Departures

Vestibule (Diocletian’s Palace) in Split, Croatia. Diocletian's Palace is an ancient Roman

Conservation cruise experiences with Secret Paradise Maldives allow solo travellers to explore beyond the beauty of the Maldives beaches.

Secret Paradise and the soul of the Maldives

Briefly …

Secret Paradise Maldives is reshaping the way solo travellers experience the islands, combining cultural immersion, marine conservation, and community connection beyond the beaches.

Ruth Franklin, Co-Founder of Secret Paradise Maldives, discovered the Maldives over 20 years ago, after first visiting as a scuba diver in search of mantas and whale sharks. “I always consider myself lucky to have made a group of Maldivian friends who would invite me to their family homes for dinner, share afternoon hedhikaa (small savoury and/or sweet treats), coffee and betel nuts!”, Ruth tells The Solo Traveller. “My love and appreciation of this country resulted in me visiting the archipelago on over 30 occasions, before co-founding Secret Paradise in 2012. It was my own experience of Maldivian hospitality that gave rise to the community aspects of our tours, which allows travellers to engage with local businesses, families and non-government organisations (NGOs).”

“We work closely with marine conservation organisations, including the Olive Ridley Project, the Maldives Whale Shark Research Program, and the Maldives Manta Conservation Project – each of whom inspire us daily. We value these partnerships because they allow our guests to see conservation in action, learn about marine species, and contribute to efforts that protect the Maldives’ natural resources for the future. Their resilience, hospitality, and determination to protect their environment encourage us to keep improving our responsible tourism practices.”

Secret Paradise Maldives works closely with marine conservation organisations, including the Maldives Whale Shark Research Program.

“Our day tours, multi-day island-hopping tours, and conservation cruise experiences allow solo travellers to explore beyond the beauty of the Maldives beaches. Options include snorkelling the coral reefs, discovering marine life with expert local guides, learning about Maldivian culture on local islands, and participating in citizen science. Solo travellers can choose private tours with a Tour Leader or join small groups, making it easy to connect with others while retaining personal space and freedom.”

Our day tours allow solo travellers to explore beyond the beauty of the Maldives beaches.

The critically endangered Hawksbill sea turtle is considered by many to be the most beautiful of all turtle species.

“Travelling solo can be liberating but also challenging. By creating safe, welcoming, and authentic experiences, we ensure solo travellers can immerse themselves fully in Maldivian life and marine environments without worrying about logistics. We want all of our guests to leave with memories that come from meaningful connections with people and place.”

“The Maldives is often promoted as a destination for honeymooners and couples, but it is far more than that. Increasingly, solo travellers are discovering that even in resorts, it is common to see people travelling alone. Solo travellers often worry about feeling isolated in the Maldives, but travelling with us means being part of a small group that supports each other while exploring. With our focus on sustainable tourism, our guests contribute to protecting the environment and supporting local communities.”

Wandering Guraidhoo, one of the small islands of Kaafu Atoll in the Maldives.

For Sophie, a solo traveller who recently returned from a Secret Paradise Maldives conservation cruise, the “incredible experience with Secret Paradise was one that went far beyond a typical holiday. The balance of cultural insight and environmental awareness made the trip feel both meaningful and inspiring.”

A highlight of the experience for Sophie was “the opportunity to contribute to whale shark research. Knowing that the data we collected could help scientists and conservationists protect these gentle giants for future generations was incredibly rewarding. It felt amazing to play a small role in something so important, while also deepening my own understanding of marine ecosystems.”

The balance of cultural insight and environmental awareness made the trip feel both meaningful and inspiring. Photography: Frederik Stadager.

Beach Cleans help protect the environment and improve our responsible tourism practices.

While weather patterns worldwide are showing greater variability – with changes in rainfall, temperature, and storm activity occurring more frequently – is there an ideal time to visit? “Our tours operate year-round. Historically, the dry season from December to April offers the calmest seas and best visibility for Maldives snorkelling and scuba diving. The wet season from May to November is still an excellent time to travel, with fewer crowds.”

Today, Ruth feels immensely privileged to call the Maldives her home. “In the spirit of being a considerate guest, I hold deep respect for the country, its communities, and its beautiful and diverse natural environment.”