The Ministry of Tourism in the Maldives has unveiled new safety guidelines aimed at minimizing accidents during watersports and other water-based tourist activities. This initiative follows several tragic incidents involving tourists during aquatic excursions, and the guidelines are designed to ensure a safer environment for visitors.

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In a circular issued on Thursday, the Ministry outlined a set of interim safety measures while a formal regulation is being developed. These measures will apply to tourism service providers, including councils, guesthouses, hotels, homestays, tourist vessels, and diving operators.

Key Safety Sandards fo Watersports

The new safety standards require that:

• Pre-Activity Safety Briefings: Participants must receive comprehensive safety information before engaging in any watersport activity.
• Safety Equipment Compliance: All aquatic equipment must meet established safety standards and should only be used for its designated purpose.
• Designated Activity Zones: Watersport activities must take place in clearly marked areas specifically designated for each sport.
• Life Jackets for Non-Swimmers: Tourists who cannot swim must wear life jackets during all water-based activities.
• Weather Monitoring: Operators must closely monitor weather conditions, halting activities if a warning is issued or if an instructor deems the conditions unsafe.
• Weather Condition Indicators: Colour-coded flags or balloons (white, yellow, orange, red, or green) should be displayed to signal any changes in weather conditions.
• Communication Protocols: Instructors must maintain a reliable means of communication with the aquatic center to be prepared for emergency situations.
• Participant Record-Keeping: Service providers must keep a logbook of participants, documenting their names and identification or passport numbers.

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These guidelines reflect the Ministry’s commitment to enhancing the safety of tourists, particularly those engaging in beach and water-based activities. The introduction of these standards is part of a broader initiative to improve safety measures within the Maldives' tourism sector.

Official Circular issued by Ministry of Tourism regarding water sports service operations