A haven of natural tranquillity, Olhuveli Beach & Spa Resort in the Maldives is a top destination for seeing some of the world’s rarest sea creatures. What’s more, until November this beautiful island resort enjoys its ‘manta ray season’, offering divers, swimmers, snorkellers and even dry-land spectators an even greater chance of spotting one of nature’s more unusual creatures.
Manta Rays In The Maldives
While manta rays are an endangered species in most parts of the world, they thrive in the Maldives’ waters, especially during the summer months when the higher level of plankton in the water and the prevailing winds and currents of the hot weather entice rays of all shapes and sizes to migrate to Olhuveli’s tempting shores.
Manta rays are a thrilling sight to behold as they glide effortlessly through the water. Like sharks they are cartilaginous (have a cartilage skeleton), yet they are completely harmless and actually enjoy the company of divers and snorkellers! One of the most exciting experiences Olhuveli offers with manta rays is feeding time from the jetty at dusk, when its spotlights entice shoals of frenzied fishy activity. It’s quite something to see these muscular, alienesque creatures flip in and out of the water and a wonderful experience for those wanting to watch nature’s theatre played out to the backdrop of a perfect sunset.
Western & Oriental (www.westernoriental.com / 020 7666 1212) is offering seven nights for the price of six at Olhuveli Beach & Spa Resort from £1,499 per person (saving £100 per person). Available for selected departures in September, the price includes accommodation in a deluxe room on a half-board basis, flights from Heathrow with SriLankan Airlines, speedboat transfers, taxes and surcharges.