When looking at the finest dive sites in the world, Fuvahmulah Atoll in the Maldives ranks right up among the best – especially if it’s sharks you are after.
This distinctive destination stands out as, unlike others in the country, it is a single-island atoll which means it is surrounded by deep waters on all sides and without a ring of smaller islands.
This geography lends itself to an environment teeming with marine life because of direct exposure to the nutrient-rich currents that flow around the island – which means the diving is extraordinary. These currents support a thriving marine ecosystem and attract an abundance of pelagic species.
Tiger sharks are perhaps the most iconic visitors and they frequent the waters off Fuvahmulah year-round. But there is also the chance to encounter the likes of hammerheads, thresher sharks, whalesharks, and oceanic manta rays, making each trip underwater a thrilling and unpredictable experience.
Indeed, guests on board Emperor Leo were recently treated to an unforgettable encounter with a mako shark. One of the ocean’s fastest (they are capable of reaching speeds of up to 45 mph) and most elusive predators, this incredible shark is a rare, and very special, sight.
Located south of the equator by the matter of just a few miles, Fuvahmulah has such a diversity of nature – both on land and in the water – it has earned the nickname ‘Galapagos of the Maldives’ and is recognised as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. It possesses unique plant species, rare birds, and waters that are full of life. It also has, of course, those famous white Maldives beaches.
Understandably, therefore, it features prominently on our itineraries in this area of the country. The Southern Shark Adventure and Deep South trips explore this section of Indian Ocean when it’s at its finest between December and March.
They are always in-demand itineraries, both because they are crammed full of amazing experiences and due to the number of spaces available being limited as the window in which we explore the south is fairly small.
So get in while you can. It’s definitely worth booking yourself a holiday you will never forget and joining us to sample the delights of Fuvahmulah.
If you would like more information about, or want to book a place on, our amazing Maldives itineraries contact our team on [email protected] and they will do everything they can to help.
Please note: At Emperor, we believe in providing as authentic an experience with nature as possible. We do not believe it is appropriate to chum/bait for, nor feed, sharks and therefore will not dive or promote the experience known as “Tiger Zoo” in Fuvahmulah Atoll. We dive Fuvahmulah and regularly encounter Tiger Sharks there, as well as at other spots on our itineraries, and we believe these offer a far more natural experience.