This is one of the best diving destinations in the world, which is why today we are writing about the different dive sites in the area and discussing the best diving in the Maldives. At Lluis Masuet Expeditions, we have a tailor-made itinerary that allows us to explore the best atolls, from the heart of the archipelago to the deep south.
A route where we will enjoy everything the Maldives has to offer. We will dive at all the most breathtaking and vibrant spots, but first, it is worth exploring the geography of this incredible place to better understand its society and customs.
Best Dive Sites in the Maldives
Now it’s time to talk about the best dive sites in the Maldives. Here’s a small selection from the many incredible spots these islands have to offer.
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Fish Head (Ari Atoll)
This thila ranges from 8 to approximately 35 meters deep. The dive consists of exploring around the thila, where we will find several crevices, gorgonians, small caves, and balconies that harbor diverse marine life.
Depending on the depth, we will encounter different marine species. In the deeper areas or balconies, we can spot grey reef sharks and whitetip reef sharks patrolling the area, along with tunas hunting their prey. As we ascend, we start to see crevices filled with reef life: five-lined snappers, schools of fusiliers and bannerfish, moray eels, and turtles resting in them. What makes this thila special is that the top area serves as a feeding zone for hawksbill turtles.
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Moofushi Rock (Ari Atoll)
Moofushi Rock is one of the stations where manta rays stop during their migration to be cleaned by small fish known as cleaner fish. This dive begins at the top of the reef, leading to the station after a short swim.
On the lower section, you can often see many whitetip reef sharks and occasionally grey reef sharks resting nearby. It’s always important to maintain a respectful distance to ensure the mantas feel as comfortable as possible.
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Alimathaa Jetty (Vaavu Atoll)
Located in Vaavu Atoll, right at the jetty of Alimathaa resort, you can find what is possibly the world’s most famous place to dive with nurse sharks. In the afternoon, they can often be seen resting on the seabed, as they are generally a very calm species.
You may also spot stingrays, eagle rays, and one of the best locations to observe the elusive blacktip reef sharks up close.
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Miyaru Kandu (Vaavu Atoll)
This dive is slightly deeper, around 30 meters. Once at depth, it offers a breathtaking view of the blue, where grey reef sharks, whitetip sharks, and eagle rays parade by in an incredible spectacle. These dives often require the use of a “reef hook” to anchor yourself and enjoy the view without drifting away.
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Whale Shark Search (South Ari Atoll)
In the southern part of Ari Atoll, one of the few places in the world where you can see whale sharks year-round, divers can almost daily encounter these gentle giants, a species currently classified as endangered. The ones typically found here are juveniles (under 8 meters long), as they leave the area upon reaching maturity.
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Tiger Zoo (Fuvahmulah)
Once in the waters of Fuvahmulah, we kneel on the seabed and start to see tiger sharks slowly emerging from the depths.
Massive tiger sharks, often pregnant females, pass just centimeters away from us as they search for food. The feeling of being at shallow depth surrounded by these majestic sharks makes this dive one of the highlights of the trip. More information about Fuvahmulah can be found in our article.
Liveaboard Diving Agency in the Maldives
Contact us without obligation and discover our liveaboard diving trips to explore the Maldives’ waters. We will be happy to assist you and provide all the information you need. Click here to check out some of our trips.
