A tropical paradise that is surrounded by the azure waters of the Indian Ocean, the Maldives offers travellers an idyllic coastal getaway. Made up of around 1,200 islands, this charming holiday destination boasts of pristine beaches where one can just sit back and soak up the sun. Apart from its beaches, the Maldives is also blessed with a rich marine biodiversity making it the perfect spot for those who enjoy snorkelling.
This simple water based activity can be enjoyed by young and old alike and is not hard to learn. Snorkelling basically requires a diving mask which gives one a large field of vision underwater and a snorkel which is a tube like object that protrudes above the water and lets one breathe while being partially underwater. Fins are also important since they let one move easily in the water.
Apart from having crystal clear waters, the Maldives is also home to a diverse and colourful reef system along with over 700 species of fish and marine life forms that make it an excellent destination for snorkelling. Many of the island resorts have house reefs that are within easy reach of the shore and offer lots of opportunities to witness this enchanting world beneath the waves.
Due to the particular water currents that surround the Maldives, a wide range of species frequent its waters including Butterfly fish, Sweetlips, Dogtooth Tuna, Wahoo, black and white Snappers, Unicornfish, Barracuda, Trevally Jacks and even such rare creatures as the Napoleon Wrasse. Different reef systems in the Maldives offer different snorkelling experiences and the deeper one goes the more it changes.
Apart from a colourful array of small and medium sized fish, one can also witness larger marine creatures in these waters depending on the location and time of year one visits. Octopuses, eels, rays, turtles and even sharks can be spotted when on a guided snorkelling adventure and offer an unforgettable underwater excursion.
One will find a wide range of
Maldives hotels on various islands that make ideal bases from which to go snorkelling. Those planning to
travel to Maldives and looking for luxurious accommodation can choose from the hotels offered by the John Keells Hotels Group.
