Underwater Paradise: Male Atoll Liveaboard Diving in Maldives

Immerse yourself in the serene beauty of the Maldives as you embark on a liveaboard diving adventure across the pristine waters of Male Atoll. With its crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral gardens, and a large variety of marine life, Male Atoll liveaboard offers an unparalleled diving experience that captivates the hearts of many.

The atoll comprises two main regions, North Male Atoll and South Male Atoll, each boasting unique dive sites and underwater marvels waiting to be explored. Male Atoll is conveniently located close to the main marina, making it a prime destination for Maldives liveaboard diving enthusiasts.

About Male Atoll Liveaboard

The vibrant colors and the playful interactions with marine creatures make diving here an unforgettable experience.

Male Atoll, also known as Kaafu Atoll, comprises North & South Male Atolls, and two smaller atolls, Gaafaru & Kaashidhoo. North Male Atoll, larger and closer to the capital Male and Velana International Airport, is 60+ km long and 43 km wide, hosting around 50 islands.

In North Male Atoll liveaboard, dive sites like Banana Reef and Manta Point showcase vivid coral formations, abundant fish, and manta ray encounters. Underwater conditions are favorable with clear visibility, mild currents, and warm waters year-round.

Conversely, South Male Atoll , separated by a deep-water channel, is roughly half its size with about 30 islands. Both atolls have a mix of inhabited islands, resorts, and privately leased or owned islands, with a majority situated towards the east and south-east due to ocean currents and winds over thousands of years.

South Male Atoll is known for Kandooma Thila and Cocoa Thila, this atoll offers thrilling drift dives amid strong currents, attracting large pelagics like sharks and tunas. The fewer crowds provide a serene diving experience. Despite the currents, visibility remains good, and the warm waters cater to divers of all levels.

For those passionate about wrecks, Kuda Giri Wreck, located in South Male Atoll, is a popular dive site in the Maldives. Divers can explore a sunken cargo ship lying at a depth of around 30 meters, surrounded by colorful coral reefs and abundant marine life such as moray eels, batfish, and sometimes nurse sharks. The wreck is encrusted with soft corals, making it a picturesque site for underwater photography. The nearby reef also offers a wall dive, providing a diverse diving experience. The warm and clear waters of the atoll, with good visibility, make it a favorable spot for divers of all levels.

When To go?

Diving with a Male Atoll liveaboard is a year-round affair, but the best time to visit is during the dry season, from November to April, when the seas are calm and the visibility is at its peak.

Visiting Male Atoll liveaboard in the off-season is also possible. Rain may be present and the ocean may be a bit more rough compared to the high season but diving is still as spectacular.

The water temperatures are consistently warm, ranging from 26°C to 29°C, making it a comfortable haven for divers of all levels. Depths vary across dive sites, but on average, they range from 10 to 30 meters, offering a variety of experiences from shallow coral gardens to deeper explorations.

Tips For Travellers

Prepare to carry some cash in US Dollar ($) currency for gratuities and other smaller expenses. The US Dollar is widely accepted.

Maldives is a muslim country and it is forbidden to carry any alcohol. Ensure to check what other import restrictions may be prior to your arrival.

Purchase travel and diving insurance prior to your trip. Maldives is a remote location and some dive sites can be quite far away from nearest healthcare facilities.

Check the minimum diving experience as some dive sites require advanced certification or a specific number of logged dives to be able to enjoy.

How to get there & Ports of Departure?

To arrive in Maldives travelers should book their flights landing in Male International Airport (Velana International Airport - MLE). Upon landing, you’ll proceed to immigration. Citizens of most countries receive a free 30-day tourist visa upon arrival. Make sure your passport has at least six months of validity.

If your liveaboard embarks from Male, a speedboat will likely pick you up from the airport or a designated meeting point in Male. This ride usually takes less than an hour. Some liveaboards start from other atolls, requiring a domestic flight. These usually depart from the same airport, but you'll need to check-in separately for the domestic leg.

Essential Travel Tips for Liveaboard Adventures

Marine Park Fees: Be aware of per person, per day marine park fees. Some liveaboard packages include these fees, while others require onboard payment. Payment options include Visa, Mastercard, cash, or travelers checks.
Passport Validity: Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months after your planned entry date. Most countries require this, along with a return ticket. Check visa requirements in advance.
Health Preparations: Consult your doctor 8 weeks prior to your trip for vaccinations or preventive measures recommended for your destination.

Note: Please review the specific terms and conditions of your chosen liveaboard for any additional marine park fees or travel requirements.