WHALE SHARK RESEARCH EXPEDITION : TRAVEL TIPS & ADVICE
At Secret Paradise Maldives, we know that joining a Maldives Whale Shark Research Programme (MWSRP) expedition is an exciting but unique experience and it’s natural to have questions before you commit. We’ve created this FAQ to help you understand what life on board the expedition vessel MV Akoya Pearl is like and what to expect when contributing to meaningful whale shark science.
By taking part, you’ll join marine biologists in the South Ari Marine Protected Area, home to a year-round population of whale sharks with the highest natural residency rate recorded anywhere in the world. Each day you’ll head out on survey trips aboard an accompanying dhoni, help collect valuable data, and play an important role in global whale shark research and conservation, all while travelling responsibly and respecting the Maldivian environment and communities.
WHALE SHARKS & MARINE LIFE
1. What is the best time of year to see a whale shark?
South Ari Atoll hosts a year-round aggregation of whale sharks. According to our data, there is no particular peak season.
2. Will we see a whale shark every day?
Nature is unpredictable. We might spot one, three, or no whale sharks in a day. While sightings are frequent, there are no guarantees.
3. Where does the whale shark data go?
All sightings and photos contribute to local and global whale shark research. This data informs scientific studies and is shared with policymakers to help conserve whale sharks and their habitats. Information that is collected is recorded daily and you will assist in this record keeping exercise. Ultimately, all the data collected across the year goes towards forming an overview of the Maldives whale shark population and can be found in the annual report published by MWSRP. It is also used by the various government bodies of the Maldives and has contributed to the management plan launch of this MPA in 2024 to support protection of the area.
4. Can I measure a whale shark?
Measurement collection is restricted to staff under government permits. Guests can assist with photo ID and other non-invasive tasks.
5. Are there community or educational activities during the cruise?
As we are on board a vessel, community engagement is limited. Staff may arrange beach cleanups during the expedition. Participation is optional but encouraged if physically able.
SNORKELING & FREEDIVING
6. Do I need to be an experienced swimmer for snorkeling?
You should be comfortable and confident in the water, but no SCUBA certification is required. Life jackets and buoyancy aids are provided, and our expert tour leaders monitor safety at all times. The Maldives can experience strong currents, even on the calmest of days and currents may change during a snorkeling activity. It is always possible we may encounter the occasional day of rough seas and therefore an ability to swim unaided is essential.
7. How fit do I need to be for a conservation cruise?
Snorkeling trips usually last around 45 minutes, with options to exit earlier if needed. Access to the boat involves climbing a ladder from the water. The cruise is physical, with lots of swimming and snorkeling, exit from the water and back onto the boat involves a boat ladder and we also cross between our ‘home’ base Akoya Pearl and our dhoni regularly throughout the day. A good level of physical fitness is required.
8. Do I need to bring my own snorkeling equipment?
Personal snorkeling equipment is recommended, though limited gear is available for rent if arranged in advance. By bringing along your own mask and snorkel, you be assured your mask fits your face properly and is comfortable and less likely to have leakage, it will also lower any health associated risks.
9. How can I be a responsible traveler on a cruise?
Responsible travel is about enjoying your trip while minimizing your impact on the environment and supporting local communities. On our conservation cruises, you can:
– Take your non-food waste home: Recycling is limited in the Maldives, so please consider taking home plastics, packaging, and batteries.
– Respect marine life: Follow your tour leaders’ instructions when snorkeling and avoid touching or disturbing coral and marine-life.
– Support local culture: Engage respectfully with island communities and respect local customs.
– Use water and resources wisely: conserve water and energy onboard whenever possible.
By following these simple steps, you help protect the Maldives’ delicate marine ecosystem and contribute to sustainable tourism.
10. How many snorkels will we do each day?
This depends on whale shark sightings and sea conditions. Typically, snorkels last 30–45 minutes.
11. If I’m a freediver, can I wear a weight belt?
Non-staff participants are not permitted to wear weight belts for safety reasons, regardless of skill level or certification.
ONBOARD EXPERIENCE
12. What key items should I pack?
A reuseable water bottle and plenty of reef friendly sunscreen. Light clothing casual comfortable clothing, plenty of swimwear, and rash vest for sun protection. Shoes are not required, a barefoot experience onboard is encouraged. Rinse feet before boarding.
13. How many guests will be onboard at a time?
The maximum number of guests is 10, supported by 2 in-water staff and 6–8 boat crew including a chef.
14. Are towels, bedding, or sleeping bags provided?
Towels (beach and bath) and bedding are provided.
15. Do cabins have en-suite bathrooms?
All cabins have their own private ensuite shower, wash basin and toilet.
16. Is there a toilet and shower on the dhoni?
A marine toilet is available. There is a hand-held shower available to rinse off salt after swimming.
17. Is laundry service available onboard?
There is no laundry service. Guests may wash items in the cabin sink using their own ocean friendly detergent if needed.
18. Will there be internet onboard?
There is no Wi-Fi on the dhoni. Mobile data is available in South Ari Atoll, but connectivity may be poor during inter-atoll crossings. Tourist SIM cards can be purchased at the airport.
19. Can dietary requirements or allergies be accommodated?
Yes, we can accommodate dietary requirements and allergies. However, please note that the menu options on board may be more limited than what you’re used to due to supplies to the Maldives. For sustainability reasons, we do not serve beef or imported seafood; all meals are prepared using local, seasonal ingredients.
