Pearl 111 · Maldives · 8D7N
Embark on a classic diving adventure through the Maldives' famed Central Atolls aboard a charming wooden schooner. This itinerary focuses on the iconic dive sites of Ari Atoll, home to some of the world's most reliable encounters with majestic whale sharks and graceful manta rays. The diving consists of thrilling channel drifts, vibrant thilas teeming with fish, and captivating night dives. Expect to see an abundance of marine life, from various shark species like nurse and reef sharks to playful dolphins. The trip is complemented by relaxing onboard activities, including kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and a memorable beach barbecue under the stars.
Maamingili, South Ari Atoll
Arrive at Maamingili Airport and transfer to the vessel for boarding. After settling into your cabin, the crew provides a welcome cocktail and a comprehensive boat and safety briefing. The afternoon is for relaxing and preparing your dive gear as the boat prepares to set sail into the heart of the Ari Atoll.
Good to know: Guest boarding | Welcome briefing | Cabin check-in
South Ari Atoll
The first full day of diving is dedicated to the southern end of Ari Atoll, an area globally renowned for its resident whale shark population. Dives are focused around the outer reefs, such as Maamigili Beyru, offering the best chance to snorkel or dive with these gentle giants. The day may also include a dive at a 'thila' like Kudarah Thila, a vibrant pinnacle buzzing with schooling fish and reef predators.
Dive sites: Maamigili Beyru, Kudarah Thila
South Ari Atoll
Diving continues in South Ari, exploring celebrated sites known for both large and small marine life. Dives could take place at Dhigurah Arches, a site known for its beautiful coral formations. The search for manta rays continues at cleaning stations like Rangali Madivaru, where these graceful creatures gather to be cleaned by wrasse.
Dive sites: Dhigurah Arches, Rangali Madivaru
North Ari Atoll
The vessel travels north to the legendary dive sites of North Ari Atoll. The plan includes world-famous sites like Fish Head (Mushimasmingili Thila), a pinnacle protected as a marine park, known for its resident grey reef sharks. The day often culminates in a thrilling night dive at Maaya Thila, where whitetip reef sharks, morays, and stingrays are found in high numbers.
Dive sites: Fish Head (Mushimasmingili Thila), Maaya Thila
North Ari Atoll & Rasdhoo Atoll
Exploration continues in North Ari with dives at sites like Hafsa Thila or Bathalaa Thila, both known for their vibrant fish life and shark encounters. Depending on conditions, the boat might cruise to the small, nearby Rasdhoo Atoll. This area is famous for Rasdhoo Madivaru, a channel dive offering a chance to spot schooling hammerhead sharks in the early morning.
Dive sites: Hafsa Thila, Rasdhoo Madivaru
Vaavu Atoll
The journey turns southward, crossing to the spectacular Vaavu Atoll, famous for its thrilling channel dives. Sites like Miyaru Kandu ('Shark Channel') offer exciting drifts with grey reef sharks, eagle rays, and schooling jacks. A highlight is often the night dive at Alimatha Jetty, an unforgettable experience with dozens of resident nurse sharks, stingrays, and giant trevallies.
Dive sites: Miyaru Kandu, Alimatha Jetty
South Ari Atoll
The boat returns to South Ari Atoll for the final dives of the trip, offering another chance to enjoy the region's rich marine biodiversity. In the afternoon, the boat anchors near an uninhabited island where guests can enjoy kayaking and paddleboarding. The evening features a special beach barbecue served on the sand, often accompanied by a movie screening under the stars.
Good to know: Final dives of the trip | Kayaking & paddleboarding | Beach BBQ and movie screening
Maamingili, South Ari Atoll
Following a final breakfast on board, it is time to say goodbye to the crew and fellow guests. Guests will be transferred to Maamingili Airport for their onward journey.
Good to know: Final breakfast onboard | Disembarkation | Airport transfer