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How to describe the underwater experience of Maldives? Pristine. Lush. Vibrant. Extraordinary. These are the only words that come close. Uninhabited islands and waters zealously guarded by Maldivians from commercial fishing provide shelter for dazzling aquatic species in stunning numbers, awaiting discovery by divers aboard Manthiri.
Our garland-shaped chain of 26 atolls, stretching 750 kilometers across the Indian Ocean southwest of India, forms a strikingly diverse eco-system. This unique habitat acts as a magnet for exuberant marine life. Our emerald islands, ringed with coral and numbering more 1,190 in the archipelago, house species that run the gamut from blooming corals to big pelagics. It’s not simply the variety and drama of the species but also their sheer numbers that will astonish you. Friendly encounters with fish in the thousands, from the tiniest to the tremendous, are common experiences on the varied dive sites.
In Maldives, a decade-long commitment to preserving marine resources results in unsurpassed diving experiences. Armed with the expertise and in-depth knowledge of our expert dive guides, each tour underwater is a treat.
Water temperature in Maldives is an almost uniform 83º F to 85º F (28ºC to 29ºC), making dives at any time a delight. Sea breezes command two distinct seasons in Maldives, which enjoys the luxury of being a year-round dive destination. Southwest winds in May through October bring days of sunny weather, punctuated by brief spells of refreshing rainfall and occasional gusts. From December to April northeast winds herald drier months, when initial gusting winds calm, to bring clear and bright blue skies. November and April, by and large, are inter-season months, when the prevailing wind determines the climate.
Visibility in either season is equally spectacular and, depending on current and sea conditions, can exceed 100 feet. With depths of 80 to 60 feet common all year, views of fish life are fabulous regardless of the season. Keep in mind that the winter season in the northeast marks the busiest months in any tropical island paradise. Book early, as our warm sun, clear seas, and amazing dive experiences become the mid-winter fantasy of many tourists from colder climates.
Skipper Ibrahim and dive instructor Moosa, exploring the region since their teens, have gained an uncanny intimacy with the local waters, navigating our guests to exclusive dive spots unknown to other operations.
Safety is a primary concern on both of our vessels, so oxygen and essential first aid needs, although rarely needed, are handy on both vessels. Maldives is a renowned dive destination, so a recompression chamber and a hyberbaric doctor are handily accessible on Bandos Island, North Malé Atoll, close to the Airport, Kuramathi in North Ari, and Kureddu further north in Fadippolhu Atoll.
Visibility in either season is equally spectacular and, depending on current and sea conditions, can exceed 100 feet. With depths of 80 to 60 feet common all year, views of fish life are fabulous regardless of the season. Keep in mind that the winter season in the northeast marks the busiest months in any tropical island paradise. Book early, as our warm sun, clear seas, and amazing dive experiences become the mid-winter fantasy of many tourists from colder climates.
Skipper Ibrahim and dive instructor Moosa, exploring the region since their teens, have gained an uncanny intimacy with the local waters, navigating our guests to exclusive dive spots unknown to other operations.
Safety is a primary concern on both of our vessels, so oxygen and essential first aid needs, although rarely needed, are handy on both vessels. Maldives is a renowned dive destination, so a recompression chamber and a hyberbaric doctor are handily accessible on Bandos Island, North Malé Atoll, close to the Airport, Kuramathi in North Ari, and Kureddu further north in Fadippolhu Atoll. |
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