The dreamy island country of the Maldives is not short of beautiful sights, the island is renowned for its captivating landscapes which attracts over a million of tourists every year.
But one rare sight occurs during a specific season that all travellers have to experience at least once in their lives.
Have you ever heard of a sea of stars? Well, that is something you’ll find in the Maldives – an enchanting phenomenon that takes place during the late summer.
The Sea of Stars is formed by tiny organisms known as bioluminescent phytoplankton, which light up the ocean when distributed.
The waters surrounding the islands are filled with plankton and the distirbution of them by movement of the waves causes them to light up, creating that sparkling effect that looks like the sea is full of stars.
It is not entirely known why these micorogranisms light up but scientists believe that the glowing is defense mechanism, a way to confuse predators. The clear waters across the islands are also the perfect environment for the organisms to thrive.
Vaadhoo Island, located in the Raa Atoll of the Maldives is renowned for the sight, where it is seen most often. However, it does also take place around other islands, specifically ones with less light pollution, so not to worry if you aren’t staying there.
Spots such as Mudhdhoo Islands, also known as Dhonakulhi Island in the Baa Atoll and other private resort islands have also offered the Sea of Stars experience.
There are recommended times to visit the Maldives if you want to experience the phenonmenon and that is the late summer to early winter, during the wet season, specifically between June and October.
It is the ideal time to witness the Sea of Stars because it is when there is a high concentration of plankton and the organisms are most active.
Visiting the shoreline after sunset or when its dark will make the experience even better, because of course as the night progress the more intense the glow will be. Experiencing this sight is a must for any travellers planning a trip to the island.
