Joanna James
When it comes to the best places for scuba diving in the world, the Maldives is right up there as one of the very best. Of course, the North and South Malé Atolls are two places you definitely need to head to for this activity, and here are some of their top dive sites to explore.
As one of the first-ever dive sites to be discovered in the Maldives, the Banana Reef can be considered somewhat of an ‘OG’ of the local diving scene! Located in North Malé Atoll, this protected marine area, which has earned a reputation as a must-visit spot for divers of all levels, is thriving with marine life and striking underwater landscapes. Expect to see dramatic rock formations, caves, and overhangs teeming with marine life, including predatory fish like barracuda, sharks, and trevally. Meanwhile, schools of oriental sweetlips, humpback red snapper and yellow snapper add a splash of colour to the scene.
At Manta Point (also called Lankan Manta Point) in the North Malé Atoll, you can watch in awe as graceful manta rays gather at cleaning stations; suffice it to say that it’s a chance to witness an enthralling display of marine life at its finest. Keep in mind that the best time to visit is usually between May and November because this is the prime period to spot these majestic denizens of the deep. But wait, there’s more because mantas aren’t the only stars here! You might also spot whitetip reef sharks, eagle rays, humphead wrasse, and even the occasional hawksbill turtle. Tip: When looking for the best Maldives all-inclusive resorts for diving escapades in the North Malé Atoll, consider options like OBLU Xperience Ailafushi; such properties offer access to a PADI-certified dive school with different courses for beginners and pros alike with the needed training and certification.
The allure of diving here is not only to see coral reefs but also to explore intriguing wrecks. One of the most famous is the Maldives Victory Wreck, an 83-metre cargo ship that sank in 1981. Now sitting at a depth of around 37 metres, it has been naturally transformed into an artificial reef which has become a thriving marine habitat. As you descend, you have a chance to see schools of yellowback fusiliers as well as batfish, groupers, and even turtles. Keep an eye out for lionfish, trevallies, and the occasional pufferfish lurking around. Pro tip: Start and finish your dive at the main mast, and as you ascend, take a moment to admire the full view of this stunning wreck for a sight you won’t forget!
If you happen to be an experienced diver who is also looking for an adrenaline rush, then Kandooma Thila in South Malé Atoll is calling your name! Also known as Cocoa Thila, this site is famous for its breathtaking scenery and diverse marine life. The west and north sides are particularly stunning, with the top of the thila sitting at about 16 metres. Strong outgoing currents bring in grey reef sharks, barracuda, and whitetip sharks, creating an exhilarating dive experience. At Jack Corner, a hotspot for marine life, you might even encounter a swirling mass of jacks and trevallies. Don’t stop there, however, because below the corner, a hidden cave shelters snapper and bigeye trevally.
Lhohi Faru Thila is another advanced-level dive site in South Malé Atoll that promises an unforgettable experience for those ready to take the plunge. With visibility reaching up to 18 metres and depths of 22 metres, this spot offers stunning coral formations and exciting marine encounters. Nurse sharks often hide under coral blocks while whitetip reef sharks and stingrays rest on the sandy seabed. Fusiliers, barracuda, lionfish, and even Napoleon wrasse call this thila home. Of course, there’s always a chance to see more elusive species, so keep your eyes peeled … you never know what might glide past!
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 passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
