Maldives diving seasons
The key to a successful Maldivian diving holiday lies in being aware of the annual weather patterns. During the southwest season (May-Nov) the most spectacular diving is found at resorts with access to dive sites on the west of the atoll where you're likely to encounter larger pelagics such as grey reef and hammerhead sharks.
During the Maldivian summer (Dec-Apr) the northeast season brings fast currents, superb visibility and prolific marine life on the eastern side of the atolls. The currents usually die down by March making this a great time for a more leisurely dive.
Although being on the 'wrong' side may mean less visibility there is compensation in having the best chance of Manta Ray and Whale Shark encounters during your dive.
There are four types of dive sites to familiarise yourself with; Kandu is the deep cut in the atoll rim where strong currents are common; Faru is a circular reef rising from the ocean floor found in the channel; Thila's and Giri's are coral reefs formed inside the atolls.
To find out more about tailor-making your perfect diving holiday, visit our Maldives section
