Conrad Maldives Rangali Island is offering guests the opportunity to encounter whale sharks in South Ari Atoll through guided experiences that combine marine education, responsible interaction and conservation-focused research.
South Ari Atoll is known for its year-round whale shark sightings, with the waters around the atoll providing opportunities to encounter the world’s largest shark species throughout the year. While whale sharks can reach up to 18 metres in length, those commonly encountered in the area are typically around five to six metres long.
The experience begins with a marine briefing led by Jess, Marine Biologist at the resort’s Ocean Dive Center. Guests learn about whale shark behaviour, responsible approaches and the distinctive markings that allow individual animals to be identified before heading out into the atoll in search of a sighting.
Each whale shark has a unique pattern of white spots and lines across its body, allowing marine biologists to identify individual sharks in much the same way fingerprints distinguish people. These markings also support ongoing monitoring and research into the whale sharks found in South Ari Atoll.
Once at sea, sightings depend on the natural conditions and movement of the animals. Guests may spot a dorsal fin or shadow beneath the surface before entering the water for an encounter with the whale shark.
The experience can also contribute directly to marine research. Photographs taken during encounters can help identify previously unrecorded whale sharks through their unique markings, allowing new individuals to be added to research databases and, where applicable, named.
Alongside whale shark encounters, Jess works across marine conservation initiatives at Conrad Maldives, including manta ray research, coral reef conservation and coral-growing activities. Her role also provides guests with an opportunity to learn more about the marine environment surrounding the resort and the conservation efforts supporting its health.
Jess first began diving at the age of 11, developing an interest in marine life that led to her career as an Australian-British Marine Biologist. She has spent the past five years working in the Maldives, focusing on the country’s marine ecosystems and the species that inhabit them.
For Conrad Maldives, the whale shark experience forms part of the resort’s wider approach to connecting guests with the marine environment, combining encounters with marine interpretation and opportunities to contribute to ongoing conservation and research.