Whale Shark Probability
Where and when you actually have a chance of swimming with a whale shark — and where not to bother.
Unique: includes Fuvahmulah and Maamigili separate scores; most calculators lump them together.
What this solves
Whale sharks are resident year-round in the Maldives, but South Ari (especially around Maamigili) and Fuvahmulah are far more reliable than other atolls. Outside these hotspots, your probability of seeing one drops dramatically. This tool gives a realistic score, not a tourist-board fantasy.
How to read results
- South Ari: best in SW monsoon (May–Nov) for surface-feeding plankton blooms; year-round at depth.
- Fuvahmulah: arguably the most reliable place in the world — encounters reported 95%+ of dives, year-round.
- Other atolls: chance encounters on a few dives; not worth a dedicated trip.
Limitations
Whale sharks are protected under Maldivian law. No touching, no chasing, no flash photography. Operators that "guarantee" encounters or aggressively pursue them are violating the marine park rules.
Encounters are wild animals — they decide whether to surface near you. A 90% probability means 1 in 10 trips may see nothing.
FAQ
When is the South Ari peak?
Surface feeding peaks around the SW monsoon (May–November) when plankton blooms are densest. Dive encounters with deeper sharks are year-round.
Is Fuvahmulah worth the trip?
Yes, if whale sharks and big-animal diving are your priority. It's a one-island atoll in the south — needs a domestic flight + speedboat or a long speedboat from Addu.
About
Built from Maldives Whale Shark Research Program (MWSRP) sighting data and Fuvahmulah dive operator logs.
Privacy
Local calculation.
Disclaimer
Wildlife is never guaranteed. Always follow the Maldivian whale shark code of conduct.