Encountering gentle giants at Milaidhoo Maldives

The pristine waters surrounding Milaidhoo, nestled within the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve of Baa Atoll, offer an unparalleled glimpse into the vibrant marine ecosystem of the Maldives.

Among the many fascinating creatures that call these waters home, the gentle nurse sharks stand out as a captivating sight for divers and snorkellers alike.

At luxury resort Milaidhoo, we invite you to experience the magic of these remarkable animals and contribute to their marine conservation.

Nurse sharks, known for their docile nature and distinctive barbels (whisker-like appendages on either side of their snouts), are a common sight in the warm, clear waters of Baa Atoll. These nocturnal creatures spend their days resting in caves and crevices, emerging at night to hunt for crustaceans, molluscs and small fish.

Witnessing these graceful sharks in their natural habitat is a truly unforgettable experience, and Milaidhoo provides the perfect place to do so.

Understanding Nurse shark behaviour

Imagine drifting over a sun-dappled seabed, the gentle rhythm of the ocean your only soundtrack. It’s here, in the quiet shallows of Baa Atoll, that the serene life of the Nurse shark unfolds. Unlike the dramatic hunts of their more energetic cousins, these creatures embody tranquility.

They look like slumbering giants, resting peacefully on the sandy floor, tucked beneath the protective embrace of coral overhangs or resting near our overwater restaurants. They are the epitome of calm, choosing to conserve their energy during daylight hours.

As twilight descends, a subtle shift occurs. The Nurse sharks awaken, their slow, deliberate movements guiding them through the deepening shadows. They are nocturnal foragers, their quest for sustenance a patient exploration rather than a frenzied chase. They glide along the reef’s edge, their sensory barbels delicately probing the seabed, searching for the hidden crustaceans and molluscs that form their diet.

Unlike reef sharks, which might exhibit a more inquisitive, sometimes even assertive, demeanor, the Nurse sharks are happy to remain within their peaceful realm. They’re not interested in humans, and their interactions with divers and snorkellers are characterised by a quiet indifference. A respectful distance, a gentle observation, and they will simply continue on their way, a testament to the serene harmony that exists within the depths of Milaidhoo’s surrounding waters.

Seven things you might not know about nurse sharks

1 They are bottom dwellers — Nurse sharks spend much of their time on the seabed, using their pectoral fins to “walk” along the bottom.

2 They have strong suction — They possess powerful suction feeding abilities, allowing them to extract prey from crevices.

3 They have two small dorsal fins — Unlike many other sharks, nurse sharks have two relatively small and rounded dorsal fins.

4 They are social creatures — They often gather in groups, especially during resting periods.

5 They have sensory barbels — The barbels around their mouths help them detect prey in murky waters.

6 They reproduce slowly — Nurse sharks have a long gestation period, and females give birth to relatively few pups.

7 They can live a long time — Nurse sharks can live for over 25 years.

Beyond nurse sharks: a marine wonderland

While nurse sharks are a highlight, the marine biodiversity of Baa Atoll is truly astounding. During your stay at Milaidhoo, you may also have the opportunity to encounter:

Manta rays

Witness the breathtaking spectacle of manta rays congregating in Hanifaru Bay during the annual manta season (May to October).

Whale sharks

On rare occasions, these gentle giants may grace us with their presence. Remember, they are filter feeders and completely harmless.

Coral reefs

Explore our vibrant house reef, a haven for diverse marine life and a testament to our ongoing coral regeneration program. Guests can even adopt a piece of coral reef and watch it grow.

Turtles and other rays

Baa Atoll is a haven for sea turtles and various ray species, providing endless opportunities for underwater exploration.

Looking after our environment

Our commitment to preserving the delicate balance of the marine environment extends beyond simply observing these magnificent creatures. We actively participate in the Shark Watch initiative, a project by the Darwin Reef Fish Project, Marine Research Centre, and the Ministry of Fisheries and Agriculture, to monitor shark populations in the Maldives.

This vital research helps us understand and protect these essential members of the reef ecosystem. Milaidhoo is deeply committed to environmental sustainability. Our initiatives include:

• State-of-the-art water and sewage treatment plant.
• Use of accredited eco-friendly chemicals.
• Comprehensive environmental impact assessments.
• Support for local charities like The Manta Trust and Manta Matcher.
• Sustainability plan with annual evaluations.

Dive into adventure with our Vitamin Sea package

For avid divers, our Vitamin Sea package offers the ultimate underwater experience. Enjoy two dives daily, exploring the spectacular dive sites of Baa Atoll with our experienced PADI dive centre team. Encounter manta rays, whale sharks and a plethora of other marine creatures while enjoying the luxury resort relaxation of Milaidhoo.

The Baa Atoll is a protected marine park, and diving here is a must for all underwater enthusiasts. The Milaidhoo cave is a famous dive spot and our multilingual dive team will ensure you experience the best of the atoll.

Whether you’re a seasoned diver or a novice snorkeller, Milaidhoo offers an unforgettable journey into the heart of the Maldives’ marine wonders. Discover the magic of nurse sharks and the breathtaking beauty of Baa Atoll, and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Embark on your underwater adventure today and discover the wonders of Baa Atoll with Milaidhoo.

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