3 recommended locations.Please contact us for further suggestions.
The central region comprises Malé and Ari Atolls, Felidhoo, Faafu and the smaller Rasdhoo Atoll. It is the most popular area for both dive resorts and liveaboards, with excellent shore diving from house reefs and large pelagics on drift dives.
Find Out More about Central Atolls
Ideal for viewing: whale shark, grey reef shark, Napoleon wrasse, spotted eagle ray, reef manta ray
Excellent for: Liveaboard diving, Resort based diving, Group diving, Shark diving, Whale shark, Manta ray, Learn to dive, Shore diving, Snorkelling, Underwater photography
This remote region receives fewer visitors than the rest of the Maldives and stretches from Baa Atoll up to Haa Alifu and Dhallu and includes Lhaviyani and Noonu atolls, as well as Hanifaru Bay, where exceptional numbers of mantas and whale sharks aggregate annually.
Find Out More about Northern Atolls
Ideal for viewing: green turtle, hawksbill turtle, Napoleon wrasse, grey reef shark, reef manta ray
Excellent for: Liveaboard diving, Resort based diving, Shore diving, Snorkelling
This region has few resorts, and consequently is best explored by liveaboard. Diving itineraries focus on the pristine and unexplored atolls of Meemu, Thaa, Laamu and in season, Huvadhoo Atoll, which is one of the Maldives' premier shark diving locations.
Find Out More about Southern Atolls
Ideal for viewing: scalloped hammerhead shark, reef manta ray, grey reef shark, Napoleon wrasse, tiger shark
The stunning and luxurious islands of the Maldives offer exceptional diving opportunities which can be explored whilst staying at a resort, island hopping, or on a liveaboard diving trip. The Maldives are home to world-class dive locations suitable for those wanting to learn, and for well-seasoned divers.
16 recommended trips.Our trip ideas are offered to inspire you and can be tailored to suit your requirements.
This trip idea is a great option for those looking to get away and unwind. The tropical paradise of North Malé Atoll is easily accessible and offers diving for all abilities, with coral gardens, wrecks and plenty of marine life.
Find Out More about Visit the Maldives
When to go: Jan-Dec
Duration inc. flights: 9 days
Price inc. flights: From £2,495 pp
Trip type:
Tailor-made trip idea
The Best of Maldives itineraries are a firm favourite amongst divers of all abilities, with a choice of vessels and durations. Highlights include manta cleaning stations, whale shark encounters and mesmerising drift dives.
Find Out More about Best of Maldives Liveaboard
When to go: Jan-Dec
Duration inc. flights: 9 days
Price inc. flights: From £2,595 pp
Trip type: LiveaboardGroup
trip
Join marine conservationist and cameraman Danny Copeland on an extended liveaboard adventure to the northern atolls of the Maldives. Timed to visit Hanifaru Bay when the reef manta ray aggregation is at its peak.
Find Out More about Maldives Manta Ray Extravaganza
When to go: Sep
Duration inc. flights: 13 days
Price inc. flights: From £3,650 pp
Trip type: LiveaboardGroup
trip
Divers return again and again to the popular dive sites of the South Ari Atoll, Maldives, for photo opportunities of healthy reefs, prolific marine life and large pelagic encounters including turtles, sharks and rays.
Find Out More about Ari Atoll Diving Experience
When to go: Jan-Dec
Duration inc. flights: 9 days
Price inc. flights: From £3,095 pp
Trip type:
Tailor-made trip idea
Designed to ensure a captivating mix of underwater highlights and enchanting topside experiences, discover the Maldives and Sri Lanka on a twin-centre holiday like no other, available throughout the year.
Find Out More about Discover Maldives & Sri Lanka
When to go: Jan-Dec
Duration inc. flights: 16 days
Price inc. flights: From £4,095 pp
Trip type:
Tailor-made trip idea
Visit these legendary Maldivian atolls by liveaboard between August and October, when they become a playground for feeding manta rays and whale sharks, putting on a spectacular show for visitors at Hanifaru Bay.
