Dive into the Wonders of Maldives Marine Life: A Paradise for Snorkellers and Divers

The Maldives is one of the most popular destinations in the world for diving and snorkelling. Boasting near perfect diving conditions with crystal clear waters and visibility up to 30 metres, due to the low levels of sediment and calm seas with little churn. Its little wonder that this island paradise draws nearly 1.8-million ocean lovers to its shores every year.  

Milaidhoo Maldives, located in the protected Baa Atoll UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, is one of the Maldives’ top snorkelling and dive resorts. Its UNESCO status ensures the delicate balance between human activity and conservation. Biosphere Reserve sites actively promote sustainability, environmental research and the preservation of the natural ecosystem.  

Our Ocean Stories Aquatic Centre is a proud member of Green Fins, a global organisation dedicated to the protection of Marine Life. With passion and expertise, the team champion the preservation of the underwater ecosystem, ensuring the vibrancy and sustainability of the Baa Atoll as a cherished diving and snorkelling destination. This association allows you, our guest to snorkel and dive alongside a trusted team of conservationists, which in turn means that you are part of a worthy movement that is committed to minimising environmental impact.  

Milaidhoo’s resident Marine Biologist is charged with protecting the resort’s house reef, actively taking care of it heath and ensuring its vitality for future generations. Coral planting initiatives reflect the marine biology team’s dedication to protecting the underwater environment. Coral frames are placed in shallow waters and provide a foundation for new coral colonies to grow. These thriving coral gardens are filled with varied coral species. You can join our marine biologist underwater in caring for coral fragments and can even adopt your own coral frame. 

 Additionally you can also enjoy a guided snorkelling expedition of our house reef together with our Marine Biologist. This is a unique and memorable experience as a procession of reef luminaries fight for the limelight. Green turtles glide gracefully alongside shimmering schools of blue snappers and orange and white clown fish. Spotted eagle rays are often seen overhead, while grey reef sharks weave their way through the gentle current in a choreographed dance movement. Most snorkelling experiences require patience and tenacity, but at Milaidhoo it’s more akin to an underwater Noah’s Ark with marine animals lining up two-by-two to be photographed.   

In the world there are only seven known species of sea turtles in existence, with five being found in the Maldives. Hawksbill and green turtles are the most commonly seen sea turtles and occasionally loggerhead, leatherback and endangered Olive Ridley turtles make a rare appearance. Milaidhoo takes part in a global turtle identification programme to ensure the longevity of these sea creatures. Turtles are easily identified by the intricate pattern on their heads, each as unique as a fingerprint. Our marine biology team photograph their heads and record the data which we share with the Olive Ridley Turtle Programme. 

Milaidhoo is also a proud member the Manta Trust organisation, tasked with preserving these incredible marine creatures. The marine biology team and Ocean Story master divers capture images of spot patterns found on manta’s underbellies, much like a fingerprint, and these images are shared with the Manta Trust. Our guests are invited to join us in taking photos of mantas whilst diving and snorkelling underwater.  Through these efforts, we now know that there are 5000 manta rays inhibiting the Maldives’ waters.   

These types of marine conservation efforts are inspiring a new kind of underwater diving and snorkelling experience for our guests, letting you explore the beauty of the underwater world in a profound and meaningful way. Contact us at [email protected] or call 960 660 7788 to plan your snorkelling or diving  adventure in paradise. For the latest news, exclusive offers, and to follow the story of our small island, subscribe to our newsletter.