Dive sites Diverland Summer Island
No. 1
BODUHITI CORNER (MANTA POINT)
Located south of Summer Island at the southern corner of the Hithi Channel, the site is also known as Manta Point.
The giant rays regularly come to the cleaning stations between December and April.
Many moray eels and lobsters make their home here; they like to hide in small caves in the reef. Whitetip reef sharks can often be seen resting on the sandy areas.
The highlight of this site is undoubtedly the cleaning stations on the top reef at a depth of just four to seven meters. Thousands of small cleaner fish go about their business there. As the northeast monsoon pushes plankton-rich water from north to south, the manta rays gather in the Hithi Channel for a feast. With their mouths open, they filter the plankton from the water. They then clean themselves at the surrounding cleaning stations, making it the ideal place for us to observe these majestic animals.
Even if there are no manta rays around, this spot is always worth a dive. Plenty of small creatures hide among the coral growth. During the southwest monsoon, clear water from the south is pushed into the atoll, creating ideal conditions for spotting eagle rays and sharks.
Depth: 4–28 m
Current: weak to moderate
Difficulty: easy
Boat trip: 45 min
No. 2
THE PEAK
The Peak is located south of Summer Island in the Hithi Channel, just off the island of Boduhithi.
This dive site is also formed by a thila. It extends nine meters below the water surface. The dive begins in the blue water; from there, divers drift with the current toward the thila until they reach a depth of approximately 18 meters. Then, they dive in the backwater along the reef. The dive site is very diverse. Many coral blocks provide shelter for numerous fish. The main attraction at the Peak is an offshore reef section that extends from 28 to 12 meters.
Variety is guaranteed: Whitetip reef sharks like to patrol the currents here, crayfish congregate under the overhangs, and sweetlips and bluestripe snapper frolic in the reef scenery. Huge schools of fusiliers and surgeonfish swim in the blue waters in front.
Eagle rays can often be seen over the peak, and even nurse sharks and leopard sharks are regular visitors to this dive site.
Even if there are fewer large animals around, the dive is always impressive due to the sheer number of sea creatures.
In stronger current conditions, a quick descent is necessary.
Depth: 10–30 m
Current: weak to strong
Difficulty: depends on the current
Boat trip: 40 min
NITROX recommended
No. 3
BODUHITHI THILA
The Boduhithi Thila is located in the middle of the Hithi Channel south of Summer Island.
With a size of around 800 x 500 meters, it is a medium-sized thila that rises up to eight meters below the water surface.
A drift dive on the west side of the reef is particularly recommended. There, three sandy inlets extend 25 meters up to the reef top. Between the sandy areas, small reef slopes have formed, where small caves can also be found.
The fish population is enormous and very diverse. There are usually several Napoleon wrasses, sweetlips, and groupers, and whitetip reef sharks and turtles are often encountered.
There are also some cleaning stations on the Thila, which are often visited by manta rays from December to April.
Depth: 8–25 m
Current: weak to strong
Difficulty: depends on the current
Boat trip: 30 min
NITROX recommended
No. 4
KUDA KANDU
Kuda Kandu translates as "Little Channel." This dive site is located right on the inside of the channel.
From parrotfish to barracudas, whitetip reef sharks, Napoleon wrasse, and turtles, you'll find plenty of things divers love to see here. During the season from December to April, it's even possible to spot manta rays, and with a bit of luck, maybe even a whale shark.
At the beginning of the dive, divers are best off drifting with the gentle current at a depth of about 20 meters, later gradually increasing to about 10 to 15 meters. All kinds of large fish can be found there.
This site can be visited by both beginners and advanced divers.
Depth: 5–30 m
Current: weak to moderate
Difficulty: easy to medium
Boat trip: 30 min
NITROX recommended
No. 5
WOSHI MAS THILA
The thila south of Summer Island in the Madivaru Channel resembles the shape of a water droplet.
It starts at a depth of 18 meters and drops to over 50 meters.
At about 30 meters you can see whitetip reef sharks, grey reef sharks, tuna, barracudas and much more.
In strong currents, it's possible to hold on for a moment to observe the animals. Otherwise, you can follow the current along the reef. The reef formation and fish diversity are equally breathtaking. The large overhangs, between 26 and 30 meters, are fantastically covered with gorgonians. Despite all the colorful diversity, you shouldn't forget to look into the blue water to avoid missing Napoleon wrasse, tuna, and sharks.
FOR UNACCOMPANIED DIVERS ONLY
Depth: 18–30 m
Current: medium to strong
Difficulty: depends on the current
Boat trip: 30 min
NITROX recommended
No. 6
HEMBADHOO BEYRU
Not far from Summer Island lies the beautiful coral garden of Hembadhoo Beyru.
