Maldives
Most turtle snorkeling tours take you by boat to shallow reefs or lagoons where green and hawksbill turtles regularly feed. Expect to spend 30-50 minutes in the water per site, drifting above turtles munching on seagrass while reef fish swirl around. The experience is calm rather than adrenaline-filled – you're basically watching turtles live their lives from a few meters away. Groups are usually 8-15 people; guides point out turtles and occasionally free-dive to shoo them away from boats. Water is warm (27-30°C), visibility typically 10-20m, but can drop after rain or with strong currents.
The best time is December to April when seas are calmer and visibility is more reliable. June to November brings cheaper rates but rougher boat rides and higher chance of canceled trips due to monsoon swells. Expect to pay around $45-85 per person for a half-day trip including gear and pickup; full-day versions with two sites and lunch run $90-130. Private or luxury resort excursions can easily hit $200+.
Tip: choose smaller-group boat trips over the big resort flotillas – you'll get more time with the turtles and less kicking in the face from other snorkelers. Skip the 'guaranteed turtle' marketing; nothing is guaranteed, and operators that claim it often chase stressed animals. Bring your own mask and snorkel if you have them – rental gear is usually average at best.