Whale sharks in the Maldives

Dive into a world of whale sharks in the Maldives.

Renowned for its pristine waters, fascinating underwater topography, and vibrant marine life, the Maldives is a destination that should be on every diving enthusiast’s bucket list. The Maldives is also where the world’s largest fish – the whale shark – awaits you. On Emperor Explorer’s designated itineraries, you can dive into the world of whale sharks and discover the magic of these gentle giants.

Our luxurious yacht Emperor Explorer takes you to some of the most breathtaking dive sites in the Maldives, where you can encounter whale sharks, manta rays, turtles, and so much more. What better way to explore this sharky underwater wonderland than on a liveaboard? Book now and experience the thrill of diving with whale sharks in the Maldives.

Why do whale sharks aggregate in the Maldives

The Maldives is home to one of the largest aggregations of whale sharks in the world. But why do these gentle giants flock to these waters? Several factors contribute to this phenomenon, including the abundance of plankton, nutrient-rich waters, and the unique geography of the Maldives. The currents that flow through the atolls create a perfect environment for plankton to thrive, which in turn attracts the whale sharks.

Whale sharks collect in predictable seasonal aggregations across the tropics. The Maldives, specifically the South Ari Atoll and the Northern Atolls, gathers the largest schools and provides a reliable opportunity to witness this incredible natural event up close. You will be able to marvel at the beauty of these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.

When to see whale sharks in the Maldives

The Maldives is a year-round destination for liveaboard scuba diving, and there are two distinct seasons in the atolls. The best time to see whale sharks is during the Southwest season from May to October. Rain during this season causes a massive build-up of plankton, drawing hundreds of whale sharks. Though the visibility is decreased, whale shark sightings are nearly guaranteed. This is also manta feeding season so there are usually more mantas during these months.

During the Northeast season, from November to April, the nutrient-rich waters also attract vast numbers of plankton, which in turn attracts whale sharks. However, not as many as in May to October. The visibility is at its best during this time, making it an ideal time for underwater photography.

About scuba diving in the Maldives

The Maldives is an archipelago of 26 atolls, located in the Indian Ocean. It is home to over 1,000 species of fish, 21 species of whales and dolphins, and several species of sharks, including whale sharks, hammerheads, and reef sharks. The crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and abundant marine life make it one of the best diving destinations in the world. Whether you’re a novice or an experienced diver, the Maldives has something for everyone.

About Emperor Explorer

Emperor Explorer is the ultimate liveaboard vessel for scuba diving in the Maldives. This luxury boat is equipped with all the amenities you need for a comfortable and unforgettable diving experience. With spacious air-conditioned cabins, top-class facilities, and a team of experienced guides, Emperor Explorer offers an incredible scuba diving adventure in the Maldives.

Aboard this vessel, we offer diving enthusiasts the chance to experience all areas of the Maldives through four distinctive liveaboard itineraries: Best Of; Deep South; Sharktastic; and Northern Hi-Lights. Our experienced dive guides will ensure that your dive experience is safe, informative, and unforgettable.