The Maldives ranks among the top five places in the world for whale and dolphin watching. With over 20 different species to be spotted wandering the crystal clear waters of Maldives, it is no surprise that a lot of people travel thousands of miles from their homeland to see these marvelous creatures.

Spinner Dolphins in Maldives

Whale and dolphin species in Maldives range from the large and mighty Blue Whale to the acrobatic Spinner Dolphin. Spinner dolphins highly occur in Maldives, with tens of thousands of them to be spotted. These creatures follow a very dependable schedule which makes them easy to spot. Doing offshore feeding during the night, Spinner Dolphins cruise inside the atolls in the morning and leave for the open ocen in the late afternoon. Spinner Dolphins are rather common in Maldives as most resorts offer dolphin excursions for their guests.

Whale and Dolphin Watching on a Maldives Safari Boat

Honestly speaking, the best way to sight whales and dolphins in Maldives is by safari boat or liveaboard.  While some boats or dhonis in Maldives specialize in taking guests to the best scuba diving coral reefs, others provide magnificent sightings of various whale and dolphin species. Species that commonly occur during these safaris include the Blue Whale, Sperm Whale, Pilot Whale as well as seven different types of dolphins which are the Spinner, Bottlenose, Risso’s, Spotted, Striped, Fraser’s and Rough-toothed.

Book a Maldives holiday now and be fascinated with the marine life rich waters of this tropical paradise. The Maldives is undoubtably the best place for Whale and Dolphin watching!

• Overall Rating No Ratings
• Value for Money No Ratings
• Location No Ratings
• Atmosphere No Ratings
• Food Quality No Ratings
• Accommodation No Ratings
• Activities No Ratings
• Service No Ratings
• Scuba Diving No Ratings

Rihiveli Maldives Resort Review

The Rihiveli Maldives Resort is an exceptional holiday destination, located on a private island, in the South Atoll of the Maldives.  The Rihiveli Maldives island resort is surrounded by spectacular turquoise waters, powdery white sand beaches and swaying palm trees.  This is a superb place to come if you are looking to escape from the world, rekindle romances and relax.  Nevertheless, don’t think that your time at Rihiveli Maldives will be boring, because there are so many activities here, it is up to you how little or how much you do each day.

Rihiveli Resort Island in the Maldives

Rihiveli Maldives Resort Description

Rihiveli Maldives is located 47 miles from the Male international airport, and is thus accessible by a one-hour speedboat ride.  The island is home to 48 bungalows of varying styles and sizes, catering to a variety of clientele and budgets.  The resort has an unusual ‘No News, No Shoes’ policy, which encourages guests to relax in an environment unsullied by modern-day stresses. Stripped of external trappings and superficiality, guests are invited to go back to the basics – to the core of communal living.  That is the philosophy of the Rihiveli Maldives Resort.

Rihiveli Maldives Resort is ideal for:

• Couples
• Watersports Enthusiasts
• Nature Lovers

Rihiveli Maldives Resort Room Types:

There are 48 beach bungalows in total at the Rihiveli Resort in the Maldives, divided into the following categories:

• Double/Twin Bungalow
• Triple Bungalow
• Deluxe Bungalow
• Family Bungalow
• Deluxe Villa
  

  Rihiveli Restaurant

Rihiveli Maldives Resort Room Facilities:

• Ceiling fans
• En-suite bathroom, with indoor and outdoor showers
• Terrace
• Garden with hammock
• Two sun beds and beach umbrella

Rihiveli Maldives Resort Facilities:

• All meals are included in the full-board package at the over-water restaurant
• Fun Bar
• Internet Access
• Safety Deposit Box
• Telephone and fax
• Wake-up call (essential if you don’t wish to miss your early morning dive trips!)
• Free laundry (for people travelling to Male as an extension from another destination eg. Sri Lanka)
• Free Hair dryer available at the Front Desk
• Library
• Boutique
• Entertainment Room
  

