Joanna James
While you can freely enjoy snorkelling in Maldives by yourself, with the family or your partner, you do have the option of going on specific trips or excursions too; they can sometimes include guided escapades that offer even more enriching snorkelling experiences like those mentioned below.
A house reef is a coral reef that can be found near private island resorts in Maldives; most of these reefs are easily accessible from the shore making them a great choice to explore for beginners too. Some properties will offer guided snorkelling of their house reef which is ideal since guides will know all the key features of such underwater marvels and the best times to visit. Depending on the area, you have a chance to see vibrant coral as well as species like palette surgeonfish, oriental sweetlips, clownfish, bannerfish and more.
There are plenty of snorkelling hotspots further afield that make for some fascinating excursions in Maldives. Island resorts that offer private snorkelling trips are ideal for those wanting to witness more marine marvels beneath the waves; as part of the experience, you will be transported by boat accompanied by a knowledgeable captain and guide who will take you to some of the best spots. Be it intriguing Napoleon wrasse, slow-swimming turtles or magnificent manta rays there is much to encounter while snorkelling in the Indian Ocean.
For something truly special, nothing beats going snorkelling at night; it is quite a different way to enjoy the "nightlife"! Resorts the likes of Huvafen Fushi Maldives offer this night-time activity where you can see nocturnal marine life come out after the sun has set. You can look forward to encountering a diverse array of species which can include lionfish, octopus and lobster to name a few. Depending on the resort, you will also have the option to utilise yellow mask filters and special UV lights; this provides a great way to see bioluminescent reef organisms too.
Amongst the other snorkelling-based things to do in Maldives is to take a trip to a coral garden. Remember, fish species are not the only underwater attraction to witness as the ocean waters are also home to diverse corals in various shapes, sizes and colours. Some resorts will provide excursions aboard a traditional boat called a dhoni that will take you to specific sites where such coral gardens can be found. Sea fans as well as leather, staghorn, table, brain and lobe corals are just some of the coral varieties that may be seen.
Certain resorts will also offer private charters on luxury yachts to places where you can snorkel above pristine reefs. This is well-suited for a large family or group and provides the perfect private excursion. Some resorts will also provide rental of digital cameras and high definition video equipment such as a GoPro so you can capture all those amazing underwater encounters. The great thing is, these private yacht charters can encompass more than just snorkelling and can include visits to local islands or even another atoll.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