It's worth staying in the shallow area a little longer here, as the healthy coral growth provides ample shelter for many fish species. Don't be surprised if a whitetip reef shark suddenly emerges from its resting place among the coral branches.
Those who dive deeper are attracted by the numerous coral formations that provide hiding places for lobsters, moray eels and other creatures.
It's always a good idea to keep an eye on the blue water, as here, open to the wide channel, the reef offers the chance to see eagle rays and (during the northeast monsoon) even mobulas.
Depth: 2–30 m
Current: weak
Difficulty: easy
Boat trip: 20 min
No. 7
HEMBADHOO WRECK
Hembadhoo Wreck is an easy dive on the island of Hembadhoo.
In the mid-1990s, a 16-meter-long harbor tug was sunk on the reef. It stands upright at a depth of 22 meters. Its beautifully overgrown superstructure extends to a height of 14 meters.
The dive begins a short distance from the wreck, allowing time to explore the shallow waters. Numerous hard corals extend from the surface down to 15 meters. But they're not the only ones to admire: damselfish, snapper, and sweetlips are everywhere. Closer to the wreck, they're usually joined by batfish and jacks. Small shrimp, nudibranchs, and scorpionfish can be found all over the wreck, along with the odd ray or whitetip reef shark.
After a relaxing time on the wreck, the dive ends on the reef or on the reef top. There, you can leisurely swim along the coral formations. Moray eels and lionfish can be spotted on small overhangs.
Depth: 2–24 m
Current: weak
Difficulty: easy
Boat trip: 20 min
No. 8
MADI THILA
Madi Thila is located south of Summer Island in the Madivaru Channel.
At four kilometers wide, it is the largest thila in North Male Atoll. The sheer size of the thila offers a variety of diving opportunities.
The preferred areas are the west and south sides of the outer reef. Here, the reef drops from eight meters to 25 meters. Large schools of fusiliers, red-tooth triggerfish, and surgeonfish can be observed at these spots, which accompany us throughout the dive. Turtles, which like to eat sponges, are often found here, and large Napoleon wrasse and whitetip reef sharks are not uncommon.
During the northeast monsoon (December to April), manta rays can regularly be found at Madi Thila, filtering the plankton from the water at the surface.
Depth: 10–30 m
Current: medium to strong
Difficulty: depends on the current
Boat trip: 25 min
NITROX recommended
No. 9
MADIVARU BEYRU
Madivaru Beyru is located south of Summer Island on the outer reef.
The dive usually begins in the shallow area at the top of the reef. There, you can see numerous coral formations and plenty of schooling fish. The channel-shaped outcrops that extend from the top of the reef to the edge are striking. Moray eels and baby whitetip reef sharks often hide here, and with a bit of luck, nurse sharks and turtles might be spotted.
Soon, divers reach a large sandy bay, which begins at about 16 meters and slopes gently outward. Sharks and rays often rest here. Shrimp, lionfish, small moray eels, and the occasional young ray invite you to linger a while at the coral formations along the sandy area.
After circling the sandy bay, the divers begin their ascent along the main reef to the reef top. Eagle rays and even manta rays can be regularly spotted there.
An easy dive that even experienced divers will appreciate.
Depth: 5–28 m
Current: weak
Difficulty: easy to medium
Boat trip: 25 min
No. 10
MADIGAA
The bay, shaped like the letter Omega, is located on the western outer reef of the North Male Atoll, at the northern tip of Reehti Ra.
Madigaa is definitely worth at least two dives. The shallow area slopes gently down to 18 meters and is populated by countless different schools of fish. Turtles are also not uncommon.
Divers are protected from the currents on the outer reef, and everyone can take their time exploring the sandy bay. Large rock formations provide shelter for lobsters and moray eels. Whitetip reef sharks and stingrays can often be seen on the sandy bottom of the bay. Rays and nurse sharks often hide under the occasional overhang.
Depending on the time of year, there is a very good chance of seeing eagle rays and manta rays.
A beautiful, easy dive that has something to offer divers of every level.
Depth: 5–30 m
Current: weak
Difficulty: easy to medium
Boat ride: 20 min
NITROX recommended
No. 11
BLUE POINT
>>> (currently not being visited, reef in poor condition) <<<
No. 12
BLUE LAGOON
Blue Lagoon Summer Island is unique and cannot be compared to any other house reef in the Maldives.