  Rihiveli Beach

Rihiveli Maldives Resort Activities:

• Scuba Diving
• Kayaking
• Catamaran sailing
• Windsurfing
• Dhoni sailing
• Water skiing/mono skiing
• Wakeboarding
• Knee-boarding
• Snorkelling
• Island Visits
• Overnight Scuba Diving Safaris
• Fishing

Rihiveli Maldives Resort Contact Information:

Telephone: + (960) – 6643731/6641994
Web: www.rihiveli-maldives.com

The Lily Beach Resort & Spa is one of the top destinations in Maldives, guaranteed to make your holiday memorable and relaxing. Reached by a short seaplane ride from the Male Airport, a luxurious holiday at the Lily Beach Resort in Maldives is best described in two words, captivating and breath-taking.

The Lily Beach Resort & Spa is the first island resort in Maldives to offer an ‘All Inclusive’ package. Located in the South Ari Atoll in Maldives, the resort is also famous for its nearby attractions. There are numerous islands accessible from the Lily Beach Resort to be explored. Dive spots near the Lily Beach Resort in Maldives are known for its exotic and abundant marine life.

Maldives Lily Beach Resort ‘All Inclusive’

For a superior and flawless holiday, the Lily Beach Resort & Spa’s ‘All Inclusive’ package is definitely the way to go. The best resort service professionals will attend to your needs during this luxurious holiday in Maldives. The Lily Beach Resort’s ‘All Inclusive’ is designed to delight you with premium brands of wines and spirits, as well as satisfy your appetite with sumptuous gourmet dishes and international cuisines.

The ‘All Inclusive’ package offered by the Lily Beach Resort Maldives includes unlimited cocktails and signature drinks, a ration of alcoholic beverages allowing you to choose from a variety of premium brands, and so much more. This one-of-a-kind offer also provides its guests with a visit to an uninhabited island in Maldives, breakfast/lunch/dinner buffets, afternoon snacks, free internet/wi-fi access, access to sports/fitness facilities, snorkeling equipment, and service for tons of activities.

Spend your dream holiday at the Lily Beach Resort & Spa Maldives and you’ll surely have an unforgettable experience! For more information about this resort, click here.

Maldives Dive Sites

The following is our definitive guide to the five best Maldives Dive Sites. At these Maldives Dive Sites, you can expect to see some of the finest marine life in the world.

Maldives Dive Site #1 – Fotteyo Kandu

Many scuba divers consider Fotteyo Kandu to be the best Maldives dive site and it is also rated among the top 5 dive sites in the world. The mouth of the channel is exposed to the ocean and during north east monsoon when the currents are incoming, a good variety of fish species gather at the entrance to the channel.  Animals commonly spotted at Fotteyo Kandu include Gray Reef Shark patrolling the channel mouth, Jack and Tuna in the deeper water, schools of Midnight Snappers and Red Snapper form in huge groups. The wall features caves, overhangs and swim-thoughs at different depths. These caves and overhangs are filled with colourful yellow color like soft coral, deeper caves and overhangs are filled with huge bushes of black corals. The Thila in the middle of the channel entrance is the best place to do the safety stop.  A surface balloon is a must at Fotteyo Kandu.

Maldives Dive Site Fotteyo Kandu

Maldives Dive Site #2 – Maaya Thila

Maaya Thila is one of the best Maldives dive sites for a night dive. The dive boat is usually fixed to the mooring and a line is used for the ascent and descent for safety reasons.  A strobe light is attached to the rope at 5 meters to identify the rope underwater.

On the Maaya Thila night dive, divers get to experience swimming close to White Tip Reef Sharks. Turtles rest inside caves / overhangs, while Moray Eels and White Tip Sharks hunt the vulnerable Fusiliers. Octopus and Stone Fish can be found around the top reef. The caves where the crevices are found are the ideal place for people who are interested in macro photography. Here you will find Cleaner Shrimps, Ghost Pipe Fish and many more seldom-seen species.

