Shock on honeymoon: Spanish doctor loses leg after shark attack in the Maldives

What was meant to be a paradise holiday ends in tragedy – raising questions about the safety of tourist excursions.

Spain Expat Press Editorial Team

by Marlon Gallego Bosbach

The honeymoon was meant to mark the beginning of a new chapter in life. Instead, a young doctor from Alicante is now fighting for his life after a dramatic shark attack in the Maldives. The incident occurred on 11 April 2026 near the island of Kooddoo and is already considered one of the most serious shark attacks in the island nation’s recent history.

Attack during a guided tour

The 31-year-old gynaecologist was on an organised water excursion with his wife when the tragedy occurred. The group had entered the sea in an area known to be a regular habitat for sharks. Just moments later, the attack took place.

Eyewitnesses report a sudden and violent attack. The shark bit the man on the leg, causing such severe injuries that large parts of the limb were destroyed.

Dramatic rescue and amputation

After the attack, the injured man was initially taken to a local hospital. Due to severe blood loss and life-threatening injuries, an emergency operation was carried out. The leg could not be saved and had to be amputated.

He was subsequently airlifted by helicopter to the capital, Malé, where he is currently being treated in intensive care. His condition is still described as critical.

Why did the attack happen?

The incident took place in close proximity to a fish processing facility – a factor that experts believe may have played a decisive role. Such facilities regularly attract sharks due to fish waste.

According to reports, the facility had recently stopped discharging waste into the sea. This may have caused the animals to behave more aggressively in their search for food. It is also believed that several people entering the water at the same time may have triggered a hunting response.

Possible attackers include both spinner sharks and bull sharks – the latter are known for their particularly aggressive behaviour.

Serious allegations against the tour operator

The victim’s wife has now initiated legal proceedings. She accuses the tour operator of failing to adequately protect participants and of underestimating the risks involved.

The focus is now on whether excursions into known shark habitats should be permitted at all without stricter safety measures.

Tourism paradise with a darker side

The Maldives are considered one of the world’s most popular travel destinations – especially for honeymoons and shark diving experiences. However, the current case shows that even seemingly controlled activities can carry significant risks.

Shark attacks are extremely rare, but when they do occur, they often have dramatic consequences.

Conclusion

In a single moment, a honeymoon was turned into a nightmare. The case of the Spanish doctor not only raises questions about the safety of tourism activities, but also shows how unpredictable nature can remain – even in the most beautiful regions of the world.