An ethereal world full of colourful coral and fascinating fish awaits below the waves in the Maldives and here’s what you need to know about diving in this destination.
Where to Stay
Stay at private island resorts that are not only near popular dive sites but offer access to a dive centre with the needed PADI certified training and courses. Options include premium all-inclusive properties like Heritance Aarah where you can also enjoy other water sports like snorkelling to discover the many marine wonders.
Coral & Marine Life
When it comes to adventures in the Maldives, attractions can also be found in the Indian Ocean home to diverse coral and marine life. Destinations like the Raa Atoll that feature submerged islands or “thilas” are perfect for diving; you will encounter hard and soft corals along with Napoleon wrasses, turtles, stonefish, bearded scorpionfish, angelfish, batfish and more.
Special Encounters
One of the key allures of diving in Maldives is the chance to encounter some of the ocean’s larger denizens in places like the Raa Atoll; this includes majestic manta rays and eagle rays, stealthy reef sharks and huge yet harmless whale sharks! Some of these experiences are on offer at certain periods so always check with the resort.
Best Time to Go
The Maldives is a great destination for diving all year round, though the best period is generally the dry season from November to April when the weather is at its clearest and the seas calm. You can still go diving in the wet season and, in certain atolls, it’s also the optimal time to encounter mantas rays and whale sharks.
