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Beneath the Surface: Tracking the Secrets of the Deep

📍Maldives, Indian Ocean

Miyaru Programme is a nonprofit organization dedicated to protecting sharks in the Maldives through deep sea research and community engagement.

View Our Upcoming 2026 Trip →

About Miyaru

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To advance shark conservation across the Maldives and Indian Ocean, Miyaru’s work focuses on:

  • Collecting and analyzing data to guide conservation strategies.
    Scientists gather DNA sharks shed into the water to get an ecosystem’s species snapshot. Another key program uses non-invasive ultrasound technology to study the reproductive biology of tiger sharks.

  • Monitoring critical habitats and migratory routes.
    In partnership with the National Geographic Exploration Technology Lab, Miyaru deploys deep-sea cameras to track sharks in areas now at risk from new fishing regulations, helping protect species that were previously shielded by a decade-long ban.

  • Collaborating with local conservationists.
    Miyaru maintains a network for shark researchers across the Maldives, improving coordination, knowledge-sharing, and the overall effectiveness of conservation efforts.

  • Educating the public about sharks and rays.
    Through community training sessions and shark social events, Miyaru helps people understand the vital role these species play in healthy ocean ecosystems.

How We Work Together

SOSA has partnered with Miyaru to offer an immersive conservation expedition in March 2026. Travelers will snorkel alongside scientists, witnessing marine research firsthand and exploring the vibrant coral reefs that form the foundation of the Maldivian islands. A portion of the proceeds from this island-hopping and snorkeling experience supports Miyaru’s work, helping fund essential research equipment - a new BRUV camera - to expand their studies and protect the Maldives’ remarkable marine life and shark species within. 

Why Sharks Matter

Sharks are indicator species → their health reflects the wellbeing of our oceans. The Maldives hosts over 20 shark species, many globally threatened, including:

  • Blacktip Reef Shark (Vulnerable)
  • Grey Reef Shark (Endangered)
  • Indo-Pacific Leopard Shark (Endangered)
  • Whitetip Reef Shark (Vulnerable)

Learn more about Miyaru and how you can support Maldivian shark conservation at miyaru.org

Want to join us in field with Miyaru? Join us for the Maldives Island Hop & Snorkel with Miyaru.