DUNE Theia · Maldives · 8 Days / 7 Nights
This 8-day journey through the central atolls of the Maldives explores renowned pelagic hotspots. The itinerary focuses on channel dives in areas like Vaavu and Ari Atoll, offering encounters with whale sharks, manta rays, and various shark species. The trip balances thrilling dives with relaxing topside activities, including a beach barbecue on a desert island and visits to local islands. A special "Dune Touch Event" encourages cultural exchange among guests.
Hulhumale
Guests are collected from Malé International Airport and transferred to the vessel at Hulhumalé marina. Following a welcome briefing and refreshments, dinner is served, and the first night is spent on board.
North Malé Atoll / Vaavu Atoll
The journey begins with dives across North Malé Atoll, investigating its expansive reef systems. From May through November, sightings of manta rays are possible. The area teems with vibrant corals, diverse reef fish, and fascinating macro organisms. As the day ends, the vessel sets sail for Vaavu Atoll, where an exhilarating night dive awaits. Divers observe a spectacular feeding event involving nurse sharks, stingrays, and jacks.
Good to know: night dive with nurse sharks, stingrays, and jacks
Vaavu Atoll / South Ari Atoll
Diving in Vaavu Atoll reveals small caves, large overhangs, and coral-covered drop-offs. The region is home to titan triggerfish, grey reef sharks, and white tip reef sharks. The journey then continues west to South Ari Atoll, known for its beautiful pinnacles and opportunities to see larger marine life.
South Ari Atoll
This day is dedicated to searching for whale sharks within the marine protected areas of South Ari Atoll, providing a chance to snorkel or dive with these gentle giants. The area's thilas and wrecks also host grey reef sharks, napoleon wrasse, and moray eels. Before dinner, the group will visit a nearby local island.
Good to know: snorkel or scuba with whale sharks|local island visit
South Ari Atoll / North Ari Atoll
After one final chance to spot whale sharks in the southern waters, the boat steams north to North Ari Atoll. Its broad channels and deeper areas are ideal for grey reef sharks, white-tip reef sharks, and various large pelagics. The day concludes with a delicious BBQ dinner, cooked by the crew, on a private, uninhabited island.
Good to know: barbecue dinner on a desert island
North Ari Atoll
Diving in North Ari Atoll features multiple manta cleaning stations, impressive thilas, and a wreck teeming with marine life. Divers may also encounter eagle rays, hawksbill turtles, and schools of blue-stripe snapper. The day culminates in a manta night dive, offering a close-up view of these creatures feeding.
Good to know: manta night dive
North Ari Atoll / North Malé Atoll
A final dive is enjoyed in North Ari Atoll before the vessel heads back toward North Malé Atoll. The last dives explore stunning long reefs and small caves, with a focus on macro life like frogfish and nudibranchs, as well as bannerfish and oriental sweetlips. The boat returns to Hulhumalé marina for the last night.
Hulhumale
The trip concludes after breakfast on board. The crew will coordinate airport transfers according to guests' flight schedules. Assistance is also available for arranging activities for those with late departures.