The Maldives has acquired a reputation for being a premier vacation destination, offering a delightful tropical climate, endless stretches of sandy beach and a host of water-based activities. The seas bordering the islands teem with an array of marine life, but the most alluring ocean denizen of all must be the mighty whale shark.
The whale shark is the largest of all existing fish species, reaching a length of up to 40 feet, and a weight of more than 45,000 lbs. The mouth of the whale shark alone can stretch five feet across. However this enormous creature feeds almost exclusively on plankton and varieties of tiny fish, and therefore poses little threat to humans.
There are many factors that make snorkelling and scuba diving in the Maldives highly rewarding pastimes, and there is no doubt that the opportunity to experience a close encounter with these marvels of nature is one of them. Vigorous currents bringing in water rich with plankton make an ideal breeding environment for the sharks, with many of the giant creatures residing in the local waters. However in recent times many threats have materialized for the whale sharks in the Maldives.
In addition to being hunted for their liver oils and fins, many sharks have been injured due to human negligence, being trapped in nets and injured by harpooning and boat propellers. The numbers of divers seeking out the giant sharks have also made the local waters unattractive for whale sharks.
To rectify the situation, three Marine Protected Areas have been established for the benefit of these marine behemoths. In these areas, all fishing of the sharks is prohibited and divers must respect a number of guidelines; for example, divers may not come closer than 3 m to a whale shark, or interfere with their movement in any way. It is thought that these initiatives will encourage the sharks to remain and breed in Maldivian waters, making it possible for divers and snorkelers to observe the gentle giants in their native habitat.
The selective visitor considering Maldives island resorts will find an excellent choice in the Naladhu Maldives. This outstanding Maldives hotel provides quality accommodations and attentive service.
