Travelling through the Maldives with kids is a remarkable adventure that combines the exotic beauty of this island nation with the joy of family exploration. This idyllic tropical paradise in the heart of the Indian Ocean is renowned for its pristine white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters teeming with exotic marine life and luxurious overwater bungalows. While the Maldives is often considered a romantic destination for honeymooners, it also offers a wealth of captivating experiences for families.

Seaplanes and Speedboats

Navigating the Maldives’ stunning archipelago often involves the use of seaplanes and speedboats, both of which contribute to the unique and exhilarating experience of travelling with kids. Seaplanes are a thrilling mode of transport that will undoubtedly capture the imagination of young adventurers. Taking off and landing on the azure waters of the Indian Ocean is an unforgettable experience for the whole family, but on the other hand, speedboats are an efficient and exciting means of island-hopping. They are often used for shorter transfers between islands and resorts, and children will relish the feeling of the wind in their hair as they zip across the water.

Swimming with Manta Rays

One of the most enchanting experiences to be had in the Maldives is the opportunity to swim with the magnificent manta rays, an activity that promises to leave a lasting impression on children and adults alike. These gentle giants of the ocean, with their graceful, wing-like fins, offer a truly mesmerizing encounter beneath the crystal-clear waters. Venturing into the warm, inviting embrace of the Indian Ocean to swim alongside these graceful creatures is a chance for families to witness the marvels of marine life up close.

Planting Corals

Participating in this adventure will undoubtedly be a fantastic experience for the children: having a coral in the Indian Ocean named after them! Many hotels have initiated coral reef rescue programs, inviting guests to join in. Young adventurers get to plant their very own coral with the guidance of marine biologists, playing a role in nurturing a burgeoning coral colony – a huge difference from your average kid’s club in the Maldives.

Dolphin Cruises

Dolphin Cruises
Image via Wikimedia Commons – espinya, Ballenas en el Sur de Tenerife (Spain) – panoramio, CC BY-SA 3.0

Hotels in the Maldives arrange unique cruises to provide tourists with the opportunity to observe dolphins in the Indian Ocean. The Maldives is home to four distinct dolphin species, and during these cruises, guests are guided to locations favoured by these amicable marine creatures. These remarkable pods can sometimes comprise hundreds of dolphins, encompassing both adults and juveniles. These captivating dolphins engage in playful activities, leaping out of the water and showcasing a delightful array of tricks, almost as if they are putting on a show for the onlookers! Check out if this is available to you at places like the OBLU Select Sangeli Maldives.