Over the years, the Diverland Summer Island team has created a man-made underwater park that is second to none. Various species of fish, rays, moray eels, and invertebrates have quickly found their home here. Through coral sponsorships and our in-house coral nursery, the reef formations in the Blue Lagoon are continually being replanted and enhanced.
The newly created Coral Pop Reef, with an area of over 100 square meters, offers further protection and refuge for other marine life.
A very special highlight is the night dive in the Blue Lagoon; then several rays and 1000 eyes of small shrimps and crabs accompany the divers.
Depth: 4–25 meters
Current: none to weak
Difficulty: easy
Accessible from the shore
No. 13
ZIYAARA CORNER
Ziyaara Corner is located northwest of Summer Island at the southern corner of Makunudu Channel.
The dive starts at the outer reef of Summer Island and leads around the corner into the channel.
The reef top is bustling with activity, with red-tooth triggerfish and blue fusiliers. Large coral boulders, among which lobsters, nurse sharks, and moray eels can occasionally be found, characterize the reef. Its slope consists of alternating sandy areas and coral. Many different species, from stag corals and fire corals to small gorgonians, grow here. At 23 meters, just before the channel mouth, there are several small overhangs populated by glassfish.
A spot for divers who have an eye for small things, but also enjoy being surprised by whitetip reef sharks, tuna or eagle rays.
Depth: 5–30 m
Current: weak to moderate
Difficulty: easy to medium
Boat ride: 15 min
No. 14
TURTLE REEF
The reef is located between Summer Island and Makunudu.
It is bisected lengthwise by a sand strait and drops from five to about 30 meters. The site can be easily dived in both directions. Whitetip reef sharks occasionally appear there, but the reef owes its name to the turtles that frequently appear there. With a bit of luck, you might spot rays buried in the sand. Table corals, leather corals, and gorgonians provide shelter for moray eels, lobsters, and sweetlips.
Depth: 5–30 m
Current: weak to strong
Difficulty: easy to medium
Boat ride: 10 min
No. 15
REEDHOO GIRI
Reedhoo Giri is located between Makunudu and Summer Island in the inner atoll.
The reef, called Giri, extends to about 1.5 meters below the water surface. It is shaped almost at a right angle. A small thila precedes it.
The most impressive thing about Reedhoo Giri is its yellow color. There are hardly any spots that don't shimmer yellow, unless a sand spit extends through the reef. Moray eels, parrotfish, and bannerfish can be seen everywhere.
There are many turtles, and nurse sharks also find shelter here to rest. Small animal lovers will also get their money's worth and can discover scorpionfish, conch shells, stonefish, snails, worms, shrimp, and much more.
An ideal dive site for both beginners and advanced divers.
Depth: 5–25 m
Current: weak
Difficulty: easy
Boat ride: 10 min
No. 16
YELLOW REEF
Yellow Reef is located between Makunudu and Summer Island in the interior atoll.
The shallows extend to about two meters below the water surface and are therefore also known as Giri. Its name makes it clear: yellow is also the dominant color on this reef. Moray eels, parrotfish, and bannerfish can be seen everywhere.
Lovers of small animals will get their money's worth here and will discover scorpionfish, stonefish, snails, worms, shrimp, tritons and much more.
An ideal dive site for beginners and advanced divers.
Depth: 5–25 m
Current: weak
Difficulty: easy
Boat ride: 10 min
No. 17
MURAKA FARU
Dive site near the island of Makunudu in the inner toll.
The dive begins by descending to about 14 meters on the gently sloping reef, from where it gradually ascends to the shallower area. The vegetation is most beautiful between eight and twelve meters. Nurse sharks often hide under the corals here. Lobsters, moray eels, turtles, and various smaller animals also call this area home.
Depth: 2–20 m
Current: weak
Difficulty: easy
Boat ride: 10 min
Nr. 18
MAKUNUDU GARDEN
Der Platz liegt wie Nr. 17 nahe der Insel Makunudu im Inneren des Atolls.
Er ist sowohl für Anfänger wie auch für fortgeschrittene Taucher geeignet und besticht durch die schöne Unterwasserlandschaft und viele Schildkröten.
Der abwechslungsreiche Korallenbewuchs zieht eine Vielzahl von Schwarm- und Rifffischen an, auch Räuber wie Thunfische und Barrakudas werden dadurch angelockt.
Zu Beginn des Tauchgangs lässt man sich am besten gemütlich am flach abfallenden Riff auf etwa 20 Meter sinken und hält sich länger zwischen zwölf und 18 Metern Tiefe auf. In dieser üppig bewachsenen Zone ist eine vielfältige Tierwelt zu beobachten, angefangen von Nacktschnecken über Langusten bis zum prächtigen Juwelenbarsch.
