Maldives Tours
Maldives Sea Turtle or Manta Ray Conservation Cruise
Join this Maldives Sea Turtle or Manta Ray Conservation Cruise. You will increase your knowledge on marine conservation while having a great time!
Maldives Sea Turtle Conservation Cruise
Embark on a cruise of discovery and make a positive impact on the marine life of the Maldives. This Sea Turtle or Manta Ray Conservation cruise is focused on citizen science. Therefore, it is a unique itinerary for everyone with a passion for turtles, manta rays, the ocean and responsible travel.
Our local partner has joined forces with The Olive Ridley Project (ORP). This mission-driven organisation is dedicated to protecting sea turtles and their habitats. It does so through rescue and rehabilitation, scientific research, and education. You cruise the waters of South Male and Vaavu Atoll on board MV Felicity. While you enjoy the breathtaking beauty of the Maldives, you'll also actively contribute to the conservation of these incredible creatures.
Your expert local tour leader works together with the Olive Ridley Researcher. First, they introduce you to five out of seven sea turtle species that make the Maldives waters their home. They also share the challenges turtles face and the crucial role of seagrass in conservation efforts. Then participate in snorkelling data collection trips and contribute to meaningful beach cleans. You can also enjoy enchanting sunrises and sunsets. As a result, you become an active participant in preserving the Maldives' marine life.
Day By Day
Your Itinerary
DAY 1
Welcome to the Maldives
Your tour leader meets you at Male International Airport. Then transfer by dhoni to board the MV Akoya Pearl. After that, set off for Maafushi in South Male Atoll for your first underwater encounter. This includes a safety briefing on responsible snorkelling. Later, in the evening, hear a presentation on the vital role of coral reefs and the threats they face.
Overnight in MV Akoya Pearl
DAY 2
Cruising in the Maldives
First, visit Maafushi to discuss the impact of tourism on small island nations. Then explore a coral rehabilitation site and witness coral propagation. After that, snorkel the seagrass beds to discover their importance to the ecosystem. Finally, cruise further south through South Male Atoll. Meanwhile, the Olive Ridley Project researcher shares information on turtle species, biology and behaviour.
Overnight in MV Akoya Pearl · Meals included: Full board
DAY 3
Snorkelling for Turtles
Start with an early morning snorkel in search of turtles, using photo identification. This is a non-invasive method for studying marine population dynamics, because each turtle's facial profile is unique. Then cross the channel into Vaavu Atoll for two more snorkelling opportunities at reefs where turtles are commonly seen. Meanwhile, you assist the researcher in gathering data on size, behaviour and markings.
Overnight in MV Akoya Pearl · Meals included: Full board
DAY 4
Uninhabited Islands
Enjoy a morning snorkel searching for turtles among the Maldives' colourful coral reefs. Keep an eye out for sharks and rays too. In the afternoon, visit an uninhabited island, nesting grounds for turtles. Here you learn about their breeding and nesting habits and the threats they face. Afterwards, there is a beach clean-up and a special BBQ beach dinner under the stars.
Overnight in MV Akoya Pearl · Meals included: Full board
DAY 5
Sea Turtle Habitat
This day focuses on snorkelling and gathering turtle data. The aim is to understand population size, critical habitats and migratory routes. Green and Hawksbill turtles are the two most frequently spotted, although both are in decline. Then, in the afternoon, learn about protecting turtle habitat and reducing bycatch. You also learn about the rescue and rehabilitation of turtles caught in ghost nets.
Overnight in MV Akoya Pearl · Meals included: Full board
DAY 6
Gulhi Island Maldives
Cruise back towards Male, continuing turtle data research while snorkelling and encountering a variety of fish species. Then, in the late afternoon, visit the local island of Gulhi. It is home to the oldest dry dock boatyard in the Maldives. Finally, in the evening, enjoy a Maldivian-themed night on board featuring a Bodu Beru musical performance.
Overnight in MV Akoya Pearl · Meals included: Full board
DAY 7
Adopt a Turtle?
