Marine Conservation Cruise
8 Days Starting and ending in Male, Maldives
Visiting: Male, South Ari Atoll, Dhigurah, Central Ari Atoll, South Male Atoll, Villimale
Tour operator:
Tour code:
164
Specialist Group:
18-30 Somethings
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
1 - 12
Age range:
8-95
Special diets catered:
Request dietary needs
Trip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on a unique Marine Conservation Cruise in the Maldives, where you'll engage in meaningful conservation activities while exploring the stunning marine life and landscapes. This eco-conscious tour offers the chance to snorkel with majestic whale sharks in South Ari Atoll, participate in a whale shark research program, and enjoy the vibrant underwater world at Turtle Reef. Visit the tropical forest of Dhigurah Island, partake in a beach clean-up on a remote island, and experience traditional Maldivian Bodu Beru drumming and dancing. Stay aboard the S/Y Felicity, a Turkish-style sailing vessel, for seven nights, complete with comfortable cabins and all meals included. With unlimited snorkeling and the guidance of local experts, this tour promises an unforgettable adventure while contributing to marine conservation efforts.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1 : Arrival Transfer, Board Your Conservation Cruise
Location: Male
Accommodation Name: Cabin on board the Felicity
Meals Included: Lunch, Dinner
Upon arrival at Male International Airport you will be greeted by our representative and transferred to the MV Felicity, your home for the next 7 days. You will be settled into your cabin and given a full tour of the boat before beginning your voyage of discovery! The cruise will leave between 12 and 1pm, so you should aim to arrive into Male early this morning. If you have an afternoon arrival, we would recommend arriving at least 1 day early, to avoid missing the cruise departure.
After boarding the Felicity, you'll meet the MWSRP, the Maldives Whale Shark Research Program and cruise to South Male Atoll. Whilst cruising, you'll partake in a responsible snorkelling briefing to ensure you're fully prepared for your first underwater adventure.
You'll end the day, watching the sunset from a sand bank and meet the NGO, Save the Beach who will provide information relating to the local coral reefs and the challenges they face.
Day 2 : Snorkelling, Whale Shark Spotting, Hedhika And Dhangethi Island
Location: South Ari Atoll
Accommodation Name: Cabin on board the Felicity
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Why not start your day early, with a spot of snorkelling before breakfast. This morning we'll cruise through South Ari Atoll, home of the Whale Shark. Keep your eyes peeled for sightings of these giants of the ocean.
You'll have another opportunity for snorkelling this afternoon, whilst cruising to Dhangethi Island, where you'll have a chance to tickle your tastebuds, with local Hedhika snacks and partake in an educational session on why seagrass has become known as the lungs of the earth.
You'll end the day with another beautiful Maldivian sunset from Dhangethi Island.
Day 3 : South Ari Atoll, Whale Shark Safari
Location: South Ari Atoll
Accommodation Name: Cabin on board the Felicity
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
South Ari Atoll is very lucky to be one of few places to have an almost year round population of Whale Sharks. You'll learn about these extraordinary creatures and how indentification is made before heading out on a Whale Shark safari to capture data.
Given that whale sharks are wild, we may experience a number of sightings over a short period of time, or none at all during the time we're searching, however this only adds to the excitement and anticipation. If we are lucky enough to spot them, you'll have a once in a lifetime opportunity to snorkel alongside them, though you'll need swim fast as whale sharks can move at incredible speed.
Later, we'll collate the data we've gathered and input it into the MWSRP database which also contributes to the Big Fish Network.
Day 4 : Another Opportunity To See Whale Sharks, Visit The Tropical Forest Of Dhigurah Island
Location: Dhigurah
Accommodation Name: Cabin on board the Felicity
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
You'll have another full day Whale Shark safari today, ending the day with collating information gathered and entering in to the MWSRP database. Later today, we'll visit one of the longest islands in the Maldives; Dhigurah, where we'll take a walk through the tropical forest, learning more about the native flora and fauna.
Day 5 : Central Ari Atoll, Uninhabited Island And Beach Clean Up
Location: Central Ari Atoll
Accommodation Name: Cabin on board the Felicity
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
We'll start the day cruising through Central Ari Atoll, making stops along the way at the best snorkelling spots. In the afternoon, get ready for your 'Robinson Crusoe' experience, as we'll be visiting a remote uninhabited island. You'll also have a chance to give back today, but participating in a beach clean up.
