Sachika · Maldives · 11 Days / 10 Nights
This liveaboard trip explores the northern atolls of the Maldives, commencing in North Malé Atoll before moving on to Lhaviyani Atoll, known for its shipwrecks and abundant shark populations. The journey continues to Noonu Atoll, with its pristine coral formations, and then to Raa Atoll where manta rays and whale sharks are often sighted. The itinerary also includes Baa Atoll, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, before concluding in Rasdhoo Atoll and returning to Malé. This expedition offers a blend of challenging dives and simpler options, alongside opportunities for cultural immersion and diverse marine encounters.
Guests will be welcomed upon arrival in Malé, transferred to the Sachika liveaboard, and complete check-in procedures. A comprehensive safety briefing will be provided, and cabins assigned. The vessel then departs to begin the journey to the first dive area.
The expedition begins with dives in North Malé Atoll, known for its vibrant thilas and channels. Divers can explore rich coral formations and expect encounters with pelagic fish. The area also offers opportunities to spot reef sharks and various fish species amidst dynamic currents.
Today's dives focus on Lhaviyani Atoll, an area celebrated for its shipwrecks and diverse shark populations. The dive sites here often feature thriving reefs with schooling fish and potential encounters with larger pelagics in deeper channels. Divers can explore the unique blend of artificial and natural reef structures.
The journey continues to Noonu Atoll, celebrated for its pristine and untouched coral reefs. Divers will explore vibrant pinnacles and channels, observing a multitude of fusiliers and colorful groups of playful dolphins. The area's healthy coral gardens provide a rich habitat for various reef fish.
Today's itinerary features Raa Atoll, renowned for its strong currents which attract large marine life like manta rays and whale sharks. Divers will explore channels and thilas, keeping an eye out for these majestic creatures feeding on plankton. The area also boasts healthy coral ecosystems and diverse reef fish.
The expedition reaches Baa Atoll, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, with a focus on Hanifaru Bay, world-famous for its seasonal aggregations of manta rays and whale sharks. While diving, guests will explore the area's diverse marine biodiversity, including vibrant coral gardens and a variety of reef fish. Snorkeling in Hanifaru Bay is a highlight during the appropriate season.
Continuing in Baa Atoll, divers will further explore its rich marine biodiversity, focusing on channels and thilas. The reefs are known for their vibrant health and a high density of schooling fish. Opportunities for encountering large pelagics are frequent, especially around cleaning stations and nutrient-rich areas.
Today, the liveaboard moves to Rasdhoo Atoll, which is known for its deep channels and abundant fish life. Divers can expect thrilling drift dives through channels, observing large aggregations of pelagic fish. The area offers an exciting dimension to the dive experience with potential shark encounters.
The journey proceeds to South Malé Atoll, offering a variety of dive sites from thilas to outer reef walls. These diverse underwater topographies support a wide array of marine life, from colorful reef fish to larger pelagic species. Currents can be dynamic, providing exciting drift diving opportunities.
The final day of diving takes place in proximity to Malé, offering last opportunities to explore the vibrant underwater world. These dives will showcase the diverse marine ecosystems characteristic of the central Atolls, with a variety of reef fish and corals. In the evening, the vessel will cruise back towards Malé.
After a final breakfast on board, guests will disembark the Sachika liveaboard. Transfers will be arranged to Malé Airport for onward travel.