How to Snorkel Safely in the Maldives: Tips for Beginners

The Maldives is an extraordinary destination with so much to offer for water sports enthusiasts. An archipelago with over 1,000 coral islands, this beautiful country is surrounded by the Indian Ocean. Water sports like snorkelling are popular in Maldives. In fact, the country draws travellers from across the world with the enticing promise of water sports. If you’re new to snorkelling but want to give it a try during your upcoming holiday in Maldives, this guide is for you.

Is snorkelling safe in the Maldives?

Yes, it is safe to snorkel in the Maldives; you have nothing to worry about. However, you need to make sure that the general safety precautions are followed to the dot. Here are some key safety tips to remember:

• Check the weather conditions before snorkelling. Calm and clear days are the best, as high winds and rough seas can increase risks.
• Consider snorkelling with a group or join a guided snorkelling trip.
• If you’re not a confident swimmer, consider wearing a life jacket.
• Keep away from marine life such as sea urchins and jelly fish.
• Drink plenty of water and wear sunscreen.

Accommodation for Snorkellers

Resorts in the Maldives are part of the allure. If your list of activities to do in Maldives comprise mainly of water sports, make sure to stay at an island. Check out Adaaran Resorts to get an idea of what an island resort in the Maldives is like.

While staying at a guesthouse might be cheaper, it doesn’t afford you the privileges and amenities you have access to at a resort. Some of these resorts even offer guided snorkelling trips.

Best Time to Visit

The Maldives is a year-round destination. However, to make the most of your vacation, visit during the dry season. The dry season runs from November to April. These months bring the perfect conditions for snorkelling. Lower humidity, sunny days, calmer seas, and less frequent rainfall set the stage for a memorable snorkelling experience.

Keep in mind that this is also the peak season for snorkelling due to the ideal weather conditions. You might encounter higher prices and more crowds. If you prefer a quieter experience, however, the shoulder months like late April to early November might offer a good balance between good weather and fewer tourists.

Where to Snorkel in the Maldives

The Maldives is home to a wealth of exceptional snorkelling spots, scattered across numerous atolls and islands. These are some of the top snorkelling spots in the Maldives:

• Baa Atoll: A UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, Baa Atoll is famous for its abundant marine life, especially during the manta ray season from June to November.
• Ari Atoll: With the promise of rich biodiversity and clear blue waters, Ari Atoll attracts both snorkellers and divers. It’s a great spot to see a variety of sharks, including whale sharks, as well as turtles and exotic fish species.
• Rasdhoo Atoll: This atoll offers the clearest water in the Maldives. The area is known for its reef sharks, manta rays, and the occasional hammerhead shark.
• North and South Malé Atolls: You can easily get to these atolls from Malé, the capital city of the Maldives. They offer an array of snorkelling sites with an abundance of marine life.

What Can You See Underwater?

You’re in the Maldives, a place where marine life thrives; you can see almost anything. Turtles, manta rays, reef sharks, and dolphins are some of the most common encounters. Plus, the variety of coral reefs found underwater is spellbinding.

Know Before You Go

The Maldives is a beautiful country that’s welcoming to tourists. You can have loads of fun here. Whatever you’re thinking of, you’re sure to find it here. However, the Maldives is also a conservative country. So, modest clothing is advised. Swimsuits aren’t permitted at public beaches, but you can don your favourite swimming costume at your resort.