The Giants of the Indian Ocean: What Are the Biggest Sharks in the Maldives?

The Maldives is world-renowned as a premier diving destination, largely thanks to its healthy and diverse shark populations. For travelers and divers asking, "What are the biggest sharks in the Maldives?", the answer includes a mix of gentle filter-feeders and powerful apex predators.

From the massive Whale Shark to the elusive Great Hammerhead, here is your guide to the largest shark species patrolling Maldivian waters.

1. The Whale Shark (Rhincodon typus)

The undisputed king of the Maldivian reefs is the Whale Shark. Not only is it the biggest shark in the Maldives, but it is also the largest fish in the world.

• Average Size: 5.5 to 10 meters (though they can reach up to 18 meters).

• Best Spots to See Them: South Ari Atoll (year-round) and Baa Atoll’s Hanifaru Bay (seasonal, May–November).

• Behavior: These "gentle giants" are filter-feeders, consuming plankton and small fish. They are harmless to humans, making them the top bucket-list item for snorkelers.

2. The Tiger Shark (Galeocerdo cuvier)

The Tiger Shark is the largest predatory shark frequently found in the archipelago. Known for the dark stripes on their bodies, these sharks are powerful apex predators.

• Average Size: 3.5 to 5 meters.

• Best Spot to See Them: Fuvahmulah Island. This "one-island atoll" in the deep south is home to a famous resident population of over 200 Tiger Sharks.

• Behavior: While they are formidable hunters, encounters in Fuvahmulah are highly regulated and led by professional dive guides.

3. The Great Hammerhead Shark (Sphyrna mokarran)

While the smaller Scalloped Hammerheads are more common, the Great Hammerhead is the giant of the family occasionally spotted in the deep channels of the Maldives.

• Average Size: 3.5 to 4.5 meters (reaching up to 6 meters).

• Best Spots to See Them: Rasdhoo Atoll (Hammerhead Point) and Fuvahmulah.

• Behavior: Recognized by their tall, sickle-shaped dorsal fin and flat "hammer" head, they are shy and usually found in deeper waters or during early morning "dawn dives."

4. The Tawny Nurse Shark (Nebrius ferrugineus)

If you’ve seen photos of tourists surrounded by dozens of large, brownish sharks, you’re looking at Nurse Sharks. While they aren't "scary" predators, they grow surprisingly large.

• Average Size: 2.5 to 3.2 meters.

• Best Spots to See Them: Vaavu Atoll (specifically Fulidhoo and Alimathā Jetty).

• Behavior: Often found resting on the sandy bottom or in caves during the day, they become highly active at night. They are generally docile but should always be treated with respect.

Quick Comparison: Maldives Shark Sizes

Are Sharks in the Maldives Dangerous?

Despite their size, shark encounters in the Maldives are incredibly safe. The Maldives declared its entire territory a shark sanctuary in 2010, meaning populations are protected and generally well-fed by the natural ecosystem.

Safety Tips for Swimmers:

• Never feed the sharks: It disrupts their natural behavior.

• Keep your distance: Use a "look but don't touch" policy.

• Dive with professionals: For larger species like Tiger Sharks, always go with a certified local dive center.