Das Riffdach ist ideal, um den Tauchgang mit dem Sicherheitsstop zu beenden.
Tiefe: 2–20 m
Strömung: schwach
Schwierigkeit: einfach
Bootsfahrt: 10 min
No. 19
MAKUNUDU INSIDE
It is one of the largest coral gardens near Summer Island.
Depending on the current conditions, the dive begins at the sand strait, initially continuing fairly shallow. The reef top is beautifully overgrown and offers an enormous variety of fish.
In the middle of the sandy strait in the reef is a large coral block where nurse and whitetip reef sharks often find shelter. Divers are often accompanied by turtles for extended periods. It's worth swimming very slowly from one coral formation to the next, as there are the occasional stonefish or scorpionfish to spot, as well as plenty of small creatures among the corals.
Depth: 5–25 m
Current: weak to moderate
Difficulty: easy to medium
Boat ride: 15 min
No. 20
REETHI GIRI NORTH
Reethi Giri North is located east of Makunudu Island in the Makunudu Channel.
A breathtaking underwater landscape can be seen here: a vast coral garden with hills up to seven meters high and bright sandy valleys in between.
The reef drops from seven meters to 25 meters. Large schools of fusiliers, red-tooth triggerfish, and surgeonfish can be observed in this garden, which usually stay with divers throughout the dive.
Turtles can often be seen feeding on sponges and corals. Stingrays and tuna are also not uncommon. Free-swimming or sleeping whitetip reef sharks and nurse sharks are also occasionally seen here. In summary: A site that offers new experiences on every dive and is always varied.
Depth: 12–30 m
Current: weak to moderate
Difficulty: depends on the current
Boat trip: 20 min
NITROX recommended
No. 21
MAKUNUDU PLATEAU
Located near the island of the same name, it is another “must-do dive”.
Here, divers feel like they're swimming in an aquarium. Large, beautiful coral formations on the plateau (five to twelve meters deep) are favorite hiding places for nurse sharks. Hawksbill turtles can also be seen foraging here.
Many beautifully overgrown small grottos for lobsters and moray eels can be found along the wall. Fusiliers, mackerel, and tuna are active in the blue water, providing unforgettable sights. Whitetip reef sharks are also regular visitors to the reef, and with a little luck, you might even spot a school of eagle rays.
Depth: 5–30 m
Current: weak
Difficulty: easy
Boat ride: 15 min
No. 22
HANDHI THILA
Handhi Thila is located north of Summer Island in the Makunudu Channel.
This dive site is also formed by a thila that extends to twelve meters below the water surface. Its southeastern part is preferable, although this is only possible with sufficient current.
The descent begins in blue water, then the divers drift with the current to the thila. They reach a depth of around 25 meters, where the group stays for a while.
Patrolling grey and whitetip reef sharks, tuna, and numerous schools of handi (jack trevally) can often be seen. The reef is very diverse, with numerous coral blocks providing shelter for the fish. Lobsters congregate in the overhangs, and sweetlips, bluestripe snapper, and fusiliers migrate in schools.
A beautiful, varied dive, but one that is often difficult due to the current conditions on site.
Depth: 18–30 m
Current: weak to strong
Difficulty: depends on the current
Boat ride: 10 min
NITROX recommended
No. 23
BLUE CANYON
Blue Canyon is located north of Summer Island in the Makunudu Channel.
The canyon is formed by a thila and large rock formations in front of it. The canyon itself is home to an incredible diversity of life. The dominant and striking feature is the blue soft corals that have settled everywhere, creating a colorful display at this point in the channel.
The dive itself is considered difficult, as the thila's reef only begins at 22 meters. Therefore, both the descent and ascent of the dive take place in blue water.
To truly experience the splendor of the soft corals, the dive site should be visited during a (strong) current: this is when the corals are open. Another reason why Blue Canyon is only recommended for experienced divers is the moderate to strong currents at the beginning, which make even the descent difficult.
FOR UNACCOMPANIED DIVERS ONLY
Depth: 22–38 m
Current: medium to strong
Difficulty: difficult
Boat ride: 8 min
NITROX recommended
No. 24
KUDA THILA
Kuda Thila is located north of Summer Island in the Makunudu Channel.
The thila roof rises to eight meters below the water surface and drops to a depth of 30 meters. The current should not be underestimated, as it can pull divers away from the thila; therefore, it is recommended to descend quickly to the reef top.
