Joanna James
While the Maldives is renowned for its stunning beaches and luxurious overwater villas, the paradise isles offer an array of unique activities and adventures tourists might be surprised to find in this part of the world. Here are 8 unusual and exciting activities visitors can enjoy in the Maldives.
Although the beauty of Maldivian beaches and coastlines is well documented, the otherworldly atmosphere of the country’s underwater landscapes is an aspect that’s largely appreciated by scuba divers and snorkellers. Maldivian restaurants, however, have capitalised on the exoticism of this hidden landscape by creating underwater restaurants accessible to all. Home to not one but several underwater dining hotspots, submerged restaurants such as the Ithaa Undersea Restaurant and the S.E.A Restaurant have become prime attractions for foodies as well as marine life enthusiasts.
Those based at Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives or any similar Maldives private island resort that organises shark snorkelling tours can also sign up for this daring activity. While it may not be for the faint of heart, those with a passion for wet and wild encounters with majestic sea creatures can enjoy this once-in-a-lifetime encounter with the archipelago’s most fascinating marine species during this excursion.
Ideal for those who wish to experience the coral gardens and marine heritage of the Maldives without donning a wetsuit, submarine cruises on the Whale Submarine are easily accessible to holidaymakers based near Male. Diving into the depths of the Maldivian sea bed, this one-of-a-kind ride in a submarine brings visitors face to face with the beauty of the country’s marine environments.
Although fishing tours are accessible in most beach capitals around the world, night fishing is a unique after-dark activity that’s open to those who are holidaying in the paradise isles. While it may be one of the most underrated things to do during a getaway to the Maldives, nighttime fishing trips offer visitors the chance to relax and enjoy their favourite pastime under the stars instead of the warm daylight hours.
While the Maldives is not an Asian culinary powerhouse that enjoys the popularity of Thailand or India, travellers might be surprised to find that the traditional cuisine of the islands is as delectable as it is healthy. Using fresh seafood ingredients in nearly every curry and snack, there’s no better way to explore the gamut of the local canon than with a food tour in the nation’s capital.
Environmentally conscious travellers heading to the Maldives will be delighted to find that participating in beach clean-ups and sea turtle rescue programs are not the only conservation activities they can take part in during a sojourn in the islands. Coral planting initiatives launched by NGOs and resort-based environmental organisations are always on the lookout for tourists with diving/snorkelling capabilities who can lend them a hand in this valiant effort to restore bleached reefs.
Although this is a tour option that’s only available to those visiting the island during the peak travel season, whale and dolphin-watching safaris should be reason enough to alter your travel plans. Setting out in the morning and afternoon hours, these cruises are perfect for families with a passion for blue whales and those who have a hankering to interact with mischievous dolphins.
As a relatively new water sports accessory that’s revolutionising how travellers can glide across ocean waters while also reaching great depths, sea bobbing is another activity visitors might be excited to find in local tour operator itineraries. These “diving scooters” are touted to replace jet skis in the years to come as they also have the capacity to navigate underwater terrains.
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.