Find Out More about Baa & Raa Atolls Liveaboard
When to go: Aug-Oct
Duration inc. flights: 9 days
Price inc. flights: From £3,195 pp
Trip type: Liveaboard
trip
Explore world-class dive sites from the comfort of a liveaboard, followed by a few days relaxation in a resort on North Malé Atoll. Highlights include manta ray and whale shark encounters in the central atolls.
Find Out More about Maldives Dive Safari
When to go: Jan-Dec
Duration inc. flights: 13 days
Price inc. flights: From £2,845 pp
Trip type: Liveaboard
trip
Escape the crowds to the southern Atolls of the Maldives for an exceptional liveaboard experience with an air of discovery and plenty of shark encounters, including grey reef, hammerhead and silky.
Find Out More about Southern Maldives Liveaboard
When to go: Jan-Mar
Duration inc. flights: 10 days
Price inc. flights: From £3,795 pp
Trip type: Liveaboard
trip
Dive away from the crowds in the Baa Atoll, home to only a handful of resorts. The diversity of marine life is incredible and sightings of manta rays and whale sharks are common in season.
Find Out More about Dive Baa Atoll
When to go: May-Oct
Duration inc. flights: 10 days
Price inc. flights: From £2,995 pp
Trip type:
Tailor-made trip idea
Step off the beach and into the crystal waters of this Indian Ocean paradise. Famous for its house reef, vibrant marine life, and wonderful accommodation, The Maldives’ South Ari Atoll is a snorkelling gem.
Find Out More about Ari Atoll Snorkelling Experience
When to go: Jan-Dec
Duration inc. flights: 9 days
Price inc. flights: From £2,495 pp
Trip type:
Tailor-made trip idea
A world-class destination, the Maldives offer the perfect conditions to learn to dive, with crystal clear blue waters, protected lagoons and prolific reef life. Choose from a number of resorts, guesthouses and dive centres.
Find Out More about Learn to Dive Maldives
When to go: Jan-Dec
Duration inc. flights: 9 days
Price inc. flights: From £2,345 pp
Trip type:
Tailor-made trip idea
Renowned for big animal encounters, the South Ari Atoll is one of the most popular locations for divers to visit throughout the year and boasts some of the most famous dive sites in the Maldives.
Find Out More about BIG in the Maldives
When to go: Oct-Mar
Duration inc. flights: 9 days
Price inc. flights: From £3,345 pp
Trip type:
Tailor-made trip idea
Experience the camaraderie, exceptional diving and megafauna encounters on our small group departure to the Maldives’ South Ari Atoll. Based at the Maldives’ smallest dive resort, this is a chance to relax, unwind and dive.
Find Out More about Maldives Whale Shark Extravaganza
When to go: Jan-Dec
Duration exc. flights: 8 days
Price exc. flights: From £2,795 pp
Trip type: Group
trip
Dive local on the Haa Alifu Atoll - a unique holiday experience with world-class diving opportunities. Discover an untouched area of the Maldives and learn about this secret paradise from the locals.
Find Out More about Untouched Maldives
When to go: Jan-Dec
Duration inc. flights: 10 days
Price inc. flights: From £2,695 pp
Trip type:
Tailor-made trip idea
Staying at guesthouses on local islands allows you to dive the same sites for less, while experiencing more of the local life of the Maldives, adding a new dimension to your holiday.
Find Out More about Maldives Island Hopping Adventure
When to go: Jan-Dec
Duration inc. flights: 9 days
Price inc. flights: From £2,095 pp
Trip type:
Tailor-made trip idea
Working alongside conservationists, these snorkelling-focused departures offer the chance to encounter manta rays or whale sharks with the opportunity to participate in citizen science projects.
