July 20 to 27 2024
October 12 to 19 2024
The temperate ocean waters of the Maldivian atolls are home to the highly intelligent and largest rays in the world, the manta rays. We invite you to join us as we explore the coral-reef equivalent of our onboard spa—the manta ray cleaning stations.
On this journey, we'll delve into the behaviors and habitats of these highly cognitive sea creatures, all while discovering how you can contribute to the protection of these highly threatened beings.
Throughout daily dives and explorations on the western side of the atolls, you'll also partake in ocean talks from guest speakers of local NGOs, engage in PADI Specialty courses, and enjoy entertainment. You’ll leave not only having experienced the wonders of devil fish but also made a significant impact on the conservation of these creatures fundamental to our marine ecosystems.
Overview
Best of Maldives Itinerary: Male - Vaavu - S Ari - N Ari - Male (no domestic flight required).
This itinerary is planned to maximize our chances of encounters with manta rays while visiting some of the best dive sites the central Maldivian atolls have to offer.
Dive into the most renowned manta ray locations and discover the lesser-known cleaning stations. You will see the most breathtaking coral formations the central atolls have to offer, featuring channel dives and a diverse marine ecosystem coexisting with graceful mantas.
Between dives, you will have participate in workshops that will help you better appreciate the behavior of these fascinating creatures before jumping in the water with them.
This trip includes a visit to South Ari atoll, a popular hotspot for whale sharks too!
On top of daily diving you'll experience:
- PADI AWARE Specialty courses: Manta Awareness, Dive Against Debris, and more.
- Project AWARE Specialty course: INCLUDED (theory-only).
Love Ocean Talks
Manta Talks: Join us for a series of engaging presentations to learn about the anatomy, physiology, behavior, and conservation status of manta rays. You’ll discover how to identify individual mantas and the personal actions you can take to protect them.
PADI AWARE Specialty courses
PADI Manta Awareness: Explore deeper into the grace and beauty of these infamous manta rays. Learn about them as a species, the threats they face, how to follow the code of conduct around manta cleaning stations, and what you can do to help conserve them. (To earn this PADI Specialty Certification, you must be at least 10 years old and certified as a minimum Junior Open Water Diver).
AWARE Dive Against Debris: If you want to make a difference on every dive, this course is for you. In this course, you'll learn about the widespread problem of marine debris and leave with the knowledge and skills to help tackle it. Start protecting our blue planet by clearing local dive sites of trash and completing crucial Dive Against Debris surveys. After the cleanup dive, we will weigh, sort, and record our findings so you can submit your first survey results to Project AWARE. (To earn this PADI Specialty Certification, you must be at least 12 years old and certified as a minimum Junior Open Water Diver).
Project AWARE: In this interactive workshop, you'll learn how to channel your passion for diving into protecting the dive sites you love the most. This course provides simple diving ethics to live by and teaches you how to make a difference when traveling, diving, taking photos, and more. This course only requires a keenness to learn.
Movie nights
If you're looking to recharge and unwind while still reveling in the magic of these graceful, gentle creatures, join us on the spa deck to learn more about manta rays and their ecosystem.
Join us in reveling in the remarkable 'Andrea: Queen of Mantas,' the story of Andrea Marshall, a 30-year-old who changed the world of marine biology, giving up everything for a life observing the largest population of manta rays in the world.
Next up, we have 'Majestic Mantas,' following scientists from the Pacific Manta Research Group as they study their local manta ray population. The documentary also showcases the impact of microplastics and other toxic trash on these mysterious fish.
Other events
Immerse yourself in the camaraderie aboard our floating resort and partake in an evening of engaging narratives and delicious fare during our manta ray-themed dinner.
If you fancy yourself a budding photographer, join our Manta Ray underwater photo contest, where you'll compete to capture the iconic 'manta train.' We also have 20 manta trivia cards waiting to be found around the boat.
If you're ready to take the plunge and not only share experiences with these magnificent sea creatures but also make a lasting impact on their conservation, we can't wait to welcome you aboard.