Turtle snorkeling
Guided snorkel excursions to prime reef sites in Rasdhoo (Ari Atoll) and selected Lhaviyani Atoll reefs to encounter sea turtles (Green and Hawksbill) amid healthy coral gardens, cleaning stations and abundant reef life. Suitable for confident beginners through experienced snorkelers; trips depart from local island resorts and guesthouses and are led by experienced local guides/ dive guides.
Location
Selected reef sites in Rasdhoo (Ari Atoll) & Lhaviyani Atoll (guided snorkel sites / cleaning stations), Rasdhoo & Lhaviyani Atoll (various island bases), Maldives
Duration
Half-day (3–4 hours) or full-day (6–8 hours) options
Best Time to Visit
November–April for the clearest water and calmest seas; snorkeling is possible year-round. May–October may bring more plankton (reduced visibility) but increased chance of some megafauna.
Pricing
Shared trip: USD 50–90 per person (half-day). Full-day/private: USD 150–400 depending on boat and inclusions. Equipment rental: USD 5–15 (mask/snorkel/fins). Island or park fees may apply.
Activity Type
Coordinates
Highlights
Sea turtles (Green and Hawksbill) — frequent sightings at reef cleaning stations
Vibrant coral gardens and reef formations
Large schools of reef fish, moray eels, rays and occasional reef sharks (harmless species)
Possibility of seeing whale sharks in Ari Atoll season (book a dedicated trip if targeting them)
Guided shore/boat entry with experienced local guides and site-specific knowledge
Itinerary
Pickup from resort or guesthouse and safety briefing
Fitting of gear, snorkel technique refresh, brief on marine etiquette and locations to visit.
Boat transfer to first reef site
Short boat rides (10–45 minutes) depending on base island; crew points out currents and tide info.
Guided snorkel session #1 (45–60 minutes)
Look for turtles at cleaning stations and reef ledges; stay with the guide and follow hand signals.
Snacks / boat transfer to second site
Opportunity to rest, hydrate, change snorkel gear or switch to a different site for drift/snorkel.
Guided snorkel session #2 (45–60 minutes)
Exploration of coral heads and drop-offs; good photo opportunities near shallow reefs.
Return to base / drop-off
On full-day trips an additional site or picnic on a sandbank may be included.
Safety Requirements
Basic swimming ability and comfortable in open water
Use of a life jacket is recommended for non-confident swimmers
Always snorkel with the guide and in the designated group
Do not touch, chase or feed turtles or other wildlife — keep at least 2–3 meters distance
Use reef-safe sunscreen or UV-protective clothing to protect coral
Be aware of currents and tides; guides will advise which sites are suitable on the day
Inform operator of any medical conditions (asthma, heart conditions, severe allergies)
Tips
Bring your own well-fitting mask & snorkel if possible — rented gear can fog or leak
Use reef-safe sunscreen or a long-sleeve rashguard to protect skin and corals
Bring a waterproof camera or action camera with float to capture turtle encounters
Wear fins suitable for reef conditions and avoid kicking the coral; keep good buoyancy control
Follow the guide’s instructions and stay with the group — do not swim off alone
Respect local rules: do not remove shells, coral or disturb wildlife — fines may apply
Carry small cash for tips, island fees or extra refreshments
Book during the dry season for best visibility; morning trips often have calmer seas
