Itinerary cruise "Atolls of the Maldives: Natural Aquariums and Blue Lagoons"

Embarking.

Le Ponant then heads for Thaa where you will discover another colourful scene. Above the coral mass near the channel mouth it is not unusual to come across shoals of barracuda. Then there are the Dhaalu or Faafu atolls - so many protected outcrops waiting to reveal their secrets. Finally, the Ari Atoll occupies a large oval-shaped lagoon dotted with reefs where the abundance of marine life creates a nutrient-rich environment attracting the large pelagic creatures which divers come here to admire.

South-west of Sri Lanka, a necklace of tropical islands in the middle of the sea basks in the sunshine. “Pearl of the Indian Ocean”, the Maldives archipelago embraces nearly 1,200 islands and 19 atolls protected by coral reefs in crystal clear blue waters. For those who love diving, the word Maldives is synonymous with excellent scuba-diving. Fringed by white sandy beaches and coconut trees, the various atolls are open invitations to dive or snorkel in turquoise lagoons teeming with thousands of multi-coloured fish.

To take full advantage of the nautical activities on offer, Le Ponant will be hovering alongside some of the most isolated atolls, including the superb coral reef at Felidhe which is literally teeming with shoals of fish. The reef plunges vertically into the depths where you may be lucky to see several species of shark and even catch a glimpse of the unmistakable silhouette of a hammerhead shark.

Disembarking.