Whale Shark and Manta Snorkelling in South Ari
Overview
South Ari Atoll is one of the few places on earth where you can look for whale sharks on any day of the year. The South Ari Marine Protected Area has the highest rate of repeat sightings of any whale shark hotspot in the world, because the same animals return again and again.
The boat leaves Dhigurah early and cruises the outer reef while the crew scans for the shadow of the world's largest fish. Most sharks here are juveniles, around six metres long. When one is spotted you slip into the water with your mask and fins and swim alongside it as it cruises past.
Depending on the season and conditions, the trip may also visit a manta cleaning station, where reef mantas with three-metre wingspans circle while small fish clean them. Your guide gives a full briefing on how to swim with the animals without disturbing them, and you're back on Dhigurah in time for lunch.
Highlights
- Look for whale sharks on any day of the year
- Swim alongside the world's largest fish
- Manta cleaning station when conditions allow
- Early start, back for lunch
- Marine-protected area with responsible guidelines
What's included
- Boat trip with crew and guide
- Mask, snorkel and fins
- Drinking water
- Wetsuit or rash vest
- Tips
Request this tour
Send us your dates and a SkyRay advisor will confirm availability and price.
Frequently asked questions
No. These are wild animals in open water, so sightings depend on the day and the sea conditions. Crews know where to look and usually find plenty of marine life.
No. Keep a few metres away, never touch or chase the animal, and don't use flash. Your guide will explain the code of conduct before you get in.
Around Dhigurah, reef mantas are seen year-round on dives, and they are often in the lagoon from about January to April. Snorkel sightings vary from year to year.
