April 28-30. Days 15, 16, and 17. A breathtaking array of marine creatures lives among radiant
corals in the postcard-perfect seas of the Maldives. Manta rays glide through
the deep waters, and hawksbill sea turtles feed on reef sponges and jellyfish
and migrate to nest on the island’s famed white-sand beaches. Rising sea levels
threaten coral and other life here, and marine biologists are working with the
Maldivian government to restore the health of the surrounding waters. National
Geographic Emerging Explorer Andrea Marshall, one of the world’s leading experts
on manta rays, joins us here to share her experiences in marine megafauna
conservation.
Settle into private overwater bungalows at our resort, and wake up to
magnificent ocean views.
Shangri-La’s Villingili Resort & Spa
Dip into translucent waters to snorkel in a
dazzling underwater world of elaborate corals and more than a thousand sea
species. The bright, sunlit surface provides incredible visibility, making it easy to
spot clownfish, oriental sweetlips, and schools of angelfish in the shallow reefs.
Go scuba diving to discover manta rays, black jacks, and tuna.
Further out, more than a dozen species of whales and dolphins swim around
some 1,200 tiny islands. Take a cruise to watch pods of dolphins at play. Among
the most common sightings are spinner dolphins, which are known for their
spirited acrobatics over the water. Or, land explorers can hop on a bicycle and
enjoy the beautiful island scenery.