As one of three known filter feeding shark species, whale sharks feed primarily on plankton, but scientists have recorded them eating schools of small fish. Whale sharks live mainly in tropical areas such as Maldives, but they have been spotted around the world. In Maldives, the average whale shark measures between four to eight meters. The best areas to dive with them in Maldives includes:
Ari Atoll
- Lux* Maldives
- Rangali
- Sun Island
Who Can Help to Find the Sharks?
In 2015, TripAdvisor awarded LUX* Maldives Resort with the Traveler’s Choice Award. An award that honors the world’s best hotels. Travelers—the people who know the hotels best—select their favorites. The award has been based on millions of unbiased real reviews. In addition to the Traveler’s Choice Award, LUX* Maldives Resort also received an award for the Leading Family Resort in 2014.
Fascinating Facts: Whale Sharks
Scientists in Maldives are carrying out an admirable research program referred to as the Maldives Whale Shark Research Program. Scientists use the shark’s spot pattern to identify specific sharks. Similar to each human having a unique fingerprint, researchers all agree that the best place to identify a whale shark is behind the gills. The great thing about these magnificent creatures is that people can see them year round. However, here are statistically the most likely times to view the whale shark:
- Three to Five Hours Before High Tide
- The Week That Builds up to Full Moon
- November, December and May
Visiting Ari Atoll, Lux*, Rangali and Sun Island
With its massive reefs, Rangali provide tourists with a great chance of encountering both manta rays and whale sharks. However, Rangali is considered the second best place to spot whale sharks. On the southern side of Sun Island, there is a reef in the Indian Ocean with a plateau, and it is one of the best places to see whale sharks. The depth in this area ranges from five to 10 meters, which makes it much easier to spot these gentle giants. To the south of Ari Atoll, many divers consider the location one of the best for finding whale shark, manta rays, hammerhead sharks and other pelagic fish. Ari Atoll topographically differs from other areas in Maldives in that it does not feature a long stretch of barrier reef.
Why Dive with Whale Sharks?
Whale sharks have a head like a car hood and spectacular spots. In addition, they swim near the surface, so people can snorkel or dive with whale sharks, depending on their preferences.
Each time people encounter whale sharks, the emotions they experience are the same: Exhilaration. LUX* Maldives provides divers with a dream destination. They will see Butterflyfish, Oriental Sweetlips, turtles, dolphins and whale sharks. With their five-star PADI IDC Dive Centre, their programs provide people with the country’s most experienced instructors, and programs that have been tailored for all ability levels. In addition, the local artists, wandering street food vendors and vibrant live music ensure that people never get bored in Maldives.