Day 82 - MALE, MALDIVES (Day 1)

 Date: 3/27/2024     Day 82                       Port: MALE, MALDIVES

Description: Malé, the capital of the Republic of Maldives, is located at the southern edge of North Male’ Atoll Kaafu Atoll. Traditionally, Malé was the “King’s Island,” from where the ancient Maldive Royal families had their palace and ruled the country. Malé is dotted with mosques, wide streets, parks and markets. Tour the national Museum, the colorful Fish Market and the Friday mosque with its splendid golden dome.

Planned Excursion: MALDIVES SNORKELING (Ed & Joe Rawson)

2 Hours     Strenuous Activity    # MLE-001: Free

Sail to Hulhumale Island, the Maldivian government’s largest reclamation project.  Appreciate the artificial island’s palm-lined streets and beach that gradually drops into the crystal-clear water.  Embark on an unguided snorkeling adventure in the warm Maldivian waters.  Glory in an unending variety of multi-hued fish, such as clownfish, Moorish idols and oriental sweetlips.  Spot a graceful eagle ray or larger manta ray.  Revel in free time in the tranquil village to browse inviting shops or have a bite to eat.

Planned Excursion: GULHI VILLAGE ISLAND TOUR (Cathy and Pat Rawson)

5.0 Hours   Moderate Activity     # MLE-0015: Free

Cruise to tiny Gulhi Island and spend time relaxing on one of the beaches.  (cancelled)

Cathy and Pat decided to cancel their planned excursion and go shopping instead.

Today's Notes:  The snorkeling excursion was the best so far.  Joe and I both really enjoyed it with many colorful fish to observe.  We explored two locations, one near a reef and the other off a private island.  Cathy and Pat spent most of the day in town shopping.  Due the to Ramadan, the shops were only open 9 AM - 1 PM. They did a lot of walking and Pat was pretty exhausted by the time they got back onboard.  

We are in Male for two days.  I have a lot of video from the snorkeling excursion.  As I write this Cathy and I are preparing to go out to a private resort for the day and do more snorkeling.   We have a sea day before our first stop in India.  I hope to spend the day reviewing, editing and uploading video taken over the two days in Male.  I will post that video in my day 2 here in Male.