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3 South Ari Atoll
South Ari Marine Protected Area
This is the most well-known dive and snorkel site for whale sharks in the Maldives. The whale sharks are present in this area all year long, only shifting slightly from west to east as the monsoon winds change direction. During the southwest monsoon, which runs from May to October, more encounters are towards Maamigilli to the west, and during the northwest monsoon, the sharks are found on the Dhigurah side. To the south, in Thaa Atoll, massive lights being used by fishermen near Kalhufahalafushi to attract baitfish also attract plankton and therefore whale sharks, where they’ re a prime nighttime attraction for underwater photographers.
As a photographer, being in the middle of the feeding aggregation is an unforgettable experience
06 A classic manta feeding“ train” Equipment & settings: Canon EOS-7D, Tokina 10 – 17mm fisheye lens, ambient light, f / 7.1, 1 / 180s, ISO200
07 Whale sharks are found all year round in the Maldives Equipment & settings: Canon EOS-7D, Tokina 10 – 17mm fisheye lens, ambient light, f / 8, 1 / 125s, ISO200