Maldives
A guided snorkeling safari usually means joining a small group (8-15 people) on a dhoni boat for a full day or multi-day trip. You'll cruise between multiple reef sites, often including a couple of channels where stronger currents bring in bigger marine life. Expect 3-4 snorkel stops per day, surface intervals with snacks and lunch on board, and a guide in the water pointing out turtles, reef sharks, rays, and schools of fish. The experience is more active and educational than a standard resort house reef swim; it's genuinely tiring but rewarding if you like being in the water for hours. Visibility is typically excellent (15-30m) but can drop after rain.
Best time is the dry season from December to April when seas are calmer and visibility is more reliable. June to November brings cheaper prices and fewer crowds but rougher water and higher chance of plankton-heavy seas that reduce visibility. Expect to pay around $80-150 for a full-day trip from a local island or resort, or $180-350 per person per day for a 4-7 day liveaboard-style safari including meals and cabin.
Pick operators that limit group size and supply quality fins/masks; skip the absolute cheapest options that pack 25 people on one boat with rushed snorkels. Bring your own mask and snorkel if you have them – rental gear is often average. If you're a strong swimmer and enjoy marine life over beach time, this is one of the better ways to see the Maldives beyond your resort.