Princess Maani · Maldives · 8 Days / 7 Nights
This journey explores the celebrated central atolls of the Maldives, beginning and ending in Male. The route covers North and South Male Atolls, Vaavu Atoll for thrilling night dives with nurse sharks, and the expansive Ari Atoll, renowned for year-round manta ray and whale shark sightings. In addition to diving, the trip features beach barbecues, visits to local and uninhabited islands, and a cultural tour of the capital city, Male, providing a comprehensive Maldivian experience.
Male
Upon arrival at Male International Airport, guests are transferred to the vessel. The first day is for relaxation and acclimatization, allowing everyone to settle in, meet the crew and fellow divers, and attend a welcome and safety briefing before the adventure begins.
Good to know: airport transfer|safety briefing|meet crew and guests
South Male Atoll / Vaavu Atoll
The cruise heads south for the first dives of the trip. An exploration of a sunken fishing boat reveals a haven for microfauna, lionfish, and glassfish. Dives in strong currents, known as 'Kandu', near Gurahidoo island attract larger predators like reef sharks, Napoleon wrasse, and green turtles at sites like Kandooma Thila. The day concludes in Vaavu Atoll with a memorable night dive or snorkel at Alimath Jetty, famous for its resident nurse sharks.
Dive sites: Kandooma Thila, Alimath Jetty
Good to know: night dive|snorkeling
Vaavu Atoll / South Ari Atoll
Following the final dive in Vaavu Atoll, the boat sets a course west to South Ari Atoll. Dolphin sightings often occur en route. This area is celebrated for its underwater pinnacles, or 'Thilas,' which sustain vibrant coral gardens and abundant marine life. Divers explore spectacular sites near Dhangheti island, such as 5 Rocks, recognized for its stunning blue gorgonians, and Kuda Thila Raa. The day's activities usually culminate in an island barbecue.
Dive sites: 5 Rocks, Kuda Thila Raa
Good to know: BBQ on the beach
Ari Atoll
The day is devoted to navigating Ari Atoll, exploring areas where recent sightings of manta rays and whale sharks occurred. The schedule is adaptable to enhance opportunities for encounters. Should conditions permit, a happy hour unfolds on a scenic sandbank or uninhabited island following the day's underwater excursions.
Good to know: happy hour on a sandbank or a desert island
Ari Atoll
The northward journey through Ari Atoll continues, featuring dives on expansive coral tables and iconic sites like Radhigga Thila, Moofushi Kandu, and Emboodhoo Thila. The day concludes as the boat enters Fesdhoo lagoon, offering a potential opportunity for a night dive or snorkel with manta rays.
Dive sites: Radhigga Thila, Moofushi Kandu, Emboodhoo Thila
Good to know: night dive or snorkeling with Manta Ray
North Ari Atoll
Leaving Fesdhoo, the ship heads into North Ari Atoll, where vibrant coral environments thrive. Underwater adventures at renowned locations like Fish Head, Maaya Thila, or Hafsa Thila frequently reveal large reef sharks and graceful eagle rays. An extra night dive at Maaya Thila is an option, highlighting its lively nocturnal marine life.
Dive sites: Fish Head, Maaya Thila, Hafsa Thila
Good to know: extra night dive
North Ari Atoll / Male / Hulhumale
The final full day includes a mix of relaxed diving and scenic cruising while returning towards the Male area. After three dives, the afternoon is dedicated to a cultural tour of Male or the island of Hulhumale. Guests can experience the local lifestyle by visiting the bustling fish and fruit markets and exploring historical highlights.
Good to know: tour of Male or Hulhumale|visit fruit market|visit fish market
Male
Following a final breakfast onboard, guests check out by 7:30 AM. A transfer to Male International Airport is provided for departing flights. The last dive of the trip is conducted on the previous day to ensure a safe 24-hour surface interval before flying.
Good to know: transfer to airport