Day 6 : South Male Atoll, Turtle Reef Snorkelling And Bodu Beru
Location: South Male Atoll
Accommodation Name: Cabin on board the Felicity
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Following breakfast cruise north back into South Male Atoll, whilst cruising the time remains yours to do as you please, relax on the sundeck, sit in the shade of the sun canopy and watch the beauty of the Maldives pass you by. In the afternoon, get ready to snorkel on the turtle reef and a visit to the island of Gulhi, where you'll witness island life. This evening there will be traditional dancing and the beat of the ‘bodu beru’ where the crew will play the 'bodu beru' - big drum and sing to a rhythmical beat until they reach a crescendo.
Day 7 : Snorkelling With Sting Rays, Visit Save The Beach Coral Nursery
Location: Villimale
Accommodation Name: Cabin on board the Felicity
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Rise at dawn for snorkelling, during your final Maldives sunrise. Later, it's time for one of the trip highlights, with a Sting Ray and Banner Fish snorkelling experience. End the day, snorkelling at the Save the Beach coral nursery on Villimale, before returning to the Hulhumale Lagoon for the final evening.
Day 8 : Departure Transfer To Airport
Location: Male
Meals Included: Breakfast
Sadly, it's time to disembark from your conservation cruise this morning. An included transfer is provided today which will reach Male Airport by 9am, therefore a departure after 12pm is recommended. If you have an earlier departure, a private transfer can be arranged for an additional charge. A range of extensions are available ranging from guesthouse stays on local islands, to time in one of the Maldives' famous luxury resorts.
What's Included
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Accommodation
6* -
Transport and Transfers
All transport and transfers are included, ensuring a seamless journey throughout the Maldives.
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Airport Transfer Service
A 24-hour airport arrival and departure transfer service is provided for your convenience.
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Meals
Meals include 7 breakfasts, 7 lunches, and 7 dinners, offering a variety of delicious options.
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Drinking Water
Unlimited drinking water is available; guests are encouraged to bring a reusable bottle.
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Snorkelling
Unlimited snorkelling opportunities are included, allowing you to explore the vibrant marine life.
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Conservation Activities
Conservation activities as per the itinerary are included, providing a chance to contribute to environmental efforts.
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Tourist Visa
A free 30-day tourist visa on arrival is available to all nationalities.
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Local Guides and Crew
Local guides and boat crew are included to enhance your experience and provide expert knowledge.
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Whale Shark Research Program
The tour is accompanied by the Maldives Whale Shark Research Program, offering a unique educational experience.
What's Not Included
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International Flights
International flights are not included but can be arranged on request.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is compulsory and not included, though it is available on request.
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Additional Meals
Meals not indicated in the itinerary are not included.
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Alcoholic Beverages
Alcoholic beverages are not included and are available from $4, payable at the end of the cruise.
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Diving
Diving is not included but can be arranged on request.
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Personal Expenses
Drinks, snacks, tips, and other personal expenses such as laundry are not included.
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Unmentioned Items
Any other items not mentioned above are not included.
More Info
The Maldives are well known for their idyllic beauty and year round sunshine. From the pristine white sandy beaches to the warm, turquoise waters this island paradise is a popular destination with young and old alike. The Maldives is also renowned for its amazing diving and snorkelling, and a large and diverse selection of water sports. This tour is available for private charter by private groups of 2 to 14 people. A range of different size and style boats are available from deluxe catamarans to larger Turkish gulet style sailing boats, all beautifully kitted out with all the amenities required to make a week's cruising around the islands as comfortable as possible. tarting in the capital, Malé, we cruise to Guraidhoo in Malé's south atoll. Here there is plenty of time to relax and enjoy the sun or take a dip in the sea. You'll also get to explore the island, including the mosque, the school and the boatyard where you can learn how the common wooden boat known locally as a ‘dhoni’ is built. We also take breakfast with a local family. You'll next cruise across to Vaavu Atoll and visit another local island for traditional Hedika (local snacks and tea) and the opportunity to tour the island. After some freetime to relax or snorkel we spend the evening hand and line fishing with local fishermen. Next it's off to a deserted sandbar and an uninhabited island, for a picnic lunch and more time to swim, sunbath or snorkel before enjoying a beach dinner ‘Robinson Crusoe’ style. Heading back towards Malé, you'll stop of to enjoy a cultural evening of special local dishes, traditional dancing and the beat of the ‘bodu beru’. Note: Sailing routes may vary depending on weather and sea conditions, but the same activities and concept will be maintained.