20. What type of luggage should I use?
We recommend soft luggage or backpacks, though hard cases can also be used. There is sufficient storage space in the cabins for your belongings, so you don’t need to pack excessively.
21. What type of electrical sockets are available on board?
The boat is fitted with international sockets, so most plugs can be used without an adapter.
22. Is the boat noisy at night?
TAs with all vessels, some level of noise is unavoidable. There is always one generator running to provide air conditioning, lighting, and keep freezers operational. Being a traditional wooden boat with cabins close to the waterline, you may also notice gentle movement and the occasional creak of the wood. Most guests quickly adjust to these background sounds, which become part of the authentic small-ship experience.
23. Is smoking allowed?
Smoking is prohibited in cabins, bathrooms, the lounge, kitchen, and open-air communal areas. There is a smoking area located at the bow of the vessel. Please ensure butts are disposed of responsibly in the containers provided.
24. How do I pay onboard?
Payment onboard is in cash (USD or Maldivian Rufiyaa). In Male, credit cards, USD, and local currency are widely accepted. ATMs are available in Hulhumale and the airport (local currency dispensed only).
25. What about tipping?
Tipping is a meaningful way to show appreciation for the crew’s hard work, attentive service, and dedication to making your experience memorable. As a rough guide, we recommend budgeting around USD 10–20 per day per guest for the duration of your holiday, which you may then use for tipping at your own discretion.
On the final evening of the cruise, your Tour Leader will usually advise that a tip box has been made available for the captain and boat crew and indicate its location. Any contributions placed in the box are shared exclusively among the captain and crew.
If you feel your Tour Leader has gone above and beyond, some guests also choose to offer a separate personal tip. We are proud to say that we pay our Tour Leaders a fair wage and provide a range of staff benefits; however, a small personal acknowledgement of exceptional service is always appreciated and goes a long way.
26.Are cameras available on board?
We do not provide underwater cameras for rent on board. Rental equipment is generally very difficult to obtain in the Maldives, likely due to high insurance costs versus the risk of losing gear in the ocean.
Guests are encouraged to bring their own cameras or GoPros to capture personal footage or assist with data collection photography. Charging facilities are available on board.
Our Tour Leaders focus on your safety in the water, supporting data collection, and ensuring you have a memorable experience. When conditions allow, they may also take photos, which can be shared with you if you bring your own USB device.
HEALTH & SAFETY
27. What if there is an accident?
Accidents are rare. Follow the guidelines shared by your Tour Leader. Stay alongside your snorkel buddy, and move around the boat with care. We carry emergency equipment, medical oxygen, and have access to local island health clinics. Comprehensive travel insurance is strongly recommended. Accompanying Secret Paradise Maldives Tour Leaders are EFR and Lifeguard certified.
28. Does the boat carry medical supplies?
Yes, boats have first aid kits. Guests should also bring personal remedies (e.g., motion sickness tablets, after-sun lotion, band aids).
29. Do I need to sign a health and safety waiver?
Yes. All participants are required to sign a health and safety waiver before the cruise. This ensures that you have read and understood the risks associated with onboard and water activities.
30. What safety measures are in place onboard?
Be cautious of tripping, slipping, or falling while the boat is in motion. Use handrails and move carefully. Stow belongings securely. Take motion sickness medication if needed. Stay hydrated and eat regularly to avoid exhaustion.
31. What precautions should I take in the water?
Skin diving and swimming carry risks, including fatigue, injury from marine life, or, in rare cases, drowning. Swim with marine life respectfully and maintain distance. Always follow your in-water guide and maintain visual/verbal contact. Be aware of other vessels and surroundings. Enter the water only when instructed after the safety briefing.
32. What if I have medical conditions?
Disclose all medical conditions fully on your booking form. Basic first aid is available onboard and health clinics are available on nearby local islands.
33. Are there risks for shore-based activities?
Yes. Risks include accidental injury, dehydration, sunburn, heat exhaustion, and mosquito-borne illnesses. We recommend that you wear suitable clothing and footwear. Use reef-safe sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses. Stay hydrated and take breaks as needed.
TRAVEL LOGISTICS
34 Are there recommended arrival and departure flight timings?
We recommend arriving in the Maldives by 08:00 on the day of your cruise to allow time for immigration and baggage collection, ensuring you can meet the group by 10:00 midday. On departure day, the group will leave the boat at 06.00, arriving at the airport around 09:00. Allow a minimum of two hours for check-in, noting that airport check-in opens three hours before flight departure time. If you have an earlier flight, we can arrange a private transfer by vehicle at an additional cost.
If you require accommodation before or after the cruise, please contact us and we will be happy to assist.
35.How do I get from the airport to the boat and back?
The vessel is moored in Hulhumale lagoon on arrival day and overnight on day seven prior to departure day. Airport transfers are included on arrival and departure days. A Secret Paradise tour leader will meet you at the airport. Transfers are made as a group, typically at midday. Your final pre-arrival email will include exact meeting times.
36.Do you recommend organizing pre cruise accomodation?
Many guests find it helpful to arrive a day earlier, and we’re happy to assist with booking accommodation in Hulhumale. This extra night removes the stress of tight connections or unexpected delays, and gives you the chance to acclimatise, enjoy a restful night’s sleep, and start day one feeling refreshed and ready to make the most of your time in the Maldives.
Ready to Join the Research Team?
Becoming part of an MWSRP research expedition isn’t just a trip it’s an opportunity to contribute to global whale shark conservation, and experience the Maldives in a way few travellers ever do. If you’re ready to combine adventure with purpose, secure your spot with a $500 deposit here.