Once you reach the thila, you dive along the slope with the current. Large rock formations provide frequent current shade for divers and fish.
It is important not to go too far away from the Thila, otherwise the current can become too strong.
The dive is made at the Thila roof and the safety stop takes place in the blue water.
A beautiful dive that has a lot to offer: large schools of schooling fish such as blue-striped snapper, mackerel, barracuda, sweetlips, but also nurse sharks and even more large fish.
Depth: 15–30 m
Current: weak to strong
Difficulty: depends on the current
Boat ride: 10 min
NITROX recommended
Nr. 25
ZIYAARA THILA
Das Ziyaara Thila liegt im breiten Kanal zwischen Summer Island und Himmiya Faru, dem westlichen Außenriff nördlich von Summer Island.
Das Riff fällt von neun Meter bis teilweise über 30 Meter ab. Da das Riff ab 25 Meter versandet, ist sicher die 10–20 Meter tiefe Zone am interessantesten. Hier gibt es kleine Überhänge mit Schwarzen Korallen; Rotfeuerfische, Barsche und vieles mehr können bestaunt werden.
Nicht nur riesige Schulen Blauer Füsiliere, Wimpelfische und Barrakudas im Blauwasser machen diesen Tauchgang zu einem Erlebnis. Zu sehen sind auch faszinierende Napoleons, Skorpionfische, Kraken und Nacktschnecken, die das Riff zu ihrem Lebensraum erkoren haben.
Tiefe: 9–30 m
Strömung: schwach bis stark
Schwierigkeit: strömungsabhängig
Bootsfahrt: 15 min
NITROX empfohlen
Nr. 26
ERI FARU
Nördlich von Summer Island, an der Nordseite des Makunudu-Kanals.
Jeder kann hier den Tauchspaß genießen und die erstaunliche Vielfalt der Meeresbewohner bestaunen. Immer wieder mal sind hier Rochen oder Haie anzutreffen. Getaucht wird entlang des Riffs, das von drei Meter bis auf ein Sandplateau auf 17 Meter abfällt. Hier ruhen sich oft Weißspitzen-Riffhaie aus, und mit etwas Glück können Stachelrochen bei der Nahrungssuche beobachtet werden.
Aus dem Sandboden erheben sich zwei kleine Riffe bis in eine Tiefe von 14 Meter, die dem Hauptriff vorgelagert sind. Hier tummeln sich Rotfeuerfische, Wimpelfische, Rotzahndrücker und viele andere Fischarten. Langusten schielen unter kleinen Felsvorsprüngen hervor.
Auf der Außenseite dieser kleinen Erhebungen fällt das Riff auf den Grund des Kanals auf über 30 Meter ab.
Der Tauchgang wird am Hauptriff ausgetaucht und beendet. Hier gibt es einen starken Neubewuchs von Hirsch-, Feuer- und Lederkorallen. Die Artenvielfalt des Tauchplatzes ist überwältigend.
Tiefe: 5–25 m
Strömung: schwach bis mittel
Schwierigkeit: einfach bis mittel
Bootsfahrt: 20 min
No. 27
KUDA FARU
Kuda Faru is located north of Summer Island directly in the mouth of the Makunudu Channel.
The channel is a drift dive, preferably from the outside in. We try to enter the water near the main reef; however, a descent in blue water is often necessary; then we simply drift to the reef.
At this point, you leave the main reef and dive over a sand saddle onto the thila roof at a depth of about 14 meters. During strong currents, divers hold onto the edge and look north. This way, grey reef sharks, whitetip reef sharks, eagle rays, and even large Napoleon wrasse can be observed. On the reef roof, which is covered with many small corals, live many schooling fish, a few turtles, and a keen eye is sure to spot a scorpionfish or stonefish.
This dive site is a must-visit for all Maldives divers. Sharks are not uncommon at this site; they are a regular feature.
Depth: 12–25 m
Current: weak to strong
Difficulty: medium to difficult
Boat trip: 20 min
NITROX recommended
No. 28
Eriyadhoo Outside
Outer reef near Eriyadhoo island.
The reef drops from five to 28 meters, but from twelve meters onwards it is steeper than in the upper area.
Very varied site with bays and curves throughout the reef section, which silts up and tapers off more shallowly from about 28 meters.
The dive begins at the top of the reef, then leads to the edge, from where divers descend to a depth of 25 meters. Large coral formations provide shelter for schools of blue-striped snapper and oriental sweetlips.
Lobsters also like to hide under these rocks, and if you're lucky, you might occasionally spot a stingray or nurse shark. Large Napoleon wrasse and eagle rays are also often seen here.
