There’s a variety of water sports that allow you to get a glimpse of the Maldives’ underwater beauty. But what if you don’t want to get wet? Can you still explore its marine ecosystem? Yes!
What Is a Submarine Tour?
Submarine tours offer you the opportunity to see the enchanting world below the ocean’s surface without much effort on your part. It’s a unique way to experience what would otherwise elude you. The Whale Submarine is the largest and deepest-diving passenger submarine in the world. It can carry about 50 people at a time to a depth of no less than 150 metres! The tour lasts about 45 minutes, giving you plenty of time to explore the underwater world.
How does it work? You’ll be taken to the dive site on a boat, where you’ll board the submarine and then descend into the great unknown, which is both enchanting and awe-inspiring in equal measure.
The Maldives’ Underwater World
Before you dive into this exciting topic further, take a moment to imagine what you’ll encounter beneath the waves. The Maldives is world-famous for its marine environment and with good reason. It’s teeming with marine species, from small to large, and the ocean bed is studded with vibrantly hued coral reefs that create habitats for these creatures. The underwater scenes shift rapidly: one moment, you’ll see schools of fish darting by, and the next, turtles gracefully gliding over the coral reefs. Occasionally, whale sharks and reef sharks make an appearance, stealing the show. Typically, these sights are a delight enjoyed only by divers and snorkellers, but now, you can experience them too, thanks to the Whale Submarine.
Want to know how to sign up for one? Well, you can get in touch with the tour operators directly, or if you’re staying at one of the Maldives island resorts, the likes of Anantara Veli Maldives, for instance, you can have the resort do all the work for you. Either way, you’re guaranteed an excellent time with joyful memories you’ll want to write about in your journal.
Why Should You Sign Up for a Whale Submarine Tour?
The Maldives offers all kinds of marine experiences, but what makes a Whale Submarine tour a top activity, and why should you sign up for it? For one, it’s an excellent option for those who aren’t comfortable with snorkelling or diving but still want to witness the beauty of the marine world. It’s also perfect for families with young children, for whom water activities might be a bit too challenging. Plus, the vessel is air-conditioned, comfortable, and designed to be accessible to everyone. Not to mention, the experience is truly one of a kind – you won’t find anything like it elsewhere in Southeast Asia.
Is It Safe?
Absolutely! The Whale Submarine is built by Bruker Meerestechnik in Germany. If you know anything about German products, you know they’re of top-notch quality. The company adheres to stringent safety standards. The Whale Submarine has been operating in the Maldives for years, with over 1,000 dives and more than 30,000 passengers without a single incident to report. Plus, the submarine is battery-powered, so there’s no risk associated with fuel or speed, making it safer than other forms of transport. The entire operation is approved by the Maldives’ Ministry of Transport, and only certified Maldivians operate the submarine. So, it’s as safe as safe can be.
Can Anyone Go on a Whale Submarine Tour?
Almost anyone can join this underwater adventure, but there are a few restrictions. Infants under the age of three are not allowed on the tour, which is understandable. Other than that, the tour is ideal for children, families, and older adults who might not be confident swimmers. It’s a fantastic family experience where everyone can relish the joys of the underwater world together.
Duration
The entire experience takes about two hours. This includes transfer time, boarding, and the submarine dive. The highlight, of course, is the 45-minute underwater journey where you’ll explore the marine life and coral reefs at a depth of about 150 metres. It’s just the right amount of time to soak in the beauty of the marine world without feeling hurried. Plus, the journey is perfectly broken up into boat rides and safety briefings.