Emperor Serenity · Maldives · 8 Days / 7 Nights
This itinerary focuses on the new moon phase, which generates stronger tidal currents, drawing large numbers of plankton-feeding manta rays into Hanifaru Bay between July and October. The journey begins in Male, exploring the northern atolls of Lhaviyani and Baa, including renowned dive sites like Kuredu Express and Kuredu Caves. Guests will have opportunities to observe manta rays feeding and cleaning, as well as encounters with turtles and various reef sharks. While diving is not permitted in Hanifaru Bay, snorkeling with mantas is a key highlight.
Guests arrive at Male Airport and are met by a representative for transfer to the vessel. Check-in is scheduled for the afternoon, where guests will settle into their cabins and receive a welcome briefing.
Today focuses on the Baa Atoll, renowned for Hanifaru Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage site. During the new moon phase, this area is known for massive aggregations of manta rays feeding on plankton. While diving is not permitted in the bay itself, guests can enjoy snorkeling with these majestic creatures. Other sites in the atoll, such as Nelivaru Thila and Dhiggu Thila, often feature diverse reef ecosystems and potential pelagic encounters.
Dive sites: Hanifaru Bay, Nelivaru Thila, Dhiggu Thila
The journey continues to North Male Atoll, an area celebrated for its beautiful pinnacles and vibrant reef structures. Dive sites here, including Lankan Manta Point, are known as active manta cleaning stations, offering excellent opportunities to observe manta rays in shallower waters. The diverse topography often attracts a variety of reef fish and pelagic species.
Dive sites: Lankan Manta Point
Today explores the Lhaviyani Atoll, featuring dive sites known for strong currents and unique formations. Locations such as Kuredu Express and Kuredu Caves are famous for their exhilarating drift dives and dramatic underwater landscapes. These sites often attract various shark species, including grey reef sharks, and offer opportunities to explore intriguing cave systems.
Dive sites: Fushivaru Thila, Kuredu Express, Kuredu Caves
Return to Baa Atoll for more opportunities to encounter manta rays and explore its rich dive sites. The currents during the new moon continue to draw large numbers of mantas, providing chances for memorable snorkeling experiences in Hanifaru Bay or observing them at cleaning stations. The atoll's diverse reefs also host a variety of other marine life, including turtles and reef sharks.
Dive sites: Hanifaru Bay, Nelivaru Thila, Dhiggu Thila
Explore more of the North Male Atoll today, focusing on its renowned cleaning stations and vibrant reef systems. Dive sites in this region are excellent for observing manta rays and other pelagic species attracted by the rich currents. The varied underwater topography, including pinnacles and walls, supports a healthy ecosystem with numerous reef sharks and turtles.
Dive sites: Lankan Manta Point
Concluding dives in the Lhaviyani Atoll, revisiting some of its thrilling channels and cave systems. Experiences may include further drift dives along Kuredu Express or exploring the unique formations of Kuredu Caves. These sites offer a final chance to encounter the abundant marine life, including various shark species and large schools of fish, before returning to Male.
Dive sites: Fushivaru Thila, Kuredu Express, Kuredu Caves
Guests disembark the vessel in Male in the morning. Transfers to the airport or onward arrangements will be facilitated for guests concluding their holiday.