Horizon III · Maldives · 8D/7N
This route offers the ultimate classic liveaboard experience in the Maldives. Aboard Horizon 3, you’ll explore a rich diversity of marine life shaped by varying habitats and water depths. Each dive brings new surprises, with the chance to encounter rare large fish seldom seen in everyday life.
Male
Upon arrival at Velana International Airport, guests are transferred to the vessel. After boarding and settling in, there will be a welcome reception and a comprehensive boat briefing. The first evening is spent moored near Male, allowing for relaxation and preparation for the adventure.
Good to know: Check-in is typically in the late morning or early afternoon.
North Male & Rasdhoo Atolls
The day begins with a check dive in North Male Atoll to ensure all divers are comfortable and equipment is functioning correctly. The boat then crosses to Rasdhoo Atoll, where the day's diving focuses on sites like Rasdhoo Manta Point, offering the chance to see manta rays at cleaning stations.
Dive sites: Kurumba Housereef, Rasdhoo Manta Point
Good to know: The journey between atolls offers scenic views of the Maldivian islands.
Ari Atoll
Today is dedicated to the prolific dive sites of North Ari Atoll. Up to three dives are planned at famous locations like Maaya Thila and Fish Head, renowned for their abundant marine life, including grey reef sharks, whitetip sharks, and dense schools of fish.
Dive sites: Maaya Thila, Fish Head, Bathalaa Maaga Kan Thila
Good to know: This area is known for its high concentration of pelagic species.
South Ari Atoll
The vessel heads south within Ari Atoll in search of the ocean's largest fish. Dives are planned around the Maamigili protected area, a known habitat for whale sharks. Other possible sites include Kuda Rah Thila or the Machafushi Wreck, adding variety to the day's underwater exploration.
Dive sites: Maamigili, Kuda Rah Thila, Machafushi Wreck
Good to know: Whale shark sightings are seasonal and depend on oceanic conditions.
Vaavu Atoll
After crossing to Vaavu Atoll, the focus shifts to thrilling channel dives like Myiaru Kandu, where sharks and other pelagics patrol the currents. The day is capped off with a spectacular night dive at Alimatha Jetty, a world-famous site where divers are surrounded by dozens of nurse sharks and stingrays.
Dive sites: Miyaru Kandu, Alimatha Jetty
Good to know: The Alimatha Jetty night dive is consistently rated as a trip highlight.
South Male Atoll
The itinerary moves north to South Male Atoll, home to celebrated sites like Kandooma Thila. This pinnacle is known for exhilarating drift dives with large schools of eagle rays and sharks. A dive on the Kudagiri Wreck may also be included, offering a calmer experience with great macro photo opportunities.
Dive sites: Kandooma Thila, Kudagiri Wreck
Good to know: Currents in this atoll can be strong, providing exciting drift diving.
North Male Atoll
The final day of diving consists of two morning dives back in North Male Atoll. These may take place at a site like Fish Factory, known for hosting stingrays and guitar sharks. Afterwards, the boat returns to the Hulhumale area, where guests can wash their gear and enjoy a final evening.
Dive sites: Shark Tank (Fish Factory)
Good to know: Two dives are scheduled to allow for sufficient off-gassing time before flying the next day.
Male
Following a final breakfast on board, guests will say their goodbyes to the crew and fellow travelers. Transfers are provided back to Velana International Airport for onward journeys.
Good to know: Disembarkation usually occurs in the morning.