You can dive along the reef or on the reef top, where lionfish and moray eels call home. It's an easy dive that offers something for all divers.
Depth: 6–30 m
Current: weak to moderate
Difficulty: easy
Boat trip: 25 min
Nr. 29
LEO’S REEF
Ein sanft abfallendes Riff am westlichen Außenriff.
Der Tauchplatz läuft zwischen 25 und 30 Meter in einer Sandfläche aus und ist somit auch für Einsteiger ideal. Als kleine Attraktion gelten Weißspitzenriffhaie und häufig auch Stachelrochen, die auf dem Sandgrund dösen. Die Lage dieses Riffs lockt eine Unzahl an Rifffischen und kleinen Raubfischen an. Vor allem die farbenfrohen Füsilierfische mit ihrem strahlenden Blau und Gelb bieten zu Tausenden ein beeindruckendes Schauspiel. Mal schweben sie träge in unmittelbarer Nähe des Tauchers, kurz darauf flieht der ganze Schwarm im Zick-Zack-Kurs und gleicht dabei mit seinen blitzenden Farben einem bunten Feuerwerk.
Die Fischvielfalt und die bizarren Einbuchtungen und Korallenformationen auf dem Riffdach machen diesen ruhigen Tauchgang sehr interessant.
Tiefe: 8–30 m
Strömung: schwach bis mittel
Schwierigkeit: einfach
Bootsfahrt: 25 min
No. 30
HIMMIYA OUTSIDE
Like Leo's Reef, located on the western outer reef, this dive site is ideal for both beginners and advanced divers.
Two large coral bays are connected here by a steeply sloping reef. The reef itself is impressive for its diverse formations and numerous invertebrates.
In the coves you can see whitetip reef sharks and often stingrays dozing on the sandy bottom.
The absolute highlight is a long coral outcrop that extends from the main reef to a depth of approximately 26 meters. Here, you'll find huge schools of blue-striped snapper and fusiliers, passing larger animals, and plenty of smaller creatures. If you take your time, you might find a longnose hawksbill among the corals.
Depth: 8–30 m
Current: weak to moderate
Difficulty: easy
Boat trip: 35 min
No. 31
AYASIGGI OUTSIDE
Dive site north of Summer Island near the Dhuni Channel on the western outer reef of the atoll.
The reef drops from seven to 25 meters. Thilas located in front of the inlets are always worth a detour; large fish can often be seen there. From the top of the reef, the dive first leads to the edge, then descends to 25 meters.
Bluestripe snapper and oriental sweetlips swim around large coral blocks in this depth range. Stingrays and nurse sharks occasionally lurk in their shadows. Napoleon wrasse and eagle rays are often seen among the free swimmers.
At the end of the dive, you'll surface further up the reef or on the reef top. Giant moray eels, net moray eels, and numerous lionfish can be seen there.
If the current is right, this dive site offers the option of drifting into the channel – which can be very spectacular.
Depth: 7–30 m
Current: weak to strong
Difficulty: depends on the current
Boat trip: 40 min
NITROX recommended
No. 32
AYASIGGI THILA
Reef in Dhuni Channel.
The roof of the thila begins at a depth of approximately 12 to 15 meters. Below, the reef drops to over 35 meters. The entire thila is impressive simply because of the sheer number of overhangs. Soft corals appear in vibrant colors, inspiring curiosity to explore this reef. Sharks and rays can be seen swimming by in the blue water, and turtles and huge schools of fish frolic on the reef.
Depth: 12–30 m
Current: weak to strong
Difficulty: depends on the current
Boat trip: 45 min
NITROX recommended
No. 33
DEVIL'S ROCK
In the north of Summer Island in the Akirifushi channel.
A spectacular coral formation forms about 80 meters from the southern main reef of the channel. A large coral cone (approximately 150 x 80 meters) rises from a depth of over 40 meters, with its peak at 12 meters visible from the water surface.
Divers jump into the water from the boat so they can dive directly to the tip of the reef cone. From there, they descend to a depth of 25 meters to circumnavigate the cone. Numerous overhangs can be seen, and in some cases, a connection in the reef allows diving from one to the other. Covered with soft, whip, black, and fan corals, each overhang is a feast for the eyes. The reef itself also boasts a diverse array of corals and fish.
Depth: 10–30 m
Current: weak to strong
Difficulty: depends on the current
Boat trip: 45 min
NITROX recommended
No. 34
AKIRIFUSHI CAVES
The island of Akirifushi is located in the northwest of the North Male Atoll.
