Among the countless leisure thrills and spills for which the Maldives is popular, the extremely engaging encounter of swimming with sharks ranks as one of the island nation’s finest. Though you will need to research the most suitable areas to explore, one can rest assured of a fulfilling experience well away from what you may have witnessed while watching sequels of the movie ‘Jaws.’

While you can opt to consult with local guides in the Maldives on how to tailor your approach so that you can look forward to a memorable experience with these species, should you have some spare time after your bags have been packed, then consider reading up online on what it means to swim with sharks in this part of the world. Leading travel blogs, sites or guides in the likes of Lonely Planet can be resorted to for this purpose. Generally speaking, sharks move steadily and slowly and if they feel threatened by the presence of humans, then you will encounter a behaviour change. For instance, an increase in speed, a gaping mouth or even an arched back is evidence of the aforementioned. Therefore, when you experience such changes when in the water, it is advisable to refrain from swimming and head back towards the reef wall.

Though, perceptions of these animals are more or less mired in negativity, avoid falling prey to such biases and misconceptions ahead of going swimming in the Maldivian seas which contain more than 26 shark species. Always side with caution and remain considerate of not just the environment but of the species itself. Act responsibly and do away with the thought of venturing near breeding grounds as you may run the risk of bringing about sudden changes in behaviour. On the contrary, get into the habit of observing sharks from a considerable distance. A slow and steady approach mimicking that of the sharks is advisable as you must not be found provoking these animals as you may potentially leave yourself exposed to a defensive reaction.

Before you start swimming, it's important to understand the surroundings. This means you should learn about the place where you'll be swimming. By doing this, you'll give yourself enough time to get ready mentally and feel at ease. If you choose to swim with an experienced dive instructor, they will teach you all the important details. This includes things like the direction of the water flow, how warm or cold the water is, and how well you can see underwater. These are the things you need to carefully look into and study.

The dual periods of dawn and dusk are when sharks in this part of the world roam freely in search of prey. Although sightings will be at an all-time high, the risk that it carries will be considerably greater than at any other time of the day. Therefore, the later mornings, afternoons or evenings are the most favourable to be seen swimming to and fro with one of the planet’s most feared yet respected marine mammals.

One could argue that no amount of research and reading can ever compensate for the valuable lessons that you will learn while being in the company of a Maldivian diver. If you see yourself spending time in areas rampant in shark encounters, then it would be prudent on your behalf to enlist the services of a dive centre whose employees will readily assist you. Further, you can consider booking into a hotel or resort property that accommodates such whims and fancies. As one of the best things to do in Maldives, swimming with sharks can be experienced when based at Adaaran Select Meedhupparu which has its house reef which features a marvellous collection of marine life including lemon sharks and black-tip sharks that inhabit the lagoon waters. With a maximum depth of 30 meters, one will also be greeted by appealing table coral formations.