Joanna James
If you are looking for a destination with plenty of action-packed adventures, chances are you may not think of the Maldives, which is synonymous with laid-back island escapes. However, fellow thrill-seeker, making such assumptions would be a monumental mistake. Read on and find out why!
Few things beat the magic of watching dolphins leap and spin in the vast waters of the Indian Ocean. Set sail on a luxury yacht in search of these playful marine mammals, ideally staying at a resort with a resident pod of spinner dolphins nearby. As the sun dips below the horizon, you have the chance to catch the unforgettable sight of dolphins frolicking against a golden-hued sea. Their playful nature is infectious, and if you are lucky, they might even swim alongside the boat!
Snorkelling is one of the easiest activities to enjoy, be it right from the shore or in the waters below your overwater villa in Maldives. However, adding to the thrill of this activity is the chance to swim near sharks. Of course, don’t let your imagination run wild due to (exaggerated) movies like Jaws or The Meg, because rest assured, these are harmless and rather shy nurse sharks! Head to the Vaavu Atoll, where dozens of these sharks gather, gliding effortlessly through the water. You can explore the legendary Golden Wall with its dazzling coral as well. Also, keep an eye out for eagle rays, and if it’s the right season, majestic manta rays will make a graceful appearance.
This destination is a hidden gem for surfers looking for new destinations with epic surf breaks. With consistent swells from May to September, it’s a paradise for surfers of all levels. Stay at a resort in the South Malé Atoll for easy access to prime surf spots, or take a boat to the famous breaks in the nearby North Malé Atoll. If you are new to the sport, stay at a property with a surf school offering lessons on a calm lagoon before tackling bigger waves. For the ultimate experience, consider properties such as Anantara Veli Maldives Resort, where you can paddle straight out to a break like Veli Left… talk about living the surfer’s dream!
More discoveries beckon beneath the waves with scuba diving in Maldives, unveiling a whole new world. Glide past towering sea fans, swim with graceful turtles, and watch schools of fusiliers dance in the current. Reef sharks and spotted eagle rays make ‘guest appearances’ too. For certified divers, exploring intriguing wrecks like Kuda Giri adds a whole new level of adventure, as does the chance to go on a night dive to swim amongst stealthy nurse sharks. Ideally, stay at a resort with PADI 5-star dive facilities and fully qualified instructors catering to beginners and those looking for advanced certifications. Soon you will get the chance to experience first-hand why Sebastian (shoutout to those who have watched the Little Mermaid!) sings these lines: “Under the sea, darling it's better, down where it's wetter, take it from me!”
Fishing may not sound that ‘exciting’ for those who haven’t tried it but make no mistake, it can be an exhilarating escapade indeed. Big game fishing in Maldives means going head-to-head with some of the ocean’s fastest and strongest fish like giant trevally, mahi-mahi, sailfish, and wahoo. With an expert guide by your side, prepare for an intense battle of strength and strategy! If you would rather take it easy, try traditional bottom-line fishing at sunset. It’s a peaceful way to end the day, with the possibility of reeling in tuna, snapper, or grouper. And, as a bonus, some resorts will offer to cook your catch for lunch or dinner the next day!
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.