Maldives Dive Site Maaya Thila is a Reef Shark Hotspot

The Maaya Thila night dive is a must for all scuba divers visiting the Maldives and is a one-of-a-kind dive.

Maldives Dive Site #3 – Rangali Madivaru

Madi in the local language of the Maldives, means “Ray”, hence the name Madivaru for this Maldives dive site, which is also known as Hukrueli Faru.  During the North East Monsoon, Madivaru is a superb Manta Ray cleaning station. The coral reef slopes down gently from its highest point at 8 meters to the Atoll floor at about 30 meters.

There are many cleaning stations along this 1 km reef, but the point where the Manta Rays are most active is halfway along the northern side. Current at Madivaru can be strong at times and can create a funnel effect due to the coral reef formation.  Divers should be prepared to make a safety stop in open water at Madivaru and a safety balloon is necessary.

Manta Rays Gather at Maldives Dive Sites

Maldives Dive Site #4 – HP Reef

If you were asked to choose the best Maldives dive site between HP Reef and Nassimo Thila, the wise thing to do would be vote for both and rank them both equally as they are two of the most spectacular sites in the Maldives. Both HP Reef and display excellent soft coral growth and an abundant fish life. The best diving at HP Reef is found on the southern side of the reef and when the current is flowing into the Atoll (East to West). During mild current, you should swim slowly, while observing the coral blocks, caves and overhangs. The coral blocks and the caves at HP Reef are filled with multicolored soft coral and you should keep your eyes open for the many invertebrates, including nudibranchs, leaf fish and many more. Eagle Rays, schooling Silver Jacks and Batfish are common at HP Reef.  Strong currents are sometimes found at this Maldives dive site and a surface balloon is necessary.

Maldives Dive Site #5 – Nassimo Thila

Nassimo Thila is an oval-shaped Thila displaying a good variety of colourful, soft corals. The most interesting aspect of this Maldives Dive Site is the randomly scattered pinnacles. Spend as much time as possible around the scattered pinnacles but limit your depth to maximize bottom time as the scattered pinnacles go down to more than 30 meters.

Currents at Nassimo Thila are usually strong, so it is only recommended for advanced divers.  Depending on the strength of the currents, many pelagics can be seen near the coral reef at Nassimo Thila or in the deeper water just off the reefs, including Giant Trevallies, Jacks, Dogtooth Tuna and many more. A surface balloon is a must as this Maldives dive site is subjected to heavy boat traffic from the nearby resort island

Click here for a complete guide to Maldives Dive Sites.

Nassimo Thila is an oval-shaped Thila displaying a good variety of colourful, soft corals. The most interesting aspect of Nassimo Thila is the randomly scattered pinnacles. Spend as much time as possible around the scattered pinnacles but limit your depth to maximize bottom time as the scattered pinnacles go down to more than 30 meters.

Currents at Nassimo Thila are usually strong, so it is only recommended for advanced divers.  Depending on the strength of the currents, many pelagics can be seen near the coral reef at Nassimo Thila or in the deeper water just off the reefs, including Giant Trevallies, Jacks, Dogtooth Tuna and many more. A surface balloon is a must as the dive site is subjected to heavy boat traffic from the nearby resort island.

Imagery ©2009 DigitalGlobe, GeoEye, U.S. Geological Survey – Terms of Use

Social Bookmarking

• Overall Rating No Ratings
• Value for Money No Ratings
• Location No Ratings
• Atmosphere No Ratings
• Food Quality No Ratings
• Accommodation No Ratings
• Activities No Ratings
• Service No Ratings
• Scuba Diving No Ratings

Summer Island Village Review

The Summer Island village is based on the tri-angular shaped island of Ziyaaraifushi in the outer rim of the North Male’ Atoll which is about 22 miles from the Male’ airport and only 10 minutes away by plane or 90 minutes by boat. Either way guests can expect spactacular views of the island.

