Enjoy spectacular diving in the Baa, Raa and Lhaviyani atolls as well as snorkelling in Hanifaru Bay during the annual reef manta ray aggregation. This exclusive, expert led liveaboard adventure to the Maldives is a must for megafauna enthusiasts, and is supported by the Manta Trust.
Led by a marine biologist and manta ray expert from the Manta Trust, this group trip is timed to coincide with the peak aggregation of reef manta rays at Hanifaru Bay in the Baa Atoll.
Enjoy an extended unique liveaboard itinerary diving the Baa, Raa and Lhaviyani atolls where fish outnumber visitors and encounters with manta rays and whale sharks are high on the agenda. Join like-minded enthusiasts and have your cameras ready to capture some magical moments!
Typical Itinerary
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Day 1:
Depart the UK
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Day 2:
Arrive Maldives and hop on board
You will be met on arrival and transferred to the
Seascape liveaboard. Spend the rest of the day settling in and meeting your fellow travellers.
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Days 3-11
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Dive & Discover the Northern Atolls; Manta Ray Extravaganza at Hanifaru Bay
This exclusive 11-night itinerary is planned to include the best diving sites in the Baa, Raa and Lhaviyani atolls. Enjoy 2-3 dives a day exploring the diverse sites in these rarely visited atolls. Expect plenty of big fish action, green and hawksbill turtles, Napoleon wrasse, and a huge variety and numbers of reef fish and critters. As well as channel diving, the seascape here includes reefs and overhangs, home to an abundance of marine life.
During the week your onboard Manta Trust marine biologist will provide evening presentations about the ecology, behaviour, and conservation of the Maldivian reef manta rays.
The itinerary is timed during the annual aggregation, specifically around the time of the full moon when reef manta ray numbers and feeding activity are at their peak. Under expert guidance you will have the opportunity to encounter these majestic creatures in the water as well as the know how on best photography practises. Guests are encouraged to help as citizen scientists by uploading images and sighting information to IDtheManta database, contributing to research and conservation efforts.
Hanifaru Bay is an UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. Visits are regulated and only snorkelling activity is allowed. This is the best way to experience a close encounter with these graceful creatures, creating everlasting memories.
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Day 12:
Disembark and head home
After an exceptional time discovering the northern atolls, enjoying encounters with, and learning more about reef manta rays, it is time to say your goodbyes. Those heading home will transfer back to the airport in Malé. It is also possible to extend your diving holiday on a tailor-made basis.
Contact the Dive team to discuss your options.
Please note: The above itinerary is a sample only and is subject to change at the captain’s discretion. Prices are based on a twin-share cabin.