Find Out More about Maldives Snorkelling Conservation Cruise
When to go: Jan-Dec
Duration inc. flights: 9 days
Price inc. flights: From £2,545 pp
Trip type: Liveaboard
trip
When to go
The Maldives weather is influenced by two monsoons. Marine life is excellent throughout the year.
Seasons
Southwest monsoon
May to Nov: During the southwest season, resorts with access to sites on the west side of the atolls offer the most spectacular diving
Northeast monsoon
Dec to Apr: The northeast monsoon brings fast currents, superb visibility and prolific marine life on the eastern side of the atolls
Wildlife events
Dec to Apr:
Manta rays commonly found on west side of atolls
May to Nov:
Manta rays commonly found on east side of atolls
Aug to Sep:
Whale sharks and manta rays gather around the Baa Atoll
Mar to Apr:
Currents abate – the best time for a leisurely dive
Dive Resorts
21 recommended places to stay.Please contact us for further suggestions.
A tiny island located on the northwest side of the North Malé Atoll, Eriyadu is surrounded by a fine white sand beach and a crystal clear lagoon, and is ideal for those seeking a ‘get-away-from-it-all’ holiday.
Find Out More
Located on the unspoilt Faafu Atoll, and with an on site dive centre, the 4-star Filitheyo Resort is a popular choice for divers and snorkellers looking for big marine encounters and a relaxing time in paradise.
Find Out More
Surrounded by a fringing reef and infinite blue ocean, this tranquil 4-star resort is a stunning tropical bio-luxury island paradise located in the middle of the southern Raa Atoll. Divers can expect big fish action here.
Find Out More
Surrounded by lush tropical vegetation, swaying palm trees, a 900 metre long white sand beach and a turquoise lagoon, this resort in the South Ari Atoll is popular amongst the diving community.
Find Out More
The unique location of this island sets it apart from others on the North Malé Atoll. Club Rannalhi is an all inclusive resort located off the southern tip offering visitors an idyllic island hideaway.
Find Out More
A tropical hideaway, this all inclusive 4-star resort is located on Hudhuran Fushi island on the eastern edge of the North Malé Atoll, and offers plenty of facilities for divers before or after their liveaboard holiday.
Find Out More
Located on the remote Raa Atoll, this private island 5-star resort offers guests a spacious hideaway embraced by the wonders of nature, and an incredible underwater world full of surprises.
Find Out More
Located on the South Ari Atoll, surrounded by white sand, a crystal clear lagoon and a house reef for snorkelling and diving, this relaxed island paradise is the perfect choice for a romantic break.
Find Out More
Located on the North Malé Atoll, this popular resort in the Maldives is a short boat transfer from Malé yet a million miles away from busy everyday life. Accommodation varies from cosy classic rooms to luxurious water villas.
Find Out More
Located within an almost untouched forest on the local island of Hanimadhoo in the northern atolls, this boutique resort sits alongside a stunning turquoise lagoon and offers the perfect combination of privacy and relaxation.
Find Out More
Ideally located at the southern tip of South Ari Atoll, this intimate dive resort of just six rooms is a great option for those looking for excellent diving with a local twist. It's in a perfect spot for whale shark encounters.
Find Out More
Situated on a small, densely forested island in the remote Raa Atoll, this premium all-inclusive resort offers a luxurious, innovative escape and adventure for all the family, in an idyllic setting.
Find Out More
Ellaidhoo Maldives by Cinnamon is an activity packed resort with accommodation designed to pamper guests. It is located on Ellaidhoo Reef on the eastern fringe of North Ari, the largest of the Maldives’ atolls.
Find Out More
This 5-star luxury resort is located on Dhidhoofinolhu Island, on the South Ari Atoll. The island is surrounded by a magnificent sheltered lagoon, with an infinite wealth of marine life.
Find Out More
Surrounded by uninhabited islands, this 4-star eco-friendly resort offers divers the opportunity to explore the Baa Atoll and relax on isolated beaches – the perfect Maldivian retreat
Find Out More
This unique retreat is located on the local island of Gan and is perfect for exploring the remote and untouched Laamu Atoll, where divers will find numerous undiscovered reefs and an abundance of macro life.
