Northern Atolls Diving in Maldives

The Northern Atolls itinerary uncovers the best diving in the Maldives, diving here is an exploration of the finest quality reefs cushioned in peaceful isolation

The Northern Atolls were surely shaped by the hand of a diver, these virgin reef systems North of Male are infrequently visited, which means diving here is an exploration of the finest quality reefs cushioned in peaceful isolation. Stretching north from Lhaviyani atoll, the Northern Atolls itinerary uncovers the best diving in Baa, Raa and Noonu atolls.

Starting the week with a check dive at Kuredu's house reef the trip departs the next day, setting sail for Baa Atoll. Dhigali Haa and Nelivaru are ideal places to spot dolphin and manta throughout the seasons and a trip ashore the sandy white beaches of Dhonfanu gives you a chance to soak up some of the flavours that makes this area so delicious. Moving north into Raa Atoll, the deep pinnacle of Fenfushi Giri is waiting and exploration is the order of the day here. With chances of some exciting Marine Encounters this is where the action can be found. The neighbouring Atoll of Noonu is entirely left over to nature, pausing to stop at Orimas Thila, Dhekanan Faru Thila you can get to grips with some outstanding Maldives diving. Christmas Tree Rock and the Kuredu Express finish the Northern Atolls itinerary before the lines are retied back in Kuredu Island.

The Northern Atolls itinerary kick starts each and every day with giant swollen schools of snapper, fusiliers and jacks. The Maldives is famous for the giant rays that swoop through the region, massive mantas can often be seen at Hanifaru sweeping in to feed on the plankton. Eagle rays congregate on the Kuredu House reef and whole families of grey reef sharks can be found at Orimas. Leopard sharks feed on the sandy bottom at Christmas Tree Rock. Green turtles fly in and out of the shallow overhangs at Kuredu Caves in huge numbers, earning this dive site locally the nickname “the airport”. The Maldives is plainly a fish lovers paradise.

The Northern Atolls is recommended for advanced divers as currents can be swift, particularly in the channels, although there is no minimum dive requirement. The sheer volume of marine life in region makes this itinerary a great choice for photographers. The warm water and gin clear visibility means technical divers can enjoy total comfort with long bottom times. Local regulations limit diving to 30m. Night diving is not always possible on this route as not all overnight moorings are sheltered from current. Kandus, Thilas and Giris are the channels, hidden pinnacles and submerged reefs build to create an unforgettable itinerary.

The Northern Atolls are secluded, escaping from the stresses of every day life. Picking out the very best dive sites over a network of 25 protected areas across the region, this itinerary delivers only the most exquisite diving. And to add to the excitement, guides and crew are constantly on the hunt for new dives sites. The Northern Atolls itinerary has all the ingredients needed to satisfy even the most adventurous spirits.

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Itinerary / Highlights

The atoll system creates a huge number of dive sites - so much so that you can visit an area and dive very different sites each time. These sample itineraries give an indication of where you will visit but the sites dived will depend on season, weather and other local variables.

Day 1
After arrival and transfer to Kuredu island, the check dive is made around Kuredu's house reef and then the boat sets sail north.

Day 2
Kicks off with Dhigali Haa before moving onto Nelivariu Thila. The final dive of the day is made at Dhonfaru Thila

Day 3
Starts at Kihadou Ridge before moving to Landa Giraavaru and Fenfushi Gir. A night dive is made on a sheltered reef such as Honigali.

Day 4
Is a day for Thila diving, visiting Ifuruu Thila, Orimas Thila before moving to Dhekanon Faru Thila. The night dive is made at Dhekanon Faru.

Day 5
Repeats Orimas Thila then moves to Christmas Tree Rock. Raafushi is the last dive of the day.

Day 6
The 6th day starts at Vaarvaru and Fushivaru Kandoo before hitting the Kuredu Express. A night dive is possible on a local wreck before a final night on board.

Day 7
Return transfers from Kuredu to Male airport are made on the final day.

Other Details

Accommodation Details

The following boats run the Northern Atolls itinerary regularly.

Monsoon:-
Monsoon has all the hallmarks of Tornado Marine fleet quality. And this spectacular 36m steel hull motor yacht brings luxury liveaboards to Kuredu. Monsoon takes pride of place as the first liveaboard to operate in the northern atolls and the crew have worked tirelessly to hunt out all the best dive sites in this unexplored region of the Maldives.

Departure Dates, Options & Prices

Departures are available throughout the year and generally depart on a Sunday. Packages are generally created with London flights but regional departures are available on request. Please make a note on your enquiry form when requesting a quote of your airport preference.

0800 072 8221, +44 (0)1483 271 765