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Cetaceans observed in Maldivian waters were recorded during the period August 1990 to June 2002, from both vessels-of-opportunity anddedicated cetacean-watching cruises. A total of 1,829 cetacean sightings were recorded during 535 days at sea (equivalent to 261standardised days). There were 83 multispecies sightings, plus a further 58 sightings without associated effort data and 129 strandings wererecorded by the author and others, making a total of 2,108 cetacean records. In all, 20 different species were positively identified fromsightings. Spinner dolphins were the most abundant species seen, accounting for 35% of sightings and 53% of numbers. This speciesshowed a clear diurnal pattern of behaviour, with many schools entering the atolls in the early morning, and leaving in the late afternoon.Spinner dolphins regularly occurred with pantropical spotted dolphins and both species associated with yellowfin tuna. Bryde's whales alsoassociated with yellowfin tuna and appeared to be most common in Maldivian waters during El Ni¤o Southern Oscillation events. Bluewhales were only recorded during November to April. Dwarf sperm whales were especially difficult to locate in rough weather but relativelycommon, making up one sixth of all sightings in flat-calm conditions. Melon-headed whales were particularly common in the south of theMaldives, but rare in the centre and north. Other species recorded were humpback whale, sperm whale, rough-toothed dolphin, Risso'sdolphin, bottlenose dolphin, striped dolphin, Fraser's dolphin, pygmy killer whale, false killer whale, killer whale, short-finned pilot whale,Blainville's beaked whale, Longman's beaked whale and Cuvier's beaked whale.