South of the island, the reef forms large overhangs, the so-called Akirifushi Caves. The rocky reef floor is dotted with sponges, soft corals, and anemones. Numerous fish species swim around the hard corals.
Divers at this spot are often accompanied by countless bannerfish and fusiliers.
In the deeper part of the reef there are small overhangs, canyons and ledges where soldierfish, groupers, oriental sweetlips and angelfish circle.
Under certain current conditions, turbulence can occur, making the dive very challenging.
Depth: 5–30 m
Current: weak to strong
Difficulty: easy to medium
Boat trip: 50 min
NITROX recommended
Nr. 35
CORAL BAY
Der Tauchplatz „Coral Bay“ liegt in einer geschützten Bucht. Das Riff fällt steil ab und formiert sich überwiegend aus Hartkorallen, darunter Geweihkorallen, Tischkorallen und Porenkorallen. Seefarne und Schwämme bringen Abwechslung ins Bild.
Schwarmfische fühlen sich hier ebenso gut aufgehoben wie Barsche, Süßlippen und Wimpelfische.
Ab etwa 25 Meter geht dass Riff in Sandgrund über, auf dem sich gerne Riffhaie und Rochen für eine Pause aufhalten.
Ein abwechslungsreicher Tauchgang, der für alle Ausbildungsstufen bestens geeignet ist.
Tiefe: 2–30 m
Strömung: keine bis schwach
Schwierigkeit: einfach bis mittel
Bootsfahrt: 50 min
No. 36
FINOLHU CORNER
North of the island of Eriyadhoo there is a sandbank in the interior of the atoll.
The dive begins at a steep wall, where at about 18 meters there is a beautiful overhang with glassfish. At about 30 meters, the wall transitions into a sandy area, often visited by whitetip reef sharks.
The dive then leads into the coral garden, formed by numerous hard coral species, including table and staghorn corals. It provides a perfect home for turtles, snappers, and fusiliers, as well as animals such as octopus. Nudibranchs, cleaner shrimp, tubeworms, and flatworms can also be found.
A dive site that is also ideal for macro photographers
Depth: 5–30 m
Current: weak to medium
Difficulty: easy to medium
Boat trip: 50 min
No. 37
FINOLHU GARDEN
This coral garden shares the sandbank with the Finolhu Corner dive site.
The reef slopes gently from five to over 30 meters. Here, countless beautifully overgrown coral blocks stand. Fusiliers, sweetlips, rays, and turtles make the dive site diverse and interesting.
Finolhu Garden could also be called the Snail Garden, as few other places are home to as many different nudibranchs as here. Divers sometimes hold a competition to see who can spot the most different species.
Stingrays sometimes burrow into the sand and whitetip reef sharks have also been spotted here.
Depth: 5–30 m
Current: weak to medium
Difficulty: easy to medium
Boat trip: 50 min
No. 38
THE WALL
This reef, which is over a kilometer long, is particularly suitable for drift diving when there is a light current.
This spectacular wall is sure to delight divers. It begins at a depth of just two meters and drops to 30 meters. This dive site is truly suitable for all divers: those who want to enjoy the colorful splendor at shallower depths will find it just as appealing as those who want to explore the bulges and overhangs in deeper zones.
In addition to the diversely vegetated reef itself, Napoleon wrasse, whitetip reef sharks and huge schools of schooling fish are impressive.
Depth: 5–30 m
Current: weak to medium
Difficulty: easy to medium
Boat trip: 40 min
No. 39
Eriyadhoo N/W Giri
Northwest of Eriyadhoo lies a giri that offers two dive sites; in stronger currents, they can be connected.
The eastern side is a large, very fish-rich hard coral garden that extends down to 40 meters into the channel. When the current is outward, we start on the southern side. Here, an incredible number of black corals grow, some of which are two meters long.
If you look closely, you can find ghost pipefish, longnose hawksbills, shrimp, moray eels, stonefish, and other small creatures. Eagle rays, whitetip reef sharks, and turtles are also not uncommon on this dive.
Depth: 0–30 m
Current: weak to strong
Difficulty: easy to medium
Boat trip: 40 min
No. 40
CORAL GARDEN
A spot with very beautiful and extensive coral formations that alternate with light sandy areas.
Because there is almost always no current, the dive is ideal for beginners and photographers.
The macro life on the reef is impressive, with mantis shrimp, a variety of nudibranchs, flatworms, and shrimp. The lush vegetation provides ideal camouflage for ghost pipefish, scorpionfish, and stonefish; overhangs and caves provide shelter for lionfish, moray eels, and lobsters. Schools of fusiliers and a strikingly large number of juvenile fish shoals can be found above the sandy areas of the reef.
