Whaleshark madness 🇲🇻

Baa Atoll, Maldives 🇲🇻
·
Sept 9th–15th 2026
·
7
days •
6
nights
Show all photos
About this expedition
Welcome to Maldives' best-kept secret: Hanifaru Bay during the September full moons, when hundreds of mantas and whalesharks gather under the full moon. We head out daily with a small crew for ocean safaris and island culture with plenty of time to enjoy your beachfront stay. You’ll come for the giants, stay for the daily blue-water adrenaline, and leave with new friends!
If you’re someone who seeks more than just a holiday, someone who values meaningful experiences, genuine connections, and a sense of adventure, then this expedition is for you. We’re looking for open-minded, positive, and curious individuals who enjoy being part of a small, like-minded group and are excited to share unforgettable moments both in and out of the water. You don’t need to be an expert, but you should feel comfortable in the ocean, be willing to participate in group activities, and embrace the rhythm of island life. We expect everyone to be respectful of nature and contribute to a warm, inclusive group dynamic.
Itinerary
Disclaimer: this itinerary is tentative — nature leads, we follow.
Day 1: Welcome to Malé!
We welcome you in Malé and transfer by speedboat to your island home in Baa atoll. Settle in, meet the group, and ease into island life. Sunset swims and a fresh ocean BBQ with your new friends.
Day 2: Whale Shark Waters & Dolpins
Your first full day on the ocean. We explore the feeding grounds of whale sharks and dolphins which are present here year-round. Optional photography session in the afternoon
Day 3-5: Manta Madness and beach BBQ
Timed with the full moon, we head to Hanifaru Bay to witness one of the ocean’s rarest events: dozens (sometimes hundreds!!) of mantas feeding in a single place. Evening beach bonfire under the stars.
Day 6: Reefs, Rays & Free Time
We explore vibrant coral reefs filled with turtles, eagle rays, and reef sharks. The afternoon is yours: rest, journal, edit photos, or join a freediving or marine biology workshop.
Day 7: Dolphins & Farewell
Early morning Dolpin cruise and after lunch the speedboat takes you back to Malé!
💡 This expedition can be combined with Orca & Lyngen (Jan 2027) — ask us about booking both.
What's included
7D/6N Beachfront stay pool
Daily Ocean Excursions (UNESCO Biosphere Reserve)
Airport speedboat pick-up & full board freshly meals
Video and photography masterclasses
Show not included
International flights, travel insurance, alcoholic drinks and personal expenses.
Things to know
What’s the best way to get there?
Fly into Malé (MLE). We’ll take care of the speedboat transfer to the island and guide you through every step in advance.
How experience do I need to be?
Basic swimming skills are enough. Whether it’s your first time snorkeling or you’re more experienced, we adapt everything to your comfort level.
What is the stay like?
White sand at your doorstep, the ocean a few steps further. A boutique beachfront stay: intimate, unhurried, and full-board so you never have to think about a thing.
Price from
€2.750
/ person
Expeditions
Sept 9th–15th 2026
4 spots available
Sept 2nd–8th 2026
Sold out
Apply to joinDownload brochure
You won't be charged yet
Our selection process
Takes only 10 minutes and it helps us create the best travel family!
Traveler stories
⭐ 4.9 · from past Maui expeditions
Julie
Wyoming
·
Whaleshark madness 🇲🇻
Amazing expedition! I've been on tours for the past 5 years but this was by far my favorite one so far! Made so many new friends that I can't wait to see again soon (in the ocean hopefully :)
Mark
Brussels
·
Whaleshark madness 🇲🇻
The application process seemed like overkill at first but now I understand it completely. Everyone showed up ready to be present and actually connect. No phones-out-at-dinner types. Refreshing!!
Where you'll be
Whaleshark madness 🇲🇻
Sept 9th–15th 2026
Apply to join
Maui Travel
Small-group ocean expeditions with Maui! Swim with orcas, mantas and humpback whales while forming lasting connections. We hand-pick every guest so you travel with people who feel like friends.
5+ years traveling · 4 destinations · 250+ travelers · 4.9 avg rating
© 2026 Maui Travel · All rights reserved
×

Download the brochure

Drop your details and we'll send the full brochure straight to you.

Thanks! Your brochure is on its way to your inbox.
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.