Kerala and Maldives Adventure

Arrival at Kochi. Transfer to Fort Kochi. On arrival, you will check into a heritage hotel at Fort Kochi. You are able to use the remainder of your day at you leisure. An arrival briefing will be held this evening (details will be provided on arrival).

Overnight: Dutch Bungalow or similar.

After an early breakfast, you will discover this amazing city of Kochi. Kochi (Cochin as it was known in colonial times) is a major port on the west coast of India, set on a cluster of islands surrounded by sparkling blue lagoons and backwaters. Its historic links can be seen in the Colonial bungalows, an old Synagogue, Chinese fishing nets, the oldest European church in India and a medieval Portuguese palace. In the afternoon we will move on to the area of Marari Beach approximately one hour away.

Overnight: Abad Turtle or similar.

After a short transfer to the backwaters, you begin your leisurely 15km kayaking adventure. We begin early so as to enjoy the local communities beginning their day thus gaining insight into the local way of life. Often starting with happy school children skipping along the boardwalks on their way to school. As morning progresses the backwaters come to life, as you observe the ecosystem from water level. Crowds of ducks splash their way across the channel, while Brahminy Kites and Kingfishers dive from high above to snatch a fish from the water. Near here you will pass the famous Karumadikuttan Temple housing an elaborate image of the Buddha. You will be taking time off strolling through the villages, watching coconut climbers at work to tap the ‘toddy’ – a traditional brew for tired souls.

Overnight: Lake Canopy or similar.

Today we cycle through the backwater & beach areas towards Kollam (Quilon) – an ancient port city with great historical significance especially in relation to the struggles during colonial times. We then continue cycling, mostly on dirt roads that take us through two natural lagoons one at Kollam and one at Paravur. It is at Paravur that we will stay this evening, alongside the quiet backwaters.

Overnight: Fragrant Nature or similar.

Today we explore the local network of mangroves by boat or foot, a true highlight of the area and a crucial element of the local ecosystem, providing shelter to juvenile fish from the larger predatory fish in the open waters. These mangroves are also home to a variety of bird species such as the iconic Kingfisher. There are options for Ayurveda too, if you would like to indulge into the centuries old traditional medicine native to India

Overnight: Fragrant Nature or similar.

Today, we get back on our bicycles and cycle through the quite villages at Paravur until we reach the Coir Factory. Coir is a meterial made from coconut husks from which matting and ropes can be made. Here we have an opportunity to see the traditional coir making skills. After a short visit, we cycle through village roads with amazing view of the backwaters until we cross the scenic Pozhikara Spillway and hit the beach road. Afternoon we have some spectacular cycling along the coast all the way to Varkala. From here we will transfer to our overnight hotel close to the airport in Trivandrum in preparation for our flight to Male, the capital of the island nation of the Maldives, the following day.

Overnight: Udai Suites or similar.

Transfer to Trivandrum airport for your departure flight to Male. Upon arrival at Velana International Airport in Malé, you will be warmly greeted by our crew as you're escorted to the jetty. Get ready to leave the crowds behind and set sail into the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean. Settle into your cabin and meet the team before a detailed safety and itinerary briefing. Our journey begins with a cruise south toward the charming island of Guraidhoo. Ease into your adventure with a relaxed snorkel over Guraidhoo’s house reef—watch for butterflyfish, wrasses, and the occasional moray eel. This is a great spot to begin your snorkeling adventure in the Maldives’ beautiful coral reefs! (Beach towels, snorkels, and flippers are provided on board.) We will then step ashore to explore a traditional Maldivian island, visit local shops, interact with residents, and soak in the rhythm of island life. After a delightful dinner on deck, join your guide for a preview of the journey ahead.

Note: Today's included lunch may be impacted as dictated by available flight times and carriers. We appreciate your understanding for this potential issue.

Greet the sunrise as the boat glides toward Vaavu Atoll, known for some of the Maldives’ most untouched snorkelling sites. We will enjoy a morning snorkel at Turtle Reef where we drift over seagrass meadows and shallow coral gardens to encounter hawksbill turtles and schools of reef fish. Back onboard we savour a freshly prepared meal as we cruise to Kudi Boli. Here we jump back into the water to discover a dynamic reef teeming with clownfish stingrays, parrotfish, and—if you're lucky—reef sharks. The clarity and richness of this site are spectacular.

Our moning snorkel today takes us to Loabi Faru, where we glide over multi-coloured coral heads and spot wrasses, angelfish, and even the elusive octopus among the coral folds before continuing on to Bongo Veli. A tranquil tropical islet, Bongo Veli becomes your private paradise for the afternoon. Unwind with sun, sand, and swimming—or enjoy another snorkel just offshore. An unforgettable dinner awaits with a barbeque on the beach (weather permitting). Feast on grilled seafood and island fare by candlelight, with your toes in the sand and stars above.

Experience a lively underwater spectacle featuring shimmering schools of damselfish, fusiliers, and the vivid colors of healthy coral formations as we enjoy a morning snorkel at Kuda Anbara Reef. In the afternoon we explore the awe-inspiring vertical drop at Acho/Kacho Reef Wall, where large reef fish like trevally and snapper patrol the edge. This evening relax on deck with refreshments and reflect on a day rich in marine life as we sail toward Felidhoo.

This morning we explore Vaavu shipwreck, a hauntingly beautiful wreck that’s now home to snappers, batfish, and soft corals. Bring your underwater camera!

As we sail towards Dhiggiri keep your eyes peeled for spinner dolphins leaping alongside the boat in playful pods. This afternoon we snorkel Fulidhoo Coral Garden where we discover this rich coral garden’s nooks and crannies where juvenile fish and macro-life flourish. We will head ashore to a village to meet the friendly locals and admire the colorful houses. Tonight we enjoy a Boduberu Cultural Performance

where we experience the pulse of the Maldives through rhythmic drumming and dancing in a spirited performance by local artists.

This morning we have the chance to float above clusters of curious nurse sharks in shallow, clear waters at Nurse Shark Bay. A heart-pounding highlight! Enjoy breakfast and open sea views en route to our final atoll. This afternoon we hope to snorkel with Green Turtles (Near Biyadhoo). Here we drift among coral bommies and watch gentle green turtles glide gracefully through the sea.

Today we enjoy our final reef exploration—colorful hard corals and peaceful currents make for a reflective swim. We pay a visit to Itaafushi Sandbank - A picture-perfect sandbar for sunbathing, beachcombing, and one last snorkel. We hope to spend our final nights anchorage at Lagoonaa, where we celebrate a week of discovery with a sunset toast aboard. Alternative Option: In case of adverse weather, we’ll anchor at Hulhumale Harbor to ensure comfort and convenience for our morning departure.

Waking up on the dhoni, we have breakfast before being transferred to the airport.