Day 83 – Malé, Maldives

As we learned yesterday, the Maldives is Asia’s smallest country, consisting of 26 atolls covering approximately 115 square miles. This tropical paradise is filled with white-sand beaches, and its waters contain colorful reef fish and coral gardens.

The weather forecast for today was not great, with showers or even torrential rain predicted. As we sailed into Malé, the capital of the Maldives, it was quite gloomy, although it wasn’t yet raining. We anchored a short distance from the jetty and became the first Viking ship to visit the Maldives.

Malé is the opposite of everyone’s picture of the Maldives. With a population of about 133,000 in an area of 2.24 square miles, it is the fifth most densely populated island on earth. There are no luxury resorts on this island.

Sailing into Malé 

I had originally booked a walking tour of Malé, but when that excursion was cancelled, I had to ponder my options. Tim was taking the included tour, which was a day at a beach resort on a private island, but I’m not a beach person. Instead, I decided to discover the underwater world of the Maldives on an optional excursion, “Submarine Dive and Marine Life.” This was the description:

Embark on an immersive journey to explore the captivating underwater world and marine life of the Maldives. Board a submarine, where you will initially descend to a depth of 80 feet. At this level, you will be greeted by a vibrant display of coral and a diverse array of reef fish species. As you venture further into the depths, you will navigate through an enchanting underwater garden, teeming with tropical fish. As the coral formations shift, you will have the opportunity to observe species such as the common lionfish, yellow box fish and turtles. Observe in awe as you journey through this picturesque underwater garden, illuminated by the external lights of the submarine. Witness the various species of fish seeking refuge within the cave, and perhaps catch a glimpse of white tip reef sharks and Napoleon fish. Afterward, ascend to the surface and return to your awaiting ship.

Malé was a tender port, and after a short ride, we reached the jetty and boarded a small boat that took us to the submarine platform. This was my first time on a submarine, and I figured it might be the only way for me to venture underwater, since I don’t snorkel. The vessel was much larger than I had expected, and everyone had a porthole window.

Sailing to the Jetty

Whale Submarine and Its Platform

Our Whale Submarine

My View Through the Porthole Window

Because of the recent rains, the water was not as clear as usual, but we saw lots of fish. When anyone asked me what we saw, I simply said, “fish”! I had no idea what kind of fish they were! My phone camera was not up to the challenge of photographing the fish, but I still gave it a try.

Fish!

More Fish!

Most of the coral we passed seemed to be bleached, and I caught a glimpse of only a very few examples of what I guessed were colorful coral formations. Again, my camera could not capture the colors or details. The coral reef was still interesting to see.

Coral Reef

The submarine ride was a blast, and this adventure was so much fun. By the time we ascended to the surface, the skies had cleared, and there were welcome patches of blue with white fluffy clouds. I know that made the folks at the beach very happy.

Returning to the Jetty Under Much Prettier Skies

After returning to the jetty in Malé, I decided to stay in town to visit a few of the sights I had heard about. My first destination was the Malé Friday Mosque, the oldest mosque in the Maldives, completed in 1658, and in continuous use since it was built.

The Malé Friday Mosque compound has been described as the largest and one of the finest coral stone buildings in the world, and it is one of several coral stone mosques in the Maldives. These mosques are architecturally unique, combining local and regional influences to create a synthesis that reflects the country’s position at the crossroads of the trade routes in the Indian Ocean.

The Malé Friday Mosque Compound

The Malé Friday Mosque compound is surrounded by a wall, and includes the mosque itself, a seventeenth-century cemetery, and a minaret, which was built in 1675. I wasn’t sure if I could visit the interior, but I was able to tag along with a private tour, which allowed me to see the architecture of this historic building. Of course, I had to be outfitted with a hijab and remove my shoes before entering.

The Interior of the Malé Friday Mosque Compound, and My New Look

Across the street from the mosque is Mulee’aage, or the Muliaage palace, the official residence of the president of the Maldives. Only the top of the palace is visible, but the gate includes an image of the structure.

Mulee’aage

I walked down the street and wound up in front of the Islamic Center. This landmark was inaugurated in 1984 and is the largest mosque in the Maldives and one of the largest in Asia.

Islamic Center

From there, I made my way past several parks and open spaces to the bustling market, where I wandered the aisles, marveling at the fruits and vegetables that were so exotic to me. Although I missed the fish market, I somehow managed to capture a photo of the truck carrying fresh tuna as it made its way to the pier, where Executive Chef Alastair made his selection.

Parks and Other Public Spaces

Produce Market

We'll Have This Tuna for Lunch Tomorrow

I finally returned to the jetty, where I caught the next tender back to the ship.

A Tender Ride Back to Viking Sky

The skies put on quite a show as we sailed away from the Maldives. It was then time to head to Manfredi’s private dining room for a birthday party for our friend Jaki. It was a wonderful evening, with good company and good food. Happy Birthday, Jaki!

Sailing Away from the Maldives

Happy Birthday, Jaki