Summer Island Village in the Maldives

Summer Island Village Resort is ideal for:

• Couples
• Families

Summer Island Village Resort Room Types:

• Standard Rooms
• Water Villas
  

  Summer Island Village Water Villa

Summer Island Village Resort Room Facilities:

• Fan
• Hot/cold water
• Air-conditioning
• Hair dryer
• Sea view
• Telephone
• Mini safe
• Hair dryer
• Mini fridge
• Satellite TV

Summer Island Village Resort Facilities:

• Serena Spa
• Dive Centre
• Restaurant
• Bar
  

  Summer Island Village Beach

Summer Island Village Resort Activities:

• Volleyball
• Badminton
• Darts
• Table tennis
• Scuba Diving
• Windsurfing
• Catamaran Sailing
• Kayaking
• Sunset Sailing
• Island Hopping
• Shopping Trips to Male
• Night Fishing
• Snorkeling
  

Summer Island Village Resort Contact Information:

Telephone:+960-6641949
Web: SummerIslandVillage.com
Email: reservations@summerislandvillage.com.mv

The Maldives Republic Square is a fascinating structure that is beautifully designed with carpet green grass and lush greenery. Located in the Maldives capital city which is Male, the Republic Square is a famous place for social gatherings and relaxation. It is also a popular evening hangout for teenagers, and a few steps away where the official flag post of Maldives proudly stands. This permanent flag is the largest in Maldives.

Maldives Attractions Near The Republic Square

Found along the northern waterfront of Male, the Maldives Republic Square was built in 1989. Before this majestic landmark was stood on Maldivian ground, it used to be vacated by various government offices prior to their relocation.

There are a couple of commercial areas and tourist spots near the Maldives Republic Square. This is also the place where you are most likely to get out of you boat from the resort. South of the Maldives Republic Square is the famous Islamic Centre and the National Security Service headquarters. Head east and you’ll find the police headquarters of Maldives. The Presidential Jetty is to be located in the sea-ward side.

The possibilities are endless and there are numerous places to visit in the tropical paradise of Maldives. Book that holiday you’ve always been wanting and enjoy special discounts!

Eriyadu Island Resort Maldives is a majestic structure surrounded by a sparkling clear lagoon and lush vegetation. Located at the North Male Atoll, the Eriyadu Island Resort is only a few minutes away from the Male International Airport in Maldives by seaplane.

Sheer comfort and ultimate privacy offered in Eriyadu Island Resort Maldives makes it an ideal destination for a romantic getaway or a honeymoon. This is a place where you can genuinely escape the stresses of urban living. The 57 luxurious villas in Eriyadu Island Resort Maldives are fully equipped with modern amenities including a private veranda and an open-air bathroom.

Activities in the Eriyadu Island Resort Maldives

There are tons of activities you can do during your stay at the Eriyadu Island Resort Maldives. With some of the best dive spots in Maldives nearby the island, a scuba diving experience in this five star resort is an undertaking that you’ll never forget.

The dive center in Eriyadu Island Resort Maldives offers scuba diving certification courses as well so there is no need to worry if this is your first time to do such activities. Snorkeling in the house reef is a good alternative to diving that will allow you to explore the fascinating marine species and coral growth in Maldives.

For non-divers, there are endless activities that can be enjoyed. These include water skiing, night fishing, sunset cocktail cruise, island excursions, and so much more!

For more information about this luxurious island resort in Maldives, click here.

Moorish Idol

The majestic Zanclus Cornutus, more famously known as the moorish idol, is one of the most popular fish among saltwater aquarium enthusiasts all over the world. The only member of the Zanclidae family, the moorish idol is commonly sighted in the exotic Indo-Pacific waters. The moorish idol is often mistaken for a butterfly fish, due to some very similar features.

