Amba · Maldives · 12D/11N
Embark on an underwater journey through the aquatic wonders of the Maldives, navigating distinct regions for a comprehensive diving spectacle. Your adventure unfolds across the Central and Southern Atolls, offering a staggering 28 dives over the course of your time here. Each day presents an immersion into vibrant coral formations and diverse marine ecosystems. You'll glide along dramatic walls and explore intricate pinnacles, encountering abundant pelagic life that thrives in these currents. Expect exhilarating drift dives through channels, where powerful currents carry you past schools of fish. The daily rhythm is meticulously planned to maximize your encounters with a kaleidoscope of reef fish, graceful manta rays, and majestic whale sharks, making each descent a unique exploration.
Malé Atoll
Upon arrival at Velana International Airport (MLE), you will be transferred to the vessel for boarding. After settling in, the crew will provide a comprehensive welcome briefing covering the boat's layout, safety protocols, and the itinerary ahead.
Good to know: No diving is scheduled on the day of arrival.
South Malé Atoll
The journey begins with the first dives in South Malé Atoll. These initial immersions serve as an excellent opportunity to check your equipment and acclimatize to the local diving conditions and currents.
Vaavu Atoll
The vessel travels south to Vaavu Atoll, an area celebrated for its exciting channel dives. The strong currents in these passages attract an abundance of pelagic life, including various shark species and eagle rays.
Vaavu Atoll
Exploration of Vaavu Atoll continues, often culminating in a famous night dive with resident nurse sharks. Daytime dives will further investigate the atoll's channels and vibrant reef systems.
Good to know: Night dive is subject to weather conditions and local regulations.
Meemu Atoll
The itinerary proceeds to the more remote Meemu Atoll, known for its pristine and less-dived channels. These sites offer a high probability of encounters with grey reef sharks, eagle rays, and occasionally manta rays.
Meemu Atoll
A second day is spent exploring the channels of Meemu Atoll. The underwater landscape features overhangs and walls adorned with colorful soft corals, providing diverse habitats for a wide array of marine life.
South Ari Atoll
After crossing to South Ari Atoll, the primary objective is to search for whale sharks. Dives are concentrated along the southern outer reef, a known feeding area for these magnificent creatures.
Good to know: Whale shark sightings are common but not guaranteed.
South Ari Atoll
The focus today shifts to finding manta rays at their cleaning stations. Divers will visit specific sites where these graceful animals gather to have parasites removed by smaller reef fish.
Central Ari Atoll
Progressing north through the atoll, dives will target classic Maldivian 'thilas' and 'giris'. These submerged pinnacles are hubs of activity, covered in coral and swarming with schools of reef fish.
North Ari Atoll
The northern part of Ari Atoll offers opportunities to encounter hammerhead sharks and explore spectacular reef formations. Dives are planned at sites known for their beautiful hard coral gardens and potential for big fish sightings.
Malé Atoll
The vessel navigates back towards the Malé area for the final dives of the trip. These last underwater explorations offer a final chance to enjoy the rich marine biodiversity of the central atolls.
Good to know: Fewer dives are planned to allow for sufficient off-gassing time before flying.
Malé
After a final breakfast on board, guests will disembark the vessel. The crew will assist with transfers to the airport for your departure.
Good to know: It is recommended to allow a 24-hour surface interval before flying.