Princess Maani · Maldives · 8 Days / 7 Nights
Embark on an 8-day expedition centered on the Maldives' magnificent manta ray gatherings. Your adventure begins in North Malé Atoll, renowned for its large pelagic inhabitants. From there, the vessel navigates to Hanifaru Bay within Baa Atoll, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where a multitude of mantas and sometimes whale sharks congregate for feeding. The itinerary further encompasses exhilarating channel dives in Rasdhoo Atoll, and exploration of Ari Atoll's vibrant, biodiverse reefs, frequented by sharks and turtles. The voyage culminates with concluding dives before the return journey to Malé.
Malé
Arrive at Velana International Airport (MLE), where you will be met and transferred to the vessel. After settling into your cabin, you will receive a comprehensive boat and safety briefing. The evening is for relaxation and preparing equipment for the adventure ahead.
Good to know: Itinerary and dive sites are subject to change based on weather conditions and animal sightings to ensure the best possible experience.
North Malé Atoll
The day begins with a check dive in North Malé Atoll to ensure all divers are comfortable and properly weighted. Following the first dives, the boat will begin its crossing towards Baa Atoll. The day typically includes dives at sites known for their healthy corals and abundant reef fish.
Baa Atoll
Today is dedicated to searching for manta rays, for which this UNESCO Biosphere Reserve is world-renowned. Dives will focus on known cleaning stations and feeding hotspots. Depending on the season and conditions, you may witness dozens of mantas feeding together on the plankton-rich currents.
Good to know: One of the week's two night dives may be offered this evening.
Rasdhoo Atoll
After an early morning crossing, diving continues in Rasdhoo Atoll, famous for its channel dives and the chance to see schooling hammerhead sharks at dawn. Dives like Madivaru Corner offer thrilling currents and sightings of sharks, eagle rays, and large schools of fish. The topography features deep walls and exciting drop-offs.
Dive sites: Madivaru Corner
North Ari Atoll
The journey continues into North Ari Atoll, home to some of the Maldives' most iconic dive sites. The day will be spent exploring submerged pinnacles (thilas) that act as cleaning stations and magnets for marine life. This area is celebrated for its colorful soft corals and frequent encounters with grey reef sharks.
Good to know: An exhilarating night dive on a thila, searching for hunting sharks and morays, is often planned here.
South Ari Atoll
Cruising south, the focus shifts to the outer reefs of South Ari Atoll, a known habitat for the ocean's largest fish, the whale shark. Dives will be planned along the reef edge where these gentle giants are often found feeding. The day offers a mix of reef dives and the potential for a truly memorable big animal encounter.
Ari Atoll / South Malé Atoll
The final day of diving consists of one or two morning dives in either Ari or South Malé Atoll, depending on the boat's position. These last dives offer a final chance to enjoy the vibrant Maldivian underwater world before the vessel begins its cruise back towards the port near Malé. The afternoon is for washing gear and relaxing.
Good to know: A 24-hour no-fly period is recommended after your last dive.
Malé
Enjoy a final breakfast on board with your fellow divers and the crew. After goodbyes, you will be transferred back to Velana International Airport (MLE) for your onward flight.