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South Ari Atoll: One of the best places to see whale sharks
The whale shark is the largest and heaviest fish ever seen in our oceans, and its existence dates back to more than 65 million years. Yet, we still know very little about these mysterious gentle giants.
Despite the broad distribution of whale sharks in tropical and subtropical areas of the globe, there are only about 20 locations where regular sightings of these creatures have been reported in coastal areas, including the Maldives, South Africa, Mozambique, Mexico, Belize and Australia, and the majority of these locations represent seasonal “feeding aggregations” for whale sharks, which are seen only for a few months each year.
In contrast, whale sharks are year-round residents of South Ari Atoll in the Maldives, which is a Marine Protected Area (SAMPA), making this a very special place. Maafushivaru is blessed to be located in such a unique part of this beautiful island nation indeed. Snorkelers and divers are frequently surprised by the colossal and magical presence of this iconic species, with the vast majority of encounters happening very close to the surface.
There are a few global facts we know about whale sharks. They are gentle, slow-moving filter feeders, feeding mainly on zooplankton, and the largest on record was reportedly 20 metres in length with a mouth that can be up to 1.5 metres wide! They can live up to 100 years, and interestingly enough, each individual whale shark has a unique pattern of spots and stripes, much like a human fingerprint, which can be used to identify it.
Out of the over 9,700 whale sharks identified in the global whale shark database, around 2/3 are juvenile males. Sightings of females and adults of both sexes (and babies) are very rare. Very little is also known about their reproduction and life history, and no one has yet seen a whale shark mating or giving birth! Whilst we still lack information about the global whale shark population, the species is considered endangered, having suffered a population decline of more than 50 per cent in the past three generations according to International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).
Maafushivaru collaborates with the Maldivian Whale Shark Research Project (MWSRP), a non-profit organisation, which carries out whale shark research to understand their population dynamics in the Maldives. Every time the resort takes its guests snorkelling or diving with whale sharks, ID photos and sighting data are submitted to the MWSRP. This means everyone can participate as a “citizen scientist” and help with the global conservation of this threatened species.
These collaborations have allowed the MWSRP to identify 391 whale sharks in the Maldives, of which 86.2 per cent are juvenile males. In addition, the data indicates that re-sightings of individual whale sharks at SAMPA are very high and over long periods of time. For example, the individual whale shark WS071 has been seen 238 times in 10 years. Therefore, SAMPA appears to offer a critical habitat and a global significant aggregation of whale sharks in the pre-mature stage, which shows no seasonality.
In the last couple of months, the team at Maafushivaru has had 10 incredible encounters with whale sharks in South Ari Atoll, including a few re-sightings, during snorkelling and diving safaris. The team has also been very lucky to identify a new juvenile male, which had not been previously registered in the MWSRP database. His name is Javaahiru (jewel in the local language Dhivehi) and it has been seen twice in two months!
Diving and snorkelling with these gentle giants is not only a truly breathtaking experience but also a unique opportunity to contribute to the much needed conservation of these amazing creatures.
Set in the picturesque South Ari Atoll and accessible by a scenic seaplane flying over the breathtaking archipelago of Maldives and its mysterious atoll formations, Maafushivaru is an island that charms guests with its dazzling turquoise lagoon, knitted with lush flora and wide sandy beaches. A stone’s throw away is Lonubo, its very own exclusive-use desert island, all set to provide couples with an intimate island experience.
The resort, which is managed by leading local resort operator Universal Resorts, offers a choice of three distinct villas. Beach Villas sit on the postcard perfect beach with views out to the sea, while the chic Water Villas offer panoramic views of the Indian Ocean. Families or friends travelling together will find the Pool Villas ideal as they come with two separate villas with a shared private pool. All villas are fine-tuned with hints of modern architecture and design.
Maafushivaru’s main restaurant overlooks the lagoon and offers a buffet of international and local flavours. 135° East is a contemporary Teppanyaki and Sushi restaurant with its own overwater pavilion. The Library Lounge coffee shop serves a range of tea and specialty coffees. There is also bar and a wine chiller.
Get ready for a unique sporting experience in paradise! Meyyafushi Maldives, the highly anticipated new resort from the owners and operators of Fushifaru Maldives, has teased an extraordinary amenity on its social media channels: an overwater padel tennis court. Set to open in October 2025, Meyyafushi Maldives is already generating buzz, and this innovative addition is sure to elevate its appeal.
