Dive with rays and whale sharks

The ultimate luxury boat, the Four Seasons Explorer, is the base for two holidays this year offering conservation dives with mantra rays and whale sharks in The Maldives

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This year Four Seasons Explorer is offering the chance for guests to embark on a research expedition to study manta rays and whale sharks in The Maldives.

The all-inclusive seven-day expeditions will allow guests to experience the work and research of the world's leading manta ray charity, The Manta Trust, immerse themselves in every aspect of the conservation experience, and be accompanied by The Manta Trust founder, Guy Stevens.

Activities will include learning how to free dive, helping record critical environmental information, participating in workshops and the chance to name new mantas on the Trust's database.

The expeditions will take place during peak sighting periods and are suitable for divers and non-divers alike. The first excursion will be from 21st to 28th August and the second will be 11th to the 18th September.

Hosted on the luxurious Four Seasons Explorer, the experience also includes snorkel hotspots, cultural experiences, sandbank barbecues and water sports.

Guy Stevens says, 'The Maldives is one of the best places in the world to study these fascinating creatures due to the large manta ray and whale shark populations, and there's no finer vessel than Four Seasons Explorer to embark on that journey.

'Education is the most important step in achieving environmental protection,' he added. 'But we hope these expeditions also showcase the fun and excitement that can be experienced along the way.'

Prices from £3,414 per person. For more information, view the Four Seasons Explorer website, or for rates and enquiries, please contact the Reservations Department on reservations.mal@fourseasons.com.

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Katy Birchall is a journalist and the author of several young adult and teen novels, including The It Girl series and the Hotel Royale series. She has written a retelling of Jane Austen’s Emma for the Awesomely Austen series and the Netflix spin-off novel Sex Education: The Road Trip. She is also the author of several romantic comedies for adults including The Secret Bridesmaid and The Wedding Season. She writes romantic fiction for young adults under the name Ivy Bailey, romantic-comedy under the name Katrina Logan, and romantic sports fiction for adults under Katherine Reilly. She lives in London with her husband, daughter and rescue dog.