The Maldives ranks among the world's top diving destinations. Warm waters, incredible visibility, and abundant marine life – from manta rays to whale sharks – create underwater experiences that serious divers travel specifically to access.
Why Divers Choose Maldives
- Visibility: Often 30+ meters
- Water temperature: 27-30°C year-round
- Marine diversity: Mantas, whale sharks, reef sharks, turtles
- Variety: Channels, thilas (submerged reefs), walls
- Accessibility: House reefs at many resorts
Best Diving Seasons
Northeast Monsoon (December-April)
Best visibility, calmer seas on eastern atolls. Manta season in many areas.
Southwest Monsoon (May-November)
Better plankton activity attracting whale sharks. Western atolls calmer. Green season rates offset by excellent diving.
Top Dive Resorts
- Six Senses Laamu: Uncrowded sites, manta season excellence
- Amilla Fushi: UNESCO Biosphere Reserve location
- Vilamendhoo: Strong house reef, dive-focused
- Kandima Maldives: Value with excellent dive operation
Certification Levels
Maldives diving accommodates all levels:
- Beginners: Discover Scuba and Open Water courses
- Certified: Guided reef dives, channel dives
- Advanced: Deep dives, night dives, technical options
Liveaboards vs. Resort Diving
Resort-Based
Daily boat trips, comfortable accommodation, mix activities with diving.
Liveaboards
Multiple dives daily, access remote sites, immersive experience. Best for serious divers.
Maldives diving sells itself to enthusiasts. Match divers to appropriate resorts and seasons for optimal experiences.