Enjoy a final snorkelling session to capture the last turtle data. Afterwards, spend the afternoon reviewing the trip's findings with the Olive Ridley Project researcher. If lucky, you may also get to name a newly identified turtle. Alternatively, you could adopt one of the turtles you've encountered.
Overnight in MV Akoya Pearl · Meals included: Full board
DAY 8
Goodbye to the Maldives
Departure to Male International Airport.
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Know Before You Go
Included & Excluded
What’s Included
Airport and transfer assistance
Return transfer by dhoni (airport – MV Akoya Pearl – airport)
7 nights standard cabin accommodation on the boat, based on single or double/twin share
Services of an English-speaking tour leader plus the Olive Ridley Project's sea turtle expert
Full board meal plan – breakfast, lunch, snacks, high tea and dinner (7 breakfasts, 7 lunches and 7 dinners)
Unlimited tea and coffee (house coffee)
Unlimited drinking water – bring your reusable water bottle!
Dinghy or dhoni transfer to snorkelling points
Local tax (10% service charge, 17% GST and $12 green tax per person per night)
What’s Not Included
International travel to the start and end point – contact us for information and flight options
Any airport taxes
Travel insurance
Any visa requirements
Items of a personal nature
Alcoholic and soft beverages purchased on board
Snorkelling equipment
Tour Map
Book With Confidence
Dates & Prices
Availability and room types on board are limited, so please contact us for the latest update.
Prices shown are per person, based on double or twin room occupancy. Get in touch if you’d like to check availability or discuss a private departure on different dates.
Good to Know
Travel Information
Safety, Passport, Visa and Health Information
We strongly recommend that you check your government's travel advisory for up-to-date information and advice about your destination. For example, it covers safety and security, entry requirements, health, local laws and customs. For UK citizens, check the latest Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office advice for the Maldives.
If you enter the Maldives as a UK tourist, you'll be granted a 30-day visa on arrival. Your passport must also be valid for a minimum of one month. However, most airlines require at least 6 months' validity from your date of entry. Therefore, check with your transport provider. Finally, ensure your passport has no damage, or immigration may stop you.
The Maldives has very strong anti-drugs laws. In fact, severe penalties include life imprisonment for importing or possessing drugs. Because this is an Islamic country, public observance of any religion other than Islam is prohibited. Same-sex relations are also illegal and carry lengthy prison sentences. Therefore, respect local traditions, customs and dress codes at all times, especially during Ramadan or near mosques. Alcoholic drinks are only available on resort islands, so do not take them elsewhere.
What to Bring
Bring lightweight, casual, non-synthetic clothing, because cotton and natural fibres are best. It should cover the body appropriately when you are in the company of local communities. In other words, it doesn't need to be fancy, but it needs to be respectful, particularly on local islands. Sandals and flip-flops are the ideal footwear.
Please allow yourself one main piece of luggage and a day-sack. You're expected to carry your own baggage, so don't overload yourself. For example, a soft wheely bag may be easier to manage than a suitcase. We also recommend a sunhat, sunscreen, a torch, insect repellent, a reusable water bottle and a power adapter. The Maldives mostly uses UK 3-pin sockets. In addition, bring your own snorkelling equipment. Finally, pack earplugs if you're a light sleeper, as they are especially useful on board a boat.
While You're There
The Maldivian Rufiyaa is a non-convertible currency, so you cannot purchase it beforehand. However, you can easily exchange major international currencies at the airport on arrival. The US Dollar is also widely accepted as legal tender. In addition, you can use all major credit cards at resorts, hotels and shops. On local islands, though, cash is generally preferred.
The Maldives has a tropical climate year-round. The dry season (northeast monsoon) runs from January to March. Meanwhile, the wet season (southwest monsoon) runs from mid-May to November. However, rain showers tend to be short rather than prolonged. The Maldives is on GMT+5, and wifi is available at most guesthouses. Signal strength can vary, though, given the island cabling.
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