Absolutely loved my Dhoni snorkelling adventure in the Maldives. Magic!
The sealife was sublime - the hawksbill turtles, dolphins, tropical fish and sharks were phenomenal. Unfortunately the coral was extensively bleached but trying to rejuvenate.
Our guide Teddie was exceptional, skilled at positioning our small group in the best snorkelling spots and capturing it/ us on camera. The crew worked tirelessly - Chef Asitha and Waiter Libee produced delicious banquets for every meal, .Captain Anees took us where we needed to go and Rahul kept a watchful eye whilst we were snorkelling and kept things ship-shape.
As expected, the accommodation was very basic, but met all our needs.
Tips:
1. Follow Explore!’s recommendation and bring a smallish soft bag - the drawers under the bunks are roomy and you actually need very little ;
2. Ignore Explore!’s recommendations and allow more for tips than the 25sterling recommended. The team work tirelessly to provide outstanding experiences.
3. Bring sunscreen and shirts for sun-protection.
I did this trip as an extension to a Sri Lankan tour and it was a fabulous combo: its going to be hard to beat and especially hard to beat the value.
Active and outdoorWildlife
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
An excellent 3 weeks with 2 excellent guides. Sri Lanka section was well organised by our guide Nala. he tweaked the itinerary so that we got the very best out of our time and imparted so much information about every aspect of Sri Lanka. He kept us on time fitting extra stops in if we were passing something to see like a banana market and fishermen hauling nets in on the beach. Accommodation was exactly as described and the usual Explore authentic assortment of comfortable and more rustic.
There were lots of English style plug sockets in the hotels, but i would take an adaptor as well just in case.
Highlights were climbing Adams Peak starting at 2am, and passing some very elderly people making the pilgrimage to the temple at the top. A unique experience. Also the train journey over 9 arch bridge. Great fun.
Maldives- again we had a superb guide- Moosa. Extremely knowledgeable about the ocean and also gave us a lot of fascinating history and politics background of the Maldives. Island visits provided an insight into the real country.
The boat was spacious clean and comfortable. Didn't expect the hotel like room services - bed making and towel changing! Food on the boat was amazing. Plentiful and a variety of dishes inc freshly caught fish. Had 2 snorkels a day building up the length and difficulty of them. So many colourful fish, it was like swimming in a tropical fish tank. Also saw turtles, moray eels, sharks and rays including a manta. The tender was always out with us keeping an eye on us whilst snorkelling.
Overall a fabulous itinerary and guides on land and sea
Active and outdoorWildlife
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
If you’ve ever dreamed of exploring the Maldives beyond its luxury resorts, the "3N Marine Life Break" tour is your gateway to authentic island life and underwater wonders. This flexible, budget-friendly trip is ideal for independent travelers wanting a taste of the archipelago’s legendary marine biodiversity and local culture. Based on the picturesque island of Dhigurah, the longest in the Ari Atoll, you’ll have access to pristine beaches, a protected lagoon, and the famous sandbar stretching from its southern tip.
The main activity on this package is experiencing the Maldives’ vibrant marine life—searching for whale sharks, snorkeling vibrant coral reefs, or simply relaxing on the island’s sun-drenched shores. An added highlight is the chance to engage with local traditions and daily life on an inhabited island, offering a rare cultural perspective.
Whether you’re looking for a short, action-packed marine adventure or want to use this as a springboard for further independent travel, this tour package delivers exceptional value and unforgettable memories in paradise. The USP here is the immersive island stay—perfect for those who crave marine exploration with an authentic local twist.
Explore leader: for Sri Lanka only satisfactory. Not easy to understand, didn't seem to feel part of the group, didn't join us for meals, a poor communicator (relative to past explore trips)
For the dhoni Maldives cruise: Moosa was excellent in every way.
Active and outdoorWildlife
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Embark on a captivating journey that encompasses the wonders of ancient history and the marvels of modern architecture. Your tour begins in the mesmerizing city of Dubai, renowned for its distinctive contemporary structures and awe-inspiring skylines. Witness the architectural prowess of this city as you delve into its vibrant atmosphere. Next, venture to Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates, a captivating metropolis where the skyline evolves, sandy shores beckon, and iconic buildings leave a lasting impression. Explore the legendary Sheik Zayed Grand Mosque, the renowned Louvre Museum, and immerse yourself in the world's largest shopping malls. Conclude your Dubai adventure with an unforgettable experience before embarking on a flight to the enchanting Maldives. Stroll along the pristine white-sand beaches, where vibrant corals and exotic marine life await your discovery. Luxuriate in the warmth of the sun and revel in the breathtaking beauty of this magical island paradise. Your remarkable tour of Dubai and the Maldives concludes amidst the serene splendor of this captivating destination.
City sightseeingBeachWildlife
Tour Type
Independent TourTypically a private tour undertaken by one or two travelers