Best of Maldives

★ Embark on a Marine Adventure to Encounter Nurse Sharks

This morning, your guide will meet you at your hotel at the agreed time, and then let’s hop on a boat for 1.5 hours off shore to discover the vibrant coral reefs and marine life surrounding Maafushi. Nurse sharks are the star animals of Maldives. Although they have sharp teeth, they are much gentler than other species of sharks. Living in the shallow sea, they are very easy to spot near the coral islands in Maldives. Interestingly, no one knows why the words “nurse” and “shark” are combined together for this creature. Maybe it’s because it has a flat and wide head that looks like a nurse hat! At different snorkeling spots, you can also see turtles, manta rays, and even whale sharks, and your guide will take photos for you in the clear waters.

► Snorkeling Tips:
1. Nurse sharks are generally harmless and don’t bite people. However, for your safety, please avoid stretching out your arms or opening your hands underwater, and never try to touch or chase them. 
2. Snorkeling equipment is provided for free, but for a better experience, you can also bring your own mask and snorkel. 

After the excursion, your guide will accompany you back to your hotel. The rest of time is yours to enjoy. Maafushi is a narrow, small island and most of the areas can be walked to within 20 minutes. You can stroll around and experience the local life, take part in exciting water sports like parasailing and jet skiing, or watch a splendid sunset at a bikini beach.

★ Authentic Cultural Immersion: Dine with a Local Family

Compared to the exclusive resort islands, local islands in Maldives offer unparalleled opportunities to experience the local culture and tropical vibe. This evening, let’s head to a local home and enjoy a dinner with the family, savoring authentic Maafushi flavors. Thanks to the abundant marine resources, tuna and coconut are the most common foods on the local dinner table, usually spiced with curry from India and Sri Lanka. Please note that, according to the local law, all citizens of the Maldives are Muslims, and pork and alcohol are strictly prohibited. So, please respect the local culture and wear clothes that cover your shoulders and knees. After dinner, you guide will escort you back to your hotel.

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Accommodation: Kaani Grand Seaview, Maafushi (4 stars) or similar

Today is free for you to enjoy your time on the island! For your reference, the followings are some of the best things to do in Maafushi:

1. Sandbank Excursion: There are a lot of stunning sandbanks near Maafushi, with fine white sand and turquoise water. Take an excursion to these secluded paradises, swimming in the shallows and taking photos with the endless sea. At high tide, the sandbanks may shrink, so early morning is the best time to explore them. 
► Note: Bring your waterproof bag for phone, clothes and camera, and use sunscreen and wear sun hat and sunglasses to avoid getting sunburnt since there is no shade.
2. Sunset Dolphin Cruise: Sail before sunset to see the water turn from deep blue to golden while looking for groups of dolphins. They are usually active during this time, so if lucky, you may spot dolphins playing and leaping out of the water!
3. Night Fishing: Embark on a joyful fishing tour against the background of the breathtaking sea views. More importantly, you’ll enjoy a hands-on experience to catch various fish through the old hand line fishing method that has been passed down for generations in Maldives.

★ Special Inclusion: Enjoy a Memorable Dinner on the Beach

If weather permits, you’ll enjoy our carefully prepared dinner on the serene beach. We provide various food choices including fresh seafood, grilled chicken or beef, rice, pasta, salads, and seasonal fruits for you to have a great time. Get immersed in the cozy private atmosphere as night falls. If you have any allergies or preferences, please let your guide know ahead of time.

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Accommodation: Kaani Grand Seaview, Maafushi (4 stars) or similar

This morning, your guide will be waiting for you at your hotel and accompany you to take a 20-minute boat to Gulhi Island, a peaceful tiny island with only 900 residents. Upon arrival, your guide will assist you with hotel check-in. The rest of the day is free for you to experience the beauty of Gulhi. 
► If you prefer to go back and stay in Maafushi tonight, please let us know in advance. We’re glad to adjust the arrangements as you like. 

► Recommended Activities (at your own expense)
Gulhi Island still retains its traditional charm. Most of the residents here make a living by fishing, with an average income of no more than 500 to 700 USD a month. When you walk around, you could find the oldest shipyard in the Maldives, where the traditional Dhoni wooden boat is manufactured. The vessel, with a history of over a thousand years, is designed for sea areas with dense coral reefs and intricate waterways. Every day, Dhoni boats shuttle between local islands, picking up commuters, students, and residents. You can witness the making and repairing of the boats at the shipyard, and learn about the local life and fishing culture. Later, you can take a catamaran to the nearby sandbank for a picnic, or go snorkeling to explore the coral reefs and tropical fish. Last, you can end your wonderful day with a sunset fishing.

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Accommodation: Ayala Ocean View, Gulhi (3 stars) or similar

After breakfast, your guide will meet you at your hotel and escort you to take a 1.5-hour public ferry back to Male. After arrival, we’ll enjoy a short city tour.

Let’s first visit Male Friday Mosque. As one of the most crowded capitals in the world, Male has more than 30 mosques! Built in 1656 AD, the Friday Mosque is one of the representatives. The entire architecture is constructed with coral rock, with elegant white walls and a golden dome. Besides, you can admire the traditional wood carvings and lacquerware from the 17th century.

Then, enjoy a leisurely walk in the Sultan Park, the former site of the royal Sultan’s Palace, and learn history of the country. After that, follow your guide to the local market, and discover fresh fish and fruits like Kurumba coconuts, bananas, papayas, and breadfruit.

After the tour, your guide and driver will escort you to Male Airport for your onward flight. See you next time!

Meals: Breakfast