The northern Maldives atolls stretch from Baa Atoll north up to the Haa Alifu Atoll. The region sees fewer divers than its more southerly neighbours, ensuring diving away from the crowds.
The Baa Atoll is home to Hanifaru Bay, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve where exceptional numbers of reef manta rays aggregate annually to feed. A time when whale sharks are also observed feasting in the nutrient rich waters.
Resort based diving is possible on both the Baa, Raa & Llaviyani atolls, while liveaboards head to the area seasonally, due to the abundance of manta rays and whale sharks. Both resort dive centres and liveaboards visit Hanifaru Bay, where only snorkelling is allowed. In addition it's possible to stay in resort in the very northern reaches of the Maldives on the remote Haa Alifu Atoll.
This area of the Maldives sees fewer visitors and an incredible marine life. Expect plenty of big fish action, green and hawksbill turtles, sharks and so much more.
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
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
See more of the Maldives on this local island-hopping dive holiday. Enjoy authentic Maldivian hospitality and superb diving in Baa Atoll, with Hanifaru Bay mantas and vibrant reefs just moments away. Find Out More about Baa Atoll Island Hopping
Adventure into the hidden gem of Lhaviyani Atoll, with over 50 dive sites including channels, rich reefs, manta cleaning stations, and the odd wreck. This diverse atoll is waiting to be explored! Find Out More about Dive Lhaviyani Atoll
Join a marine biologist from the Manta Trust 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
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
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
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 about Barefoot Eco Resort
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 about Alila Kothaifaru
Nourish, charm, and inspire is the mantra at Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu Resort. Inside Baa Atoll UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, famed for manta rays, the resort offers rustic-elegant villas and rich marine life. Find Out More about Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu Resort
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 about Dhigali Maldives
Nestled between sandy roads and the local island's natural fauna is Island Luxury Dive Hotel. Ideal for divers seeking an authentic and simple Maldivian escape, seasonal manta rays, and fun reefs. Find Out More about Island Luxury Dive Hotel
Discover the Maldives differently at Island Luxury Retreat Maalhos, Baa Atoll, where a harmony of sustainability and cultural heritage has created a unique destination. Hanifaru’s manta rays await! Find Out More about Island Luxury Retreat Maalhos
With something for everyone, Kuredu Resort & Spa is a popular choice. Divers love the vibrant resort, diverse house reef, seasonal manta rays, and famous dive sites including Kuredu Express and Turtle Airport. Find Out More about Kuredu Resort & Spa
Derived from the word “beauty” in the native Dhivehi, Nala Maldives lets guests take it easy. In Lhaviyani Atoll, this island resort combines barefoot luxury with adventure and superb diving opportunities. Find Out More about Nala Maldives (formerly Innahura Maldives Resort)
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 about Reethi Faru Resort
