The Role of SAMPA and the Need for Responsible Tourism

The Role of SAMPA and the Need for Responsible Tourism

The Maldives is one of the best places in the world to swim with whale sharks, and South Ari Atoll is at the heart of this experience. Thanks to a year-round population of these gentle giants, the region has become a magnet for marine enthusiasts eager for an unforgettable encounter. However, the surge in tourism, inadequate regulations, and a lack of proper guidelines have led to growing concerns for both tourist safety and whale shark conservation.

Why Are Whale Sharks Found in South Ari?

South Ari Atoll is one of the few places in the world where whale sharks can be observed consistently throughout the year. The combination of warm tropical waters, rich plankton blooms, and deep channels create an ideal feeding ground for these filter-feeding giants. Many of the whale sharks found in the area are juveniles, making it an important habitat for their growth and development. This has led to increased research and conservation efforts to protect them.

What is SAMPA and Why is it Important?

The South Ari Marine Protected Area (SAMPA) was established to ensure the sustainable management of whale shark encounters. With guidance from the Hanifaru Bay Marine Protected Area, the Maldives Whale Shark Research Programme (MWSRP), and local stakeholders, the SAMPA Management Plan aims to protect these magnificent creatures while promoting responsible tourism.

SAMPA has introduced a certification programme for snorkelling guides, requiring them to undergo training and pass an exam to ensure safe interactions with whale sharks. Additionally, vessel regulations have been implemented to limit speeds, prevent overcrowding, and reduce the risk of boat strikes.

Tourist Safety & Risks to Whale Sharks

While snorkelling with whale sharks is a thrilling experience, the lack of proper enforcement has led to major safety concerns. Tourists often jump into the water chaotically, leading to overcrowding and accidental injuries. Tragically, there have been recent tourist deaths in South Ari due to boat propellers, highlighting the urgent need for stricter controls.

Beyond human risks, whale sharks are facing harassment from reckless tourism practices. Many snorkellers get too close, blocking their movement, chasing them, or even touching them—which can be stressful for these gentle creatures. Boat strikes are another major concern, as propeller injuries have been documented on several whale sharks in the region.

New Regulations for Sustainable Encounters

To address these concerns, SAMPA’s management plan introduces several key regulations:

• Guided Encounters: For every six guests, there must be a SAMPA-registered guide who ensures that snorkellers follow responsible practices.
• Vessel Restrictions: Boats must stay at least 25 metres apart, reduce speeds to five knots within 250 metres of a whale shark, and two knots within 50 metres.
• Limited Time & Numbers: No more than 60 people can be in the water at a time, with a maximum duration of 15 minutes per encounter.
• Respecting Boundaries: Snorkellers must stay three metres away from the body and four metres from the tail, never obstructing or touching the whale shark.
• Prohibited Activities: Feeding whale sharks, using flash photography, and drone operations below 30 metres are banned to minimise disruption.

These changes are expected to create a better experience for both tourists and the whale sharks, ensuring that encounters remain safe, ethical, and sustainable.

The Future of Whale Shark Tourism in the Maldives

The Maldives has long been a bucket-list destination for marine lovers, but without proper conservation measures, this delicate ecosystem could suffer irreversible damage. SAMPA’s new guidelines are a step in the right direction, but enforcement and education remain crucial. Visitors must also take responsibility by choosing eco-conscious operators and following ethical snorkelling practices.

By respecting these incredible creatures and the environment they inhabit, we can ensure that future generations will also have the privilege of witnessing the majestic whale shark in the wild—safely and sustainably.