Horizon III · Maldives · 14D/13N
This immersive journey through the Maldivian seascape unfolds with an exhilarating rhythm, promising up to 35 dives spanning the Central and Northern Atolls, including a visit to Hanifaru Bay. Your underwater exploration commences with captivating drift dives through vibrant channels, where flourishing reef walls hum with activity. Expect frequent encounters with majestic manta rays gliding effortlessly alongside you, while graceful whale sharks make unforgettable appearances. The routine includes dawn dives beneath an awakening ocean, exhilarating afternoon excursions, and captivating night dives illuminating a different cast of nocturnal residents. Each day brings new underwater topography to marvel at—from dramatic pinnacles rising from the depths to gentle slopes teeming with diverse marine life. This carefully crafted route ensures a constant parade of large pelagics, alongside a kaleidoscope of smaller reef inhabitants, making every descent a fresh discovery.
North Male Atoll
Upon arrival at Velana International Airport (MLE), you will be greeted and transferred to the vessel. After settling into your cabin, the day includes a welcome briefing covering the boat's safety features and the exciting dive plan ahead. The evening is spent relaxing as the boat anchors near Male.
North Male Atoll / Rasdhoo Atoll
The adventure begins with a check dive to fine-tune buoyancy and equipment at a calm site in North Male Atoll. Afterwards, the boat cruises towards Rasdhoo Atoll, offering a second dive in the afternoon to get acquainted with the region's marine environment.
Dive sites: Kurumba Housereef
Rasdhoo Atoll / North Ari Atoll
The day is dedicated to Rasdhoo's famous sites, where divers search for manta rays at cleaning stations. After the morning dives, the journey continues to North Ari Atoll, exploring some of its celebrated 'thilas' (submerged pinnacles).
Dive sites: Rasdhoo Manta Point, Bathalaa Maaga Kan Thila
Good to know: An optional early morning dive may be offered to search for hammerhead sharks, depending on conditions.
North Ari Atoll
Today's dives focus on the legendary pinnacles of Ari Atoll, known for dense schools of fish and active shark populations. The day will conclude with a thrilling night dive at Maaya Thila, a site famous for its nocturnal hunting activity where white-tip reef sharks are commonly seen.
Dive sites: Fish Head, Kuda Haa, Maaya Thila
South Ari Atoll
The boat moves south to explore more of Ari Atoll's dynamic underwater topography. Dives will include dramatic pinnacles like Kuda Rah Thila, known for its soft corals and swim-throughs. The day's schedule may also feature an exploration of a nearby wreck, such as the Machafushi Wreck.
Dive sites: Kuda Rah Thila, Machafushi Wreck, 7th Heaven
South Ari Atoll
Dives are planned within the Maamigili Marine Protected Area, a world-renowned aggregation site for juvenile whale sharks. While sightings are not guaranteed, this area provides the best opportunity to encounter the largest fish in the sea. The remaining dives will explore nearby rock formations and reefs.
Dive sites: Maamigili, Mahi Rock, Camel Rock
Ari Atoll / Baa Atoll
After a final morning dive in Ari Atoll, the vessel begins its significant crossing north towards Baa Atoll. The afternoon is for relaxing, enjoying the ocean scenery, and preparing for the unique diving experiences that await in the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.
Baa Atoll
The first full day in Baa Atoll focuses on its famous underwater pinnacles, known for vibrant coral life and schooling fish. Dives at sites like Dhonfanu Thila showcase mesmerizing sea fans and whip corals, with regular manta ray sightings.
Dive sites: Dhonfanu Thila, Dhigali Haa
Good to know: During the southwest monsoon (typically May-Nov), a snorkeling-only excursion to Hanifaru Bay may be offered to witness mass feedings of Manta Rays and Whale Sharks, replacing some dives.
Baa Atoll
Today's exploration continues through Baa Atoll's rich waters, seeking out more manta ray cleaning stations. The itinerary includes dives like Maavaru Kandu, where large overhangs are decorated with an array of colorful soft corals.
Dive sites: Maavaru Kandu
Baa Atoll
Enjoy the last full day of diving within the northern atolls, revisiting a favorite site or exploring new ones based on conditions. The dives offer a final opportunity to appreciate the unique biodiversity of the Baa Atoll region before beginning the journey south.
Good to know: Dive sites for this day will be chosen by the cruise director based on current conditions and recent sightings.
North Male Atoll
The boat undertakes the long crossing back towards the Central Atolls. After a morning of travel, an afternoon dive is planned upon arrival in North Male Atoll, transitioning back to the classic channel and reef diving of this area.
Vaavu Atoll
A journey south to Vaavu Atoll brings some of the trip's most exhilarating dives. The day includes a channel dive at Miyaru Kandu, renowned for sharks, followed by the iconic night dive at Alimatha Jetty, where dozens of nurse sharks congregate.
Dive sites: Miyaru Kandu, Alimatha Jetty
South Male Atoll / North Male Atoll
The last day of diving features sites close to the departure point. Explore a popular wreck like the Kudagiri Wreck and a thrilling channel dive at Kandooma Thila, known for its strong currents and pelagic fish, before the boat anchors for the final night.
Dive sites: Kandooma Thila, Kudagiri Wreck
Good to know: The boat will return to the anchorage near Hulhumale in the evening.
Male
After a final breakfast on board, it is time to say goodbye to the crew and fellow divers. You will be transferred to Velana International Airport (MLE) for your onward flight.