Find Out More
A luxurious oasis in the Baa Atoll, Royal Island Resort & Spa is located just a few minutes from Hanifaru Bay. This 5-star resort offers a tropical paradise and incredible underwater experiences.
Find Out More
Located on the North Malé Atoll, this small resort offers a peaceful getaway and a great house reef. Accommodation is in thatched beach bungalows or modern water bungalows built over the turquoise lagoon.
Find Out More
Located on the Rasdhoo Atoll, surrounded by a beautiful lagoon and long stretches of white sandy beach, Veligandu Island Resort is the perfect getaway for those seeking something special.
Find Out More
Nestled on the charming island of Nalaguraidhoo in the South Ari Atoll, this fun, relaxed, family friendly resort is ideal for divers who like their marine life big and their holidays in paradise.
Find Out More
Take it easy at Innahura Maldives resort, an unpretentious gem in the Lhaviyani Atoll. The island resort combines an informal, fun atmosphere with superb diving opportunities for the young at heart.
Find Out More
Liveaboards
14 recommended liveaboards.
Please contact us
for further suggestions or search for liveaboard availability.
Operating unique and exclusive itineraries to the far reaches of the Maldives, this comfortable vessel is suited to divers who enjoy extended diving adventures to a variety of spectacular locations.
Find Out More
This highly respected Maldivian liveaboard accommodates up to 24 divers in comfort and style. She operates itineraries in the central Maldives for much of the year, heading to the south between December and April.
Find Out More
Part of the Emperor Fleet, this stylish, modern liveaboard offers weekly itineraries year round to the some of the best diving spots in the Maldives, including the southern atolls in season.
Find Out More
The contemporary MV Emperor Explorer liveaboard is making waves in the Maldives, offering stylish and spacious accommodation for 26 divers on itineraries around the Central and Southern Atolls.
Find Out More
This traditional Maldivian vessel comfortably accommodates 18 guests. She spends most of the year delivering exceptional diving itineraries in the Central Atolls, with occasional trips to the deep south for shark encounters.
Find Out More
Departing weekly from Malé, this modern purpose-built liveaboard explores some of the best dive sites in the Maldives. Diving is from the accompanying 20 metre long, customised dhoni.
Find Out More
The luxurious twin vessels of Scubaspa Ying and Yang offer a unique liveaboard experience, visiting the popular sites of the Maldives. Enjoy a week of fantastic diving or relaxing spa treatments, or a mix of both.
Find Out More
This contemporary, spacious liveaboard has been purpose built, offering exceptional standards and facilities, bringing a class of her own to Maldivian waters. Dive the best sites throughout the year from here.
Find Out More
Experience both the classic central and seasonal southern atoll itineraries on board the luxurious Maldives Blue Force One liveaboard. The week long trips are suited to divers seeking exceptional pelagic encounters.
Find Out More
This traditional Maldivian vessel comfortably accommodates 16 guests offering a choice of itineraries in the Central and Southern Atolls, encapsulating the best marine life encounters in season.
Find Out More
Sophisticated and exclusive, the M/Y Duke of York liveaboard cruises the central and southern atolls of the Maldives throughout the year, as well as offering exclusive Manta Trust conservation trips.
Find Out More
A home away from home, the comfortable Carpe Diem liveaboard offers superb week long diving and snorkelling experiences in the central atolls of the Maldives throughout the year.
Find Out More
The latest edition to the Carpe Diem fleet, the luxurious Carpe Novo cruises the very best sites of the central and southern atolls of the Maldives throughout the year, offering exceptional service and diving experiences.
Find Out More
The flagship vessel of its small fleet offers unique itineraries based on the best pelagic migration patterns around the central atolls in the Maldives, accompanied by a custom built diving dhoni.
Find Out More
Availability
Search for your ideal departure below, and then
enquire to confirm availability and book.