Travelling to the Maldives and planning to enjoy plenty of snorkelling and diving sessions? Read on to find out more about the rich marine life the island nation is famous for.

Whale Sharks
Get the chance to get up close and personal with these Gentle Giants of the oceans when in the Maldives. Whale Sharks can be most commonly found in the Western side of the atolls especially during the period from November to April.

Manta Rays
Gliding along with these gentle giants imparts a sense of peace and most divers fall in love with them. Unlike the dangerous sting greys with venomous spines, Manta Rays are perfectly harmless and actually enjoy human company. Many a Maldives resort including the likes of Milaidhoo Island Maldives arrange diving excursions, so guests can have the surreal experience of swimming with them.

Turtles
Up to five types of turtles can be seen in the calm crystal-clear waters. The most common type which divers can interact with would be the green sea turtle. You may also run across batches of eggs laid in shallow holes along the shores especially during the time period between June and November.

Sharks
Most of the reefs are home to whitetip reef sharks. While it might sound scary swimming among these creatures, in actuality, these sharks are so used to humans. It is quite an exhilarating getting up close to these intelligent sea creatures, however, it’s imperative to respect their space and not bother them.

Intrigued by history, art and food, Lavinia Woolf is a writer who is passionate about the extraordinary and writes of the exhilarating and enchanting. Google+