Best of Central Maldives: Ari - Vaavu- Male Atolls

Amba · Maldives · 11D/10N

Duration
11D/10N
Embarkation
Male
Disembarkation
Male
Dives
23

About this route

Your Maldives diving adventure plunges you into the vibrant ecosystems of the Central Atolls, offering a total of 23 exhilarating dives across this tropical paradise. Each day unfolds with opportunities to explore diverse underwater landscapes, from thrilling drift dives along channel currents to close encounters with the abundant pelagic life of the region. Expect to glide over pristine reefs teeming with colorful schooling fish, marvel at majestic manta rays as they feed, and witness sleek reef sharks patrolling their territories. The itinerary focuses on discovering the extraordinary biodiversity beneath the surface, visiting various sites within the atolls to maximize your chances of spotting exotic critters and larger ocean dwellers. You'll navigate through stunning coral gardens, encounter reef walls adorned with intricate marine life, and experience the rhythmic pulse of the ocean in its most spectacular form, culminating in an immersive journey through these remarkable Maldivian waters.

Day-by-day plan

  1. Day 1: Embarkation in Malé

    Malé

    Guests are transferred to the vessel for boarding. After settling into the cabins, a comprehensive boat briefing and safety orientation will be provided, followed by equipment setup.

  2. Day 2: Diving South Malé & Crossing to Vaavu

    South Malé Atoll

    The diving adventure begins with checkout dives in the channels of South Malé Atoll. Afterwards, the boat will begin its crossing towards Vaavu Atoll.

  3. Day 3: Vaavu Atoll Channel Dives

    Vaavu Atoll

    Diving in Vaavu Atoll focuses on its famous channels, where incoming currents attract grey reef sharks, eagle rays, and schools of jacks. The day may end with a dramatic night dive known for its high concentration of nurse sharks and stingrays.

  4. Day 4: Exploring South Ari Atoll

    South Ari Atoll

    The vessel sails to South Ari Atoll, a world-renowned destination for spotting whale sharks. The day's dives will be conducted along the outer reefs where these gentle giants often feed.

  5. Day 5: Manta Encounters in South Ari

    South Ari Atoll

    Today's dives target known manta ray cleaning stations within South Ari Atoll. Divers can observe these graceful animals as they hover over coral blocks to be cleaned by smaller fish.

  6. Day 6: Pinnacles of Ari Atoll

    Ari Atoll

    The journey continues through Ari Atoll, focusing on submerged pinnacles, or 'thilas'. These sites are typically covered in colourful soft corals and home to diverse schools of reef fish.

  7. Day 7: Classic Dives of Central Ari

    Ari Atoll

    Diving continues on some of the most popular and vibrant sites in the heart of Ari Atoll. These reefs are known for their healthy corals and abundance of marine life, both large and small.

  8. Day 8: North Ari Atoll Exploration

    North Ari Atoll

    The boat moves into the northern part of Ari Atoll to explore more acclaimed dive sites. This area is known for an incredible density of fish and offers more chances to see sharks and rays.

  9. Day 9: Island Exploration & Return Journey

    North Ari / Rasdhoo Atoll

    The day may include an opportunity to visit a local island or relax on a secluded sandbank between dives. The vessel begins its cruise back east towards North Malé Atoll.

    Good to know: An optional stop at Rasdhoo Atoll may be included, weather permitting.

  10. Day 10: Final Dives near Malé

    North Malé Atoll

    The last dives of the trip are conducted in North Malé Atoll, offering a final opportunity to enjoy the Maldivian underwater world. After the dives, the boat will anchor near the port.

  11. Day 11: Disembarkation

    Malé

    Following the final breakfast on board, guests say their goodbyes to the crew. Transfers will be arranged to the international airport for departure.

Upcoming departures

No departures scheduled for this route right now.

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