Building on the established success of Fushifaru Maldives, known for its intimate atmosphere and stunning natural beauty in Lhaviyani Atoll, Meyyafushi Maldives promises a similar commitment to exceptional hospitality and unforgettable experiences. While details about the new resort have been gradually unfolding, the recent reveal of the overwater padel tennis court marks a significant and exciting development.
Padel tennis, a popular racquet sport that combines elements of tennis, squash, and badminton, is gaining traction globally. However, Meyyafushi Maldives is taking the game to a whole new level – literally. Imagine the thrill of a friendly (or perhaps a fiercely competitive!) match with the breathtaking backdrop of the turquoise Maldivian waters stretching out beneath the court. The social media post showcasing the court hints at a truly exceptional spot to engage in some active fun with loved ones while soaking in the unparalleled scenery.
This pioneering amenity underscores Meyyafushi Maldives’ dedication to offering distinctive and memorable experiences for its guests. It signals a resort that is not only focused on relaxation and natural beauty but also on providing unique and engaging activities. The overwater padel tennis court is poised to become a signature feature, attracting sports enthusiasts and those seeking novel ways to enjoy their Maldivian getaway.
As Meyyafushi Maldives gears up for its October 2025 opening, the introduction of the first overwater padel tennis court in the Maldives adds another compelling reason to anticipate its arrival. This innovative amenity promises a memorable and picturesque sporting experience, further solidifying the resort’s position as a noteworthy addition to the Maldivian hospitality landscape.
Ifuru Island Maldives has announced its participation in the inaugural Burunu Boma Sport Fishing Tournament, taking place from 2 to 4 May 2025. Organized by the Visit Maldives Club (VMC), this premier event aims to position the Maldives as a leading destination for sustainable sport fishing.
As one of the select resorts competing in this prestigious tournament, Team Ifuru Maldives will showcase its commitment to marine conservation and responsible tourism. The competition emphasizes “catch and release” practices, aligning with global efforts to preserve marine biodiversity.
Participants will target species such as marlin, sailfish, mahi-mahi, yellowfin tuna, wahoo, swordfish, and bigeye tuna, with a grand prize of USD 25,000 awarded to the top-performing team. The event also features live entertainment and a festive atmosphere, celebrating the Maldives’ rich fishing heritage.
“We are thrilled to be part of Burunu Boma and to represent Ifuru Island Maldives in this landmark event,” said Marcel Sawyer, General Manager at Ifuru Island Maldives. “Our participation underscores our dedication to sustainable practices and our passion for the ocean that surrounds us.”
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Sirru Fen Fushi to host ‘One Ocean, One Breath’ with Freedive Maldives to mark World Oceans Day
Sirru Fen Fushi – Private Lagoon Resort, invites ocean lovers and adventure seekers to a purposeful World Oceans Day celebration in partnership with Freedive Maldives, Guinness World Record Holder for the Most People Performing Static Apnea held last October 2022.
Set against the breathtaking backdrop of one of the largest natural lagoons and house reefs in the Maldives, the event promises a deep connection to the ocean through expert-led PADI Freediving courses, ranging from basic to advanced levels. Participants will have the opportunity to earn their freediving certification, explore Sirru’s 9-kilometer-long house reef, and admire vibrant marine biodiversity, including manta ray cleaning stations, nurse shark points, flourishing coral gardens, and turtle habitats, home to 93 resident turtles and 11 successful hatchings this year alone.
“Our house reef, one of the longest and most vibrant in the Maldives, is a sanctuary for marine life and a symbol of our deep commitment to ocean conservation,” said Lukasz Prendke, General Manager of Sirru Fen Fushi. “We are honoured to collaborate with Freedive Maldives in celebrating World Oceans Day, not only to offer our guests an unforgettable underwater journey, but also to empower local talents and inspire our community to protect what lies beneath the surface.”
The initiative aligns with the resort’s ongoing sustainability commitments, including regular lagoon cleaning programs and support for local marine conservation efforts. This collaboration further emphasizes a shared mission to preserve the Maldives’ rich underwater heritage and engage the local community in meaningful environmental action.
In a broader commitment to sustainable tourism, Freedive Maldives has also signed a partnership agreement with the Baa Atoll Council to host another record-breaking freediving event in October 2025, coinciding with World Tourism Day, reinforcing Baa Atoll’s position as a leader in eco-conscious marine tourism.
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