Hanifaru Bay Dive Site — Maldives
About Hanifaru Bay
UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in Baa Atoll, world-famous for mass manta ray feeding aggregations during the southwest monsoon (June–November). Up to 200 reef mantas circle in formation, feeding on dense plankton concentrated by tidal currents in this natural amphitheatre. Whale sharks also visit regularly, making this one of the most spectacular marine wildlife spectacles on the planet.
Site Information
- Depth: 3–5 m
- Difficulty: intermediate
- Site type: Reef
- Current: Hanifaru Bay is primarily a snorkeling site; scuba diving is prohibited. The unique "keyhole" shape of the bay creates funnel currents that concentrate plankton blooms. While in the bay, visitors typically drift with the feeding mantas. General Maldives diving may involve medium to strong currents, requiring negative entry and immediate descent.
- Best time: May - November
- Region: Maldives
Highlights
- Manta Rays
- Whale Sharks
Marine Life at Hanifaru Bay
Liveaboards visiting Maldives
- Emperor Leo — 4.8/5, from €243/day
- Emperor Voyager — 4.8/5, from €228/day
- Maldives Blue Force 3 — 4.8/5, from €211/day