A Guide For Snorkelling With Whale Sharks

Sunday 4th of September 2022

Deemed as the largest fish in the world, the Whale Sharks are frequently seen gracing the Maldivian oceans and is a popular selling point among visitors coming to our shores. Many guests are captivated by the gigantic species as it is a rare sight to witness one up-close. It is important to remember during these times that there are certain to dos and not to dos when it comes to paying a visit to these magnificent creatures. Take a look into the guide of conduct when snorkeling with the beasts of the ocean.

1. Keep a safe distance

It is common for snorkelers to get carried away in the moment and approach the whale sharks. However, a safe distance of 3-4 meters must always be kept when swimming alongside these creatures.

Even though, they are usually calm, they are prone to make sudden escapes by swimming away swiftly. So for your safety, always remember to adhere to the safe distance.

2. No patting for whale sharks

These giants of the ocean do not like patting so as hard as it is to resist, don’t do it!

Touching the whale sharks may disrupt its natural behaviour causing the species to make a speedy retreat from the location. Therefore, be mindful about not touching these fishes.

3. Don’t get in the way

If it is one thing whale sharks hate, its people getting in its way. Obstructing its path and placing yourself directly in its way, can really make these creatures anxious and upset. During your snorkelling, if you see that a whale shark is moving towards you, quickly swim away from it and again, remember to keep that safe distance.

4. No swimming over the giants

Although, these species can dive deep into the depths of the cold ocean they need to return to the surface to maintain their body temperatures and warm up. To accommodate for these warm-up sessions, don’t swim over them during their ascend.

If you want to go from one side of the whale shark to the other, simply go around it instead of going above it. Moreover, if you see a swiftly approaching whale shark 5m below you, move away from its path as quickly as possible.

5. No flash photography

Flash photography can impair the whale shark’s vision and cause it to panic and be scared. So if you want to take a picture of them, use the camera without the flash and capture the historical moment.

6. It’s all quiet in the ocean

Due to its extensive hearing, whale sharks are very sensitive to sound. Be respectful of this and don’t jump standing on the platform when you visit the site. Sit down, lower your fins first and make a quietly hop into the ocean. Another thing to keep in mind is not to shout or yell in the water and tread water lightly when swimming.

With all these tips, have a whale of a time with the whale sharks!