Maafushi: Underwater Scooter Rental & Snorkeling Mask

Summary

Glide beneath Maafushi’s surface on an underwater scooter for close-up reef views

You’ll slip beneath Maafushi’s waves with an underwater scooter, guided by locals who show you the ropes before letting you set your own pace. Watch parrotfish flash by and drift over coral gardens with just a mask—no fins or strong swimming needed. The feeling sticks with you long after: part adventure, part quiet wonder.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed was how quiet it got once I dipped under — not silent, but kind of muffled, like the ocean was holding its breath. Our guide, Sami, showed me how to steer the underwater scooter (he called it a “sea bike,” which made me laugh) and waited until I nodded before letting go. It felt weird at first — you don’t kick, just grip the handles and let the little engine pull you along. My mask kept fogging up from nerves or maybe just excitement.

I kept drifting toward this patch of bright coral near Maafushi’s edge, and a parrotfish zipped by so close I could almost count its scales. The scooter didn’t go fast — just enough that I could feel the current on my arms but not so much that I missed anything. Sami waved from above now and then, checking in with a thumbs-up. There was this moment when a school of tiny silver fish darted right in front of me; honestly, I forgot to breathe for a second.

Ten minutes went by faster than I expected (you can do twenty if you want). When I surfaced, salt stung my lips and my hair stuck everywhere, but I couldn’t stop grinning. No fins needed — just you, a snorkeling mask, and this odd little machine that makes you feel like some kind of slow-motion explorer. It’s not fancy or complicated; you just get to see Maafushi’s reef up close without worrying about your swimming skills. If you’re even half-curious about what’s under there, it’s worth it.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Underwater scooter experience in Maafushi

• Receive snorkeling mask
• Learn basic underwater scooter techniques
• Enjoy underwater scooter ride
• Explore coral reefs and sea creatures
• Discover hidden coves and caves

Top questions

How long is the underwater scooter rental in Maafushi?

You can choose between 10 or 20 minutes for the underwater scooter experience.

Is a guide included during the Maafushi underwater scooter ride?

A local crew member teaches you basic techniques before your ride and checks in while you're in the water.

Do I need to know how to swim well for this activity?

No strong swimming skills are required; the scooter does most of the work and no fins are needed.

What equipment is provided with the underwater scooter rental?

A snorkeling mask is included; fins are not required for this experience.

Where does the Maafushi underwater scooter tour start?

The activity starts on Maafushi island; public transportation options are available nearby.

What’s included

Your time includes an underwater scooter rental for either 10 or 20 minutes at your choice plus a snorkeling mask provided by the crew—no need for fins or extra gear—along with basic instruction before heading out into Maafushi’s clear waters at your own pace.