Mode of Transport
Travel in style with A/C car transfers and the S/Y Felicity safari boat, providing a seamless and comfortable journey throughout the Maldives.
Accommodation
Enjoy 7 nights on the S/Y Felicity safari boat, a Turkish-style sailing vessel with AC cabins, fully-equipped bathrooms, TV/DVD/music library, and sun decks, ensuring a comfortable and scenic stay.
Check out our Q&As
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What kind of activities are included in the Marine Conservation Cruise?
The Marine Conservation Cruise includes activities such as snorkelling with whale sharks, participating in a whale shark research program, visiting a tropical forest on Dhigurah Island, beach clean-up on a remote uninhabited island, snorkelling at Turtle Reef, and exploring a coral nursery on Villimale.
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Will I have the opportunity to learn about marine conservation during the cruise?
Yes, the cruise offers educational sessions on marine conservation, including learning about whale sharks and their identification, the importance of seagrass, and the challenges faced by local coral reefs.
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What is the accommodation like on the Marine Conservation Cruise?
Accommodation is provided on the S/Y Felicity, a Turkish-style sailing vessel with air-conditioned cabins, fully-equipped bathrooms, a TV/DVD/music library, and sun decks for a comfortable and scenic stay.
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Are meals included during the cruise?
Yes, the cruise includes 7 breakfasts, 7 lunches, and 7 dinners, along with unlimited drinking water.
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Is there a transfer service available for airport arrivals and departures?
Yes, a 24-hour airport arrival and departure transfer service is provided as part of the cruise package.
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What should I bring for the snorkelling activities?
While snorkelling equipment is provided, it is recommended to bring a reusable water bottle for unlimited drinking water and personal items for comfort during snorkelling activities.
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Is there an opportunity to participate in local cultural activities during the cruise?
Yes, the cruise includes cultural activities such as traditional Maldivian Bodu Beru drumming and dancing, and tasting local Hedhika snacks on Dhangethi Island.
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Is travel insurance compulsory?
Yes! Travel insurance is compulsory on all of our tours and needs to cover personal accident & liability, medical expenses and repatriation, travel delay & abandonment. We also strongly recommend that you take out cover against cancellation and lost/stolen baggage. Personal medical insurance does not normally provide sufficient cover and is generally not suitable for travel on our tours. You will not be able to join your tour if you have not provided us with details of your insurance or if you arrive without cover in place (no refunds will be due in this event).
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What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?
You are always able to change your travel date. However, some charges may apply depending on how long before your departure you make the change. Our flexible booking conditions and reduced charges will apply if you are changing date because of a Covid-19 reason or because your government is advising against travel to your destination. Please check our detailed booking conditions for full details.
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When is my balance payment due?
60 days prior to departure
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
On most of our group tours, solo travellers may choose to form a temporary 'tour bubble' and share a room with another traveller of the same sex in the group. If a room share is not available then a single room supplement may be payable, with the costs for these kept as low as possible. We have also removed compulsory single supplements from many of our tours, and are reducing the cost by 50% on s
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Can I transfer my booking to someone else?
Customers may transfer their booking or any Credit on File to another person who satisfies all the relevant conditions to the tour, provided that we are notified not less than 7 days before departure, and the transferee agrees to these booking conditions and all other terms of the contract between us. The Client and new booker are jointly and severally responsible for any outstanding payments and a transfer administration fee of GBP50 / USD75 / CAD100 / AUD100 / NZD100 / EUR75 / ZAR1000 / INR5000 or GBP100 / USD150 / CAD200 / AUD200 / NZD200 / EUR150 / ZAR2000 / INR10,000 if the transfer is made less than 60 days before departure. Important Note: Certain arrangements may not be amended or transferred after they have been confirmed (for example flight tickets, Gorilla Permits) and any alteration could incur a cancellation and rebooking charge of up to 100% of that part of the arrangements.
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Transfer as credit to Future Tours
Encounters Travel allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform encounters travel, 60 days before departure.
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Low Deposit
Encounters Travel requires a minimum deposit of 150 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of encounters travel charges.
Up to 61 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 35% of booking price.
At 41 days before tour starts: Forfeit 70% of booking price.
At 27 days before tour starts: Forfeit 90% of booking price.
At 14 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.