Moorish Idols

Moorish Idol Habitat

Despite its popularity among aquarium hobbyists, the moorish idol, like most fish, is best suited in its natural habitat, particularly because of the creature’s acute sensitivity to water temperature. Commonly found in depths of 3m to 180m in both clear and cloudy waters, the moorish idol is usually spotted swimming alone because of its tendency to fight with other moorish idols.

Moorish Idol Appearance

Adult moorish idols grow to an average lengy of 4-6 inches, although some can reach up to 9 inches. Its distinct features are a long dorsal fin end with thread-like tip, long snout, three bold black bands over the eye to ventral fins, rear body and on the tail.

Moorish Idol Diet

In its natural habitat, the moorish idol is usually found on flat reefs preying on sponges, tunicates, and other small invertebrates to satisfy its rather indifferent appetite. In captivity, the moorish idol can be a far pickier eater.

Moorish Idol Behaviour Toward Scuba Divers

Moorish idols are quite harmless marine creatures and safe to dive around with.  The moorish idol is not an endangered species and as such is not on the IUCN list  of threatened species.

Social Bookmarking

The Island Safari 2 Royal Liveaboard in Maldives is best described in two words, luxury and comfort. Launched in 2007, this brand new ship gives a homey feeling to its guests for well-deserved rest and recreation in Maldives paradise.

There are a total of eight guest cabins and two presidential suites in the Maldives Island Safari 2 Royal Liveaboard, all of which are fully equipped with modern amenities for sheer comfort and privacy. The Island Safari 2 Royal Liveaboard can accommodate up to 20 guests at a time, touring the best dive sites and unspoiled beaches in Maldives.

Maldives Liveaboard Diving in the Island Safari 2 Royal

Dive to your heart’s endless desire in Maldives with the Island Safari 2 Royal Liveaboard and its team of scuba diving professionals. As long as you have your Open Water Certification at hand, this state-of-the-art vessel will lead the journey through the most abundant coral reefs of Maldives waters. If you haven’t dived for quite some time, a refresher course can also be provided.

The Maldives Island Safari 2 Royal Liveaboard is accompanied by a dhoni for the task of carrying out dive activities. This actually makes scuba diving the spectacular waters of Maldives much easier as you don’t have to go back and fourth for your dive equipment. The dhoni is also equipped with safety and navigation tools such as a DAN emergency kit, GPS, and oxygen.

A Maldives Dive Safari in this exceptionally fascinating cruise ship varies depending on dive season and conditions. Guaranteed to show its guests the most exotic dive locations in Maldives, a luxurious getaway aboard the Island Safari 2 Royal is simply captivating and breath-taking.

For more information regarding the Island Safari 2 Royal Liveaboard, click here!

Turtles in Maldives, just like other populations of these creatures across the globe, are highly threatened with extinction. The Maldives government and other environmental organizations have cooperated in implementing policies for the protection of these endangered species.

Kinds of Turtles in Maldives

There are five species of Turtles in the Maldives. The most commonly occurring species of turtles in Maldives are the Green and Hawksbill. Rarely spotted is the Leatherback turtle and does not nest on Maldivian waters. The other turtle species found in the Maldives is the Loggerhead and Olive Ridley.

Maldives Turtles Feeding and Habitat

Varying species of turtles also vary in diet and feeding. Green turtles in Maldives are purely herbivorous, while the Loggerhead feast exclusively on invertebrates. Living on coral reefs, the Hawksbill has a mixed diet of invertebrates and sea grass. The Olive Ridley feeds mainly on crustaceans.

Threats to Turtle Populations in Maldives

The Government of Maldives prohibited catching and killing of turtles in the country since 1995. Banning import and export trade of turtle materials as well, the government has long ago launched a television ad campaign that signifies the importance of protecting the turtles in Maldives.

Explore the rich underwater life of Maldives and be fascinated with turtle sightings as you go scuba diving in this tropical paradise! Click here to book a Maldives holiday now and enjoy special discounts!