Marine tours with depth

Join us on our marine wildlife cruises to contribute to valuable marine research, explore remote destinations, and encounter fascinating wildlife for a truly unique experience.

THE WHALE & DOLPHIN COMPANY

Dr Charles Anderson

I moved to the Maldives from the UK in 1983. For 15 years I worked for the Ministry of Fisheries in Malé, initially as a fishery statistician and subsequently as a founding member of the Marine Research Centre (MRC, now the Maldives Marine Research Institute). In 1998, with my wife Susan, I set up the Whale and Dolphin Company. 

By joining our 10-12 day trips not only will you have an incredible experience, but you’ll also directly contribute to marine research and conservation efforts. At the Whale and Dolphin Company, we believe that everyone who takes part in our trips has a role to play in preserving the beauty and diversity of our oceans. Come be a part of this important mission with us.

EXPLORE OUR DESTINATIONS

Indonesia (Bali-Komodo)

10 Days

Explore Indonesia’s stunning marine life, including 18 species of whales and dolphins, with a special focus on the rare Eden’s Whale. The highlight of this adventure is the two full days spent in the awe-inspiring Komodo National Park, home to magnificent Manta Rays and the legendary Komodo Dragons. Discover Indonesia's marine treasures with us.

Sri Lanka

15 Days

Experience the ultimate whale and dolphin-watching adventure in the crystal-clear waters of Sri Lanka, where Blue Whale sightings are almost guaranteed! You’ll also encounter playful dolphins and embark on game drives in Wilpattu, where Leopards and other wildlife and cultural wonders are a common sight. It’s a journey of a lifetime!

Solomon Islands

11 Days

Discover the hidden gem of the South Pacific, the rugged and jungle-clad Solomon Islands. Once remembered for fierce land and sea battles during WW2, this tropical archipelago is now known for its splendid diversity of traditional village life, the rich variety of wildlife, including kaleidoscopic coral reefs, and an astonishing array of cetaceans!

Indonesia (Raja Ampat)

10 Days

Our wildlife cruise starts from the town of Sorong, on the western tip of the great island of Papua. Just offshore lies the archipelago of Raja Ampat (‘Four Kings’, named for the four largest islands in the group). Most of the islands remain cloaked in forest, and are home to a wealth of birdlife, including the Red Bird-of-paradise and Wilson’s Bird-of-paradise. While nestling in the surrounding seas are the richest coral reefs in the world, where we can expect to enjoy plenty of wonderful snorkelling.

Coral Triangle Explorations

10-14 Days

We love exploring new areas. We have been the pioneers of cetacean watching at numerous sites right across the Indo-west Pacific. But the World is a big place, and there are plenty more areas to explore. Using our unparalleled experience we are exploring a series of new locations that promise wonderful cetacean encounters. All are within the Coral Triangle (the area of the world ocean with the greatest marine biodiversity) so all also promise superb coral reef snorkelling.

Maldives

12 Days

Join our marine wildlife cruises in the Maldives for an unforgettable adventure. Explore the stunning landscapes of picture-perfect islands, white sand beaches, and turquoise lagoons, and observe the less-known 23 species of cetaceans thriving in Maldivian waters. With Dr. Chas as your guide, immerse yourself in the natural wonders of the Maldives like never before.

EXTRAORDINARY EXPERIENCES

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Whales and Dolphins

The major focus of all our trips is searching for whales and dolphins. With our exclusive charters, we are able to spend as much time as we want with the animals, providing exceptional views and photo opportunities. We specialise in little-visited locations, which have a great diversity of cetaceans.

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Snorkelling

Experience extraordinary coral reef excursions, offered by our expert local snorkel guides. One or two sessions are offered each day! Visit all the best, secret places known only by the locals!

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Natural History

As the sun sets, join us for Chas’s entertaining illustrated talks and dive deeper into the fascinating world of marine life. With Chas as your guide, you’ll gain a newfound appreciation for the wonders of the ocean and leave with unforgettable memories.

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Wildlife Photography

Join us on our small group tours and get up close and personal with wildlife. Our tours are so intimate and awe-inspiring that professional photographers choose us time and again.

COMMITTED TO CONSERVATION

Carbon Neutral Cruises:

Our marine wildlife cruises are carbon balanced through the World Land Trust, ensuring that all fuel usage is offset through conservation efforts.

Supporting Local Communities

We distribute free seeds to interested villagers on the islands we visit, enabling them to grow vegetables for their own families or sell back to us for a regular source of income.

Biofuel-Powered Vessels

Our vessels have taken measures to reduce their environmental impact, such as converting to run on biofuel and fitting solar panels to supply electricity.

Preventing Bycatch

Our fisheries work is focused on the issue of bycatch, ensuring species such as sharks, turtles, whales, and dolphins are not caught incidentally while targeting other fish.