Joanna James
Maldivian archipelago spread across the Indian Ocean consists of over a 1000 islands. Water activities are plentiful and varied offering you a chance to enjoy action both above and below the waves.
Glass bottomed boat rides are ideal for enjoying the bounty below the waves; without getting wet. The boats are equipped with glass panelled bases that allow passengers to see beautiful corals and marine life just below the boat. Ideal for tourists unable to get on the water to enjoy the best of the coral atolls, these boat services are available across the archipelago.
Maldives offers a variety of surfing destinations. Beckoning both professional and amateur surfers the islands offers excellent breaks for you to enjoy some adrenaline pumping action. Just a short speed boat ride from your luxury Maldives hotel these surf destinations are found at some of the most stunning locations on the island. Alternatively, you could hook onto a Surf Safari and tour the islands surfing at both popular and lesser known destinations.
Diving is the Maldives is very rewarding. Home to some of the world's best dive locations, the coral atolls are surrounded by verdant thila's and reefs that make diving a first class treat. A typical dive in the warm waters surrounding the archipelago will reward you with sights of elusive whale sharks, reef sharks, giant manta rays, barracuda, swordfish, tuna, turtles, moray eels, colourful coral formations, sea anemones and beautiful tropical fish exuding a myriad of colours. Banana Reef was one of the first dive spots to establish Maldives as a diving destination; the place is still the most favoured with the North and South Ari Atolls close to Kandolhu Island Maldives offering an intense experience. Maldives diving is so popular that most luxury resorts feature an in-house dive school offering amateur divers aged 10 and above a chance to acquire PADI certification and enjoy the wonders below the waves.
Snorkelling can be enjoyed by anyone with swimming skills. You don't need special equipment or special abilities to enjoy the colours below the waves. Simply rent out a snorkel and fins and set off right from the beach of your Maldives resort. The coral atolls are always abounding in a variety marine life and spotting the occasional sea turtle is quite a treat. The corals that grow up to the surface are home to various little fish that dart in and out of the sea plants. Your best experience would be to join a snorkelling safari that will take you across the best coral reefs for a fine day of snorkelling, swimming and picnicking on sand bars and isolated islands. Choose a tour with a reputed operator that comes recommended by the hotel or decide to book the tour with your hotel's tour desk, if the service is provided.
As a fisher nation, Maldivians are professionals in the art of fishing. Many resorts or private clubs offer big game fishing to both amateurs and professionals. Expert guides will ensure you don't return disappointed no matter the skill level. Besides the waters are abounding in tuna, barracuda, swordfish, napoleon wrasse and much more making it virtually impossible to return empty handed. Sunset fishing is a romantic affair; set off into the folds of the Indian Ocean as the sun dips behind the horizon. Later as the stars come out you can fish for silvery fish under the light of the moon.
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