Depth: 2–25 m
Current: none to weak
Difficulty: easy
Boat trip: 25 min
No. 41
LUCKY EXPRESS
Two densely and colorfully overgrown thilas north of Summer Island in the Eriyadhoo Channel.
One of the most challenging and challenging dive sites in the Maldives. But – as the name suggests – with luck, (almost) anything is possible here. Huge formations of eagle rays occasionally circle this reef, and large schools of fish and various shark species regularly visit.
When the current gets stronger, there's the opportunity to take advantage of the eddy created by the current and drift about 100 meters through the blue water from one thila to another. Jagged reef blocks teeming with coral offer protection from the currents and opportunities to search for smaller creatures.
The Lucky Express is a must-dive.
Depth: 15–30 m
Current: weak to very strong
Difficulty: medium to difficult
Boat trip: 40 min
NITROX recommended
No. 42
SHARK SLEEPING PLACE
Shark Sleeping Place is located in the entrance of the southern channel of Akirifushi Island.
A plateau approximately 120 meters wide extends into the channel at a depth of 30 meters, forming an extension of the outer reef. Here, in the middle of the channel, despite the hustle and bustle in front of your diving mask, it's worth keeping your eyes up: various large fish and even marlin can occasionally be seen here.
An absolute highlight of the spot is a large hard coral formation, which initially appears as a giant cloud of fish. Various species of snapper, sweetlips, and surgeonfish aren't the only visitors. Groupers, moray eels, and lobsters, however, make use of the niches in the reef.
From a moderate current, this dive site becomes more challenging and requires a descent in blue water.
Depth: 10–30 m
Current: weak to strong
Difficulty: easy to difficult
Boat trip: 45 min
NITROX recommended
No. 43
NORTH POINT
The dive site is located north of Summer Island.
The reef rises from a depth of 30 meters, ends just below the water surface and impresses with its coral diversity.
The dive begins in shallow water, about six to eight meters deep, where numerous coral formations are scattered among the light sand. The dive then descends to 18 to 20 meters, where rock crevices teeming with glassfish and moray eels can be admired. Upon ascent, the striking colors of the reef catch the eye, competing with the diversity of fish.
From tuna to individual sharks, turtles to yellow-striped fusiliers, and from soft to hard corals, you can see everything here. A dive that leaves nothing to be desired and is suitable and recommended for everyone.
Depth: 0–30 m
Current: weak
Difficulty: easy
Boat trip: 45 min
NITROX recommended
No. 44
AKIRIFUSHI KANDU
Drift dive north of Akirifushi.
Depending on the current, diving takes place either from the outer reef into the channel or vice versa. Both options promise a special experience. The channel features large overhangs covered in dense coral. Moray eels, lobsters, longnose hawksbills, stingrays, and nurse sharks can be found here.
When the current is incoming, schools of fusiliers, mackerel, surgeonfish, and batfish concentrate on the outer reef. Grey reef sharks, eagle rays, and Napoleon wrasse are not uncommon. With stronger currents, eddies form in the channel, and the dive can become challenging—something for current lovers.
Depth: 5–30 m
Current: weak to strong
Difficulty: easy to difficult
Boat trip: 50 min
NITROX recommended
No. 45
BARRACUDA POINT
Drift dive north of Akirifushi, combining outer reef and channel.
Large schools of snapper and jack are often found here. The numerous overhangs provide protected resting places for rays and nurse sharks. In the shallow areas of the reef, there's a good chance of encountering turtles and Napoleon wrasse, along with plenty of small creatures. Eagle rays and grey reef sharks patrolling the blue waters are regularly seen at this dive site. And last but not least, the barracudas, from which the site takes its name, are also found here.
Depth: 2–30 m
Current: weak to strong
Difficulty: easy to medium
Boat trip: 50 min
NITROX recommended
No. 46
BAT REEF
One of the most beautiful inner reef dives in the North Male Atoll and also one of its most interesting giris.
The steep wall, which slopes downwards in parts in the form of overhangs, is covered in vegetation. Countless caves and delicate archways have formed, providing a habitat for glassfish, lobsters, moray eels, and even small animals such as nudibranchs. With luck and a keen eye, you might even spot ghostfish and frogfish.
But it's also worth taking a look from the wall into the blue water every now and then. Snappers, surgeonfish, jacks, and even whitetip reef sharks can be found there; rays and dolphins are also not uncommon visitors to this reef.
Depth: 0–30 m
Current: weak
Difficulty: easy
Boat trip: 60 min
NITROX recommended