, weights/belt. Snorkel and mask are not provided.

    Please note the boat only has 3 sets of diving gear so opportunities to dive are limited and not guaranteed.

  • Spend the week cruising the Maldives on a wooden hull gullet consisting of 4 double and 2 twin fully air-conditioned cabins, which can accommodate 8 guests onboard at a time and is fully equipped with the required amenities.

    • Air conditioned cabins, toilets with hot & cold water

    • Salon space with bar facilities

    • Outside deck with dining facilities

    • Large sundecks with sun beds

    • Fully equipped PADI dive center

    • TV/DVD/Music Library

    • WiFi is available on the boat for 2 hours each evening

  • All meals will be provided as noted in the itinerary. Please share any food allergies/sensitivities at the time of booking or reach out to share with the trip host. We always do our best to accommodate dietary restrictions but cannot make any guarantees.

    Unlimited tea, coffee and water is also included on this trip. Please bring your own reusable water bottle.

    On board the cruise, they can cater to most diets providing we are advised at time of booking. If there is something particular you eat within your diet that you can’t live without you are encouraged to pack some with you.

    Note to support their sustainable approach to cruises our tour operator does not offer beef products on board.

    Menus and meals are based on what vegetables and ingredients are available at the market. Meals are typically a mix of local and western dishes. Protein will be fish and chicken. Noodles, rice, pasta., vegetables and salads, and fresh fruit.

  • This trip requires a minimum number of ladies to register in order for it to be confirmed. Once the trip reaches the minimum participant number, you will receive a trip confirmation email and a link to be added a private WhatsApp group just for trip guests. In this group further trip details will be provided along with pre-travel support.

  • Please see our Terms of Service.

    All deposits are non-refundable at the time of booking, but may be transferable if done so within the timeframe outlined in the Terms of Service.

    Once a trip has been confirmed (no matter the booking or trip timeline), the deposit is both non-refundable and non-transferable. Please make sure you are purchasing adequate travel insurance at the time of booking to ensure you are covered in case you need to cancel.

    Please note: some of our trips have a non-refundable fee that will be stated in the trip description. Please make sure to refer to the full Terms of Service to make sure you understand fully the Cancellation Policy of each trip.

  • Women Who Explore guests will be required to follow the local Covid-19 guidelines and requirements as set forth by the local governing body of the destination being visited.

  • Travel (and medical) insurance is required for anyone traveling on a Women Who Explore adventure. Your insurance should include adequate protection for overseas medical treatment, evacuation/repatriation, your baggage and equipment and the specific activities involved on your adventure. Your insurance policy should also include specific Covid-19 cover, including cancellation and curtailment cover if you or a close relative are diagnosed with Covid-19.

    For recommended travel insurance providers click here.

    If you purchase a Travel Select plan within 15 days of your initial trip deposit made (and insure your full trip cost), you would have two added eligible benefits for no additional premium: financial default and the pre-existing conditions waiver.

  • Please note that the itinerary provided for your adventure is subject to change. While we strive to adhere to the proposed plan, unforeseen circumstances such as weather conditions, safety concerns, or other factors beyond our control may necessitate adjustments to the itinerary. We prioritize your safety and enjoyment throughout the adventure, and any modifications made will be done with careful consideration. We will make every effort to inform you in advance of any changes and provide suitable alternatives to ensure a fulfilling experience.

  • Please note that while we strive to provide an incredible wildlife experience, sightings of whale sharks, manta rays, sharks, turtles, dolphins or any specific sea life is not guaranteed. Wildlife is unpredictable, and animals may not be visible during your trip due to their natural behavior and habitat. The success of sightings depends on a variety of factors, including weather, time of day, and animal movements. We encourage you to enjoy the beauty of nature, the variety of wildlife, and the adventure of the journey, regardless of specific animal sightings you may encounter..

  • The Maldives Whale Shark Research Program (MWSRP)

    The Maldives Whale Shark Research Programme (MWSRP) is a research-based conservation charity dedicated to studying the whale shark and fostering community-focused conservation initiatives in the Maldives and the greater Indian Ocean.

    What initially began as a scientific expedition in 2006,  MWSRP has grown to become the only long-term organisation dedicated to study the iconic, yet vulnerable whale shark species in the Maldives.

    Their goal is simple: they seek to advance the field of whale shark knowledge and to advocate for sound conservation policy in the Maldives. By encouraging and valuing community and industry stakeholder participation, MWSRP are able to leverage the scientific research to safeguard the rich biodiversity and fragile marine ecosystems that are the basis for not only whale sharks, but also life, livelihood and culture in the Maldives. Find out more here.

    Save the Beach (STB)

    Save the Beach (STB) started in 2007 as a youth movement in Vilingili, now known as Villimale, to conserve the beaches there. The main activity of Save the Beach at the time was hosting a cleaning event once a year. Save the Beach has carried out environmental awareness programs on waste management and on coral restoration and also planted trees in and around Vilingili, and participated in community activities throughout this time and has since inspired many cleaning events across the Maldives.

    Save the Beach Maldives aims to conserve and maintain the beaches and reefs of Villimale and the Maldives. Led by Hassan ‘Beybe’ Ahmed who co-founded the movement along with the youth of Villingili, a conservationist from the time the first harbour was made when he noticed the reefs were dying, Beybe is the Maldives very own eco-warrior. Since its registration Save the Beach has carried out many successful projects and programmes on Villimale and other islands and is actively involved in scientific research expeditions and the development of coral restoration sites and coral nurseries. Find out more here.