Maafushi is a lively island spot in the Maldives that’s perfect for exploring by boat or discovering underwater. Its location in Kaafu Atoll puts you at the heart of some of the best snorkeling, diving, and marine life encounters in the country. What makes Maafushi stand out is its accessibility and variety of tours — no long boat rides or expensive resorts needed to enjoy a rich experience. We particularly like the Boat Tour with Coral Garden Snorkeling and Lunch for its relaxed pace and scenic lunch on a sandbank, and the Sunset Fishing for its laid-back vibe and unbeatable views. Whether you want to swim with sea turtles or learn to cook Sri Lankan rice and curry, Maafushi’s tours offer something for all.
If you’re wondering which tour suits your style, we’ve prepared this list highlighting each experience’s unique features, practical details, and what makes it worth your time. Dive in to find your ideal Maldivian adventure.
- 1. Maafushi: Boat Tour with Coral Garden Snorkeling and Lunch
- 2. Maafushi: Nurse Sharks, Stingrays, Sand Bank and Dolphins
- 3. Maafushi: Discover Scuba Diving Class, First Time Experience
- 4. Kaafu Tour with Lunch
- 5. Maafushi: Turtles, Dolphins, and Coral Reef Adventure
- 6. Maafushi: Sri Lankan Rice and Curry Cooking Class
- 7. Maafushi: Adaaran Resort Evening Visit – Dinner & Alcohol
- 8. Sunset fishing
- How to Choose the Best Tour for You
- Final Thoughts
1. Maafushi: Boat Tour with Coral Garden Snorkeling and Lunch
This speedboat tour offers a fantastic introduction to Maafushi’s marine environment. For just $55 per person, you’ll explore a vibrant coral garden, where you can snorkel among colorful fish and coral formations. The highlight is snorkeling with sea turtles, which often feed and rest in designated areas. Keep your eyes peeled for pods of dolphins that frequently appear during the trip.
Beyond snorkel stops, the tour takes you to a scenic sandbank—perfect for photos or just relaxing in the sun. The tour includes a delicious lunch, often on the sandbank, making it a truly memorable day. With a 4.8-star rating from 39 reviews, travelers rave about the value and the chance to see marine life up close.
This tour is well-suited for travelers looking for a half-day adventure that combines snorkelling, wildlife spotting, and a scenic meal. It’s perfect if you want a balanced experience without spending all day on the water.
Bottom Line: A great budget-friendly choice for snorkelers who want to see turtles and dolphins in a relaxed setting.
2. Maafushi: Nurse Sharks, Stingrays, Sand Bank and Dolphins
This full-day tour for $100 per person takes you to Dhiggiri Sand Bank for a close encounter with nurse sharks and stingrays. The tour is ideal for those eager to get in the water and swim alongside these gentle creatures. It also includes dolphin watching, which is often a highlight for many.
What makes this tour stand out is the chance to swim among nurse sharks and stingrays, which is both safe and memorable. The scenery on the sandbank is spectacular, providing ample opportunities for photos and relaxing on white sands. The tour’s reviews note the superb opportunity to interact with marine life in their natural habitat.
It suits travelers who want an immersive experience with marine animals and enjoy a scenic lunch on the sandbank. It’s a bit pricier but offers more time and closer wildlife encounters.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those who want an active morning with sharks and rays, combined with dolphin spotting and scenic relaxation.
3. Maafushi: Discover Scuba Diving Class, First Time Experience
For around $110, this introductory scuba diving experience is ideal for first-timers. Guided by a professional diver, you’ll start with a theory session before heading to a breathtaking reef for practical underwater exploration. No previous experience needed, just a curiosity to see what’s beneath the surface.
What makes this tour stand out is the chance to dive into the world of marine life with minimal fuss. It’s suited for travelers who want a taste of diving without committing to certification. During the session, you’ll learn basic skills and enjoy snorkeling alongside colorful fish and coral.
Guests rave about the professional guidance and the chance to explore without feeling overwhelmed. It’s an excellent way to try scuba without a big investment or long certification process.
Bottom Line: Best for beginners eager to experience scuba in a safe, guided environment—an unforgettable first dive.
4. Kaafu Tour with Lunch
This half-day tour combines snorkeling at Turtle Reef and Nemo Reef with a relaxing lunch on a sandbank, all within Kaafu Atoll. For 5 hours, you’ll explore two popular snorkel sites known for their coral and marine life, then unwind on a picturesque island with locals’ favorite dishes.
The itinerary includes snorkeling around Turtle Reef and Nemo Reef, where you can spot sea turtles, colorful fish, and coral formations. Afterward, enjoy a generous lunch, then head back to the water for more snorkeling and possibly dolphin sightings. The tour has a good reputation for its well-organized itinerary and scenic stops.
Ideal for travelers with a limited amount of time who want a mix of underwater exploration and relaxation. It offers excellent value for a full-day trip, especially given the multiple snorkeling stops and included lunch.
Bottom Line: A well-rounded option for snorkelers who want a quick, scenic, and activity-packed day.
5. Maafushi: Turtles, Dolphins, and Coral Reef Adventure
This 8-hour tour emphasizes small-group experiences, focusing on snorkeling with sea turtles, watching dolphins, and exploring coral reefs. It’s designed to be intimate, with passionate guides sharing local secrets. Price is on the higher side, but the focus on personalized encounters makes it worthwhile.
The tour begins with snorkeling at the coral garden, then continues with dolphin watching and a second snorkeling session. The day includes a delicious lunch on a sandbank and plenty of time for photos. The small-group approach ensures you get more attention and better chances to see elusive wildlife.
While it has a lower review score of 2.3/5, the intent is to provide a more tailored experience. It’s suitable for travelers who prefer smaller groups and more personalized attention, especially those interested in marine conservation or photography.
Bottom Line: Best for eco-minded travelers wanting a private feel and personalized marine encounters.
6. Maafushi: Sri Lankan Rice and Curry Cooking Class
This cultural cooking class for $240 offers a hands-on way to learn Sri Lankan cuisine. Guided by local chefs, you’ll prepare a variety of aromatic rice and curry dishes, gaining insight into the culinary traditions of the region.
What makes this experience special is its focus on culture beyond the water. You’ll learn about the ingredients and techniques that make Sri Lankan rice and curry so beloved, from balancing flavors to mastering traditional cooking methods. The class often includes tasting your own creations and gaining new skills to recreate at home.
While more expensive, it’s perfect for food lovers or those seeking a deeper cultural connection. The experience is intimate, with personal attention from instructors.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for culinary enthusiasts looking to bring home authentic flavors and cooking skills.
7. Maafushi: Adaaran Resort Evening Visit – Dinner & Alcohol
This evening visit to Adaaran Rannalhi Resort combines luxury with fun. For around six hours, you can enjoy a buffet dinner and unlimited drinks, including wine and beer. The highlight is the live music or DJ, creating a festive atmosphere in a stunning island setting.
The tour starts with a 30-minute speedboat ride, then allows you to explore the resort’s facilities, dine, and unwind. It’s ideal for travelers looking for a more upscale experience or a relaxed night out. The reviews mention the stunning setting and the excellent drinks selection as major drawcards.
While it’s more of an entertainment-focused outing, it’s perfect if you want to experience Maldivian luxury without staying overnight at a resort.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers who enjoy nightlife, drinks, and a touch of luxury without the resort stay.
8. Sunset fishing
As a full-day experience, Sunset Fishing lets you enjoy the Maldives’ iconic sunset while trying your hand at local-style fishing using bait and hand lines. It’s a fun, relaxed way to experience local life and enjoy the beautiful evening views.
The tour includes a BBQ dinner back at your hotel, making it a complete evening outing. The big game fishing opportunity adds excitement for those wanting a bit of a challenge or thrill.
The trip begins with a transfer from Maafushi, then a few hours of fishing and sightseeing. The small group size (limited to 10) ensures a personalized experience, and the English-speaking instructor helps beginners and experienced anglers alike.
If you’re after a laid-back, social activity with the chance to catch fish and enjoy a stunning sunset, this tour fits the bill.
Bottom Line: Ideal for fishing enthusiasts and sunset lovers who want a memorable Maldivian night out.
How to Choose the Best Tour for You
When selecting from these options, consider your budget, interests, and time available. If you’re after a quick adventure with lots of marine life, the Maafushi: Boat Tour with Coral Garden Snorkeling and Lunch offers great value. For those eager to get in the water with sharks and rays, the Nurse Sharks, Stingrays, Sand Bank and Dolphins is a standout, though it’s pricier.
Cultural enthusiasts might prefer the Sri Lankan Rice and Curry Cooking Class for a taste of local cuisine. If luxury or nightlife appeals, the Adaaran Resort Evening Visit provides an elegant night out.
Consider your fitness level and whether you want a more personalized experience (see the small-group Turtles and Dolphins Adventure) or a straightforward day trip.
Final Thoughts
Maafushi offers a range of tours and experiences tailored to various interests and budgets. From snorkel safaris and diving lessons to cultural cooking classes and luxury resort visits, there’s something for all. For first-timers, the Boat Tour with Coral Garden Snorkeling is a solid choice, offering excellent value and memorable wildlife sightings. For a more personal touch, the small-group Turtles and Dolphins Adventure provides an intimate experience.
If you’re planning your trip, booking early is wise—these popular tours fill up quickly. With so many options, you’re sure to find a Maafushi experience that fits your style and leaves you with unforgettable memories of the Maldives.