Joanna James
Snorkelling off the Maldivian islands will come across as a wonderful escapade overflowing with the richness and diversity of these oceans where marine habitats abound in their number.
It is given that the Maldives is a reputed destination for all forms of water sports that can be tried out throughout the year. However, the period which covers the months of December to April when northeast Monsoonal rains arrive parallel to the dry season is by far, the most ideal time to schedule a snorkelling trip to this part of the world. Though, you will have sunny spells and the odd rain shower to deal with, understand that accommodation prices will be sky-high as the mentioned timeframe is the height of the local tourist season.
Starting prices for a snorkelling excursion in the Maldives have been known to hover around the USD 50 mark which one ought to know is a per head cost. While this figure may appear a tad pricey to some vacationers, understand that first-time snorkellers will stand to benefit from a host of perks including the finest equipment, boat transfers and access to the best destinations that will get you up, close and personal with the marine marvels of the archipelago. Additionally, be well placed to make allowance for changing costs as it is the norm for vacationers to pay higher fees when based at private island resorts. Therefore, prior to making reservations, it is mandatory to discuss your itinerary with the resort or hotel of your choice and inquire as to whether snorkelling equipment can be rented out for free.
Accessible via a 45-minute seaplane ride from Male is Lhaviyani Atoll which comes complete with a reputation for being one of the best of its kind for snorkelling. Made up of 54 islands, crystal clear turquoise oceans, house reefs and shallow lagoons to swim into, Lhaviyani Atoll is a destination that one ought not to miss out on when you desire to learn the ropes of snorkelling. Next up are the coral islands that comprise the Male Atolls with both the North and South appearing as worthy contenders to be included in your bucket list. Reputed for offering sightings of sharks, sea turtles and manta rays, these Atolls are a snorkeller’s dream come true. In fact, should you decide to spend time within the North Male Atoll in the Maldives, snorkelling excursions can be planned out at one’s own pace from the comfort of Kurumba Maldives. From here, one can look forward to embarking on guided house reef tours so that you acclimatise to the conditions that would serve as a springboard to accessing the nearby lagoon.
Even if you do come to the Maldives with some knowledge and experience, it is still wise practice to listen intently to your guide or instructor. Thus, as a newbie, it would be unthinkable to avoid listening to expert advice as the tips you gather will surely come to your aid once you descend towards the ocean floor. During a lesson, you will be educated on the importance of behaving in a way that safeguards the reefs, corals and all species concerned.
Swimming has very little to do with snorkelling and for those not well equipped in the former, know that you must only be able to put on a mask, and some fins and be a good listener whenever your instructor directs your paths.
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.
