Guardians of Giants

This photostory was made possible thanks to the Maldives Whale Shark Research Programme and Secret Paradise Maldives. It has been published by both Ocean Culture Life and the Maldives Independent.

In April, the Maldives Whale Shark Research Programme (MWSRP) embarked on a 10-day expedition in South Ari Atoll to study and protect the endangered whale shark—the largest fish in the ocean and a cultural icon of the Maldives.

From the deck of MV Felicity, researchers and volunteers surveyed the South Ari Marine Protected Area, recording sightings of marine life, collecting environmental data, and documenting whale shark encounters. Over nine encounters, six individuals were identified, offering both extraordinary moments of connection and sobering reminders of the threats these animals face, including boat strikes and overcrowded tourism.

This photostory captures the delicate balance between conservation and human interaction, showcasing the dedication of MWSRP’s team and the urgency of safeguarding these gentle giants for the future.

Chloe Winn, lead Field Coordinator & Communications Manager for MWSRP, on the lookout.

WS337 Shaiban, one of the top three most sighted sharks in the area.

The April 2025 trip's staff and volunteers.

Ibbe, the Captain of the research vessel.

WS807, a currently unnamed female spotted for the first time during this trip, being observed.

Chloe observing WS807.

Chloe and her In-Field Assistant, Zim, calibrate their stereojig.

WS807.

Zim surfacing after a free dive to take ID shots of a shark.

Kamey, the tour leader of our host, Secret Paradise, collects plankton samples.

WS732 Vidhaa Thari feeding.

After each sighting, variable measurements are taken in the area.

Plankton is collected from the sites as well.

Zim studies and logs the collected plankton.

Whale sharks in South Ari Atoll are often overcrowded by tourists.

WS350 Hudhu Veli, a young shark with severe propeller injuries - most likely sustained from boats illegally speeding in the area and getting too close to the animals.

At the end of each day, the volunteers log the data collected throughout the day and ID the sharks.

WS732 Vidhaa Thari.

WS294 Reygandhu, exhibiting some minor injuries.

Our home for the trip, MV Felicity - provided by Secret Paradise Maldives.

Guardians of Giants

Guardians of Giants

Behind the scenes on kodak Gold 35mm