Joanna James
Crystal clear waters, striking corals, and a host of incredible diving sites—the archipelagic nation of Maldives is nothing short of a divers' mecca. Descend deep into the turquoise waters and discover a treasure trove of spellbinding natural wonders that awaits, drawing tourists in droves.
Stretched on the reef of Hanifaru Island, the plankton-rich waters of Hanifaru Bay attract large schools of manta rays and whale sharks, making the bay one of the popular diving sites in the Maldives to witness these fascinating creatures of the sea. However, scuba diving in Hanifaru Bay is now prohibited by the authorities as it is declared a biosphere reserve. Yet, the diving site has seen no decline in visitors, as you can still snorkel amongst hundreds of fish, which makes for an experience just as exciting.
An epitome of Maldivian dive sites, Reethi Thila, is among the most visited dive sites in the island nation. A wide range of tropical fish call the cracks and overhangs of this submerged pinnacle home. The huge density and diversity of marine life is mind-blowing, and Reethi Thila never fails to leave its many visitors amazed. The impressive dive site presents favourable diving conditions all year round, but as with most dive sites in the Maldives, the best season is said to be during the Northeast monsoon (dry season), which is from January to April.
The spectacular underwater pinnacle of Fenfushi Giri is well-known among tourists to the Maldives for its slew of overhangs that play host to an impressive variety of fishes. Divers can see Napoleon wrasse and stingrays as you begin to descend from shallow waters, and jacks, tuna, and dolphins can also be seen when going further deep into the ocean. Whether you are vacationing in this idyllic archipelagic nation or here for a Maldives resorts honeymoon, Fenfushi Giri in Raa Atoll has a host of accommodation options that are ideal for avid divers, such as Adaaran Select Meedhupparu.
Dhigala Haa diving site in Baa Atoll is home to a protected marine sanctuary which is quite famous for its dense shark population, especially for spotting grey reef sharks who could hardly be seen in the waters surrounding the Maldives. The host of small caves and overhangs of the reef play host to schools of small fish, while snappers, jacks, barracudas and several other species of marine life could also be seen wandering the waters.
The most visited dive site in Lhaviyani Atoll, Kuredu Express is named after the strong currents created by its sandy channel, making it advisable only to be attempted by sea-savvy divers. The reef has a number of great spots to get a break from diving and hang out to admire the fascinating marine life. Eagle Rays, Tuna, Grey Reef Sharks, Stingrays and Barracuda are some of the most common species of fish present in these waters.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a pas...
