Giants of The Maldives 🇲🇻

This is for anyone who dreams of witnessing the largest known gathering of manta rays on Earth and swimming alongside whale sharks in tropical waters. Every year, Hanifaru Bay in the Maldives becomes the stage for one of the ocean's most extraordinary natural spectacles, with manta rays gathering in incredible numbers to feed.

We take you right into the heart of this experience, exploring the waters of Baa Atoll with a small group and experienced local guides. Between encounters, enjoy beautiful coral reefs, tropical island life and beachside evenings. A true once-in-a-lifetime ocean adventure.

✕ International flights, travel insurance, a hotel night in Malé if you arrive a day early, the optional photo package, alcoholic drinks (not available) and personal expenses (souvenirs and tips).

We recommend arriving in Malé 1 day early, especially if you come from far away, and booking a hotel close to the airport. Same-day arrival is possible, but at your own risk. On day 1 the group meets at Malé airport and flies together to Dharavandhoo, most likely early afternoon. We arrange this domestic flight and the cost is included. A Maui expedition leader picks you up at the Dharavandhoo airport terminal and brings you to your island home. Settle in, meet the group, and end the day with a sunset swim and a welcome beach BBQ with Boduberu drummers, under the full moon.

Two big days on the water right after the full moon, when the strong tides push plankton into Hanifaru Bay and dozens (sometimes hundreds!!) of mantas come to feed. Whale sharks and dolphins often join on the way.

Two reef stops with turtles, eagle rays and reef sharks, and a BBQ lunch on a picnic island.

Beach, pool or freediving practice in the morning, then out on the water in the afternoon for the sunset dolphin cruise.

One more manta and whale shark excursion, then an afternoon on a sandbank in the middle of the ocean and the farewell dinner on the beach. On day 7: early breakfast, then back to Malé together by domestic flight, booked by us. Exact times follow closer to departure. Departure 2 (Aug 25th – 31st) has the same program in a different order, with the manta days saved for the new moon at the end of the week.

Fly into Malé (MLE). We recommend arriving 1 day early, especially if you come from far away. Book a hotel close to the airport for that night (not included). Arriving on the same day is possible, but at your own risk. On day 1 the group meets at Malé airport and flies together to Dharavandhoo. We arrange this domestic flight, there and back, and the cost is included. The flight will most likely be early afternoon, the exact time follows closer to departure. If you miss the group flight, the next flight is at your own cost. Pickup point: Dharavandhoo airport terminal, where a Maui expedition leader picks you up.

You need to be comfortable swimming in open water. Whether it’s your first time snorkeling or you’re more experienced, we adapt everything to your comfort level.

White sand at your doorstep, the ocean a few steps further. A boutique beachfront stay: intimate, unhurried, and all (healthy) meals included during the expedition, so you never have to think about a thing.

Yes. Professional pictures and videos of the group are included. On request: a full week private photo package, just for you.

If you want to spend as much time as possible in the water with the wildlife, we're your best option. We work with the best local guides, and if you love taking pictures or being in them, for Instagram or just for yourself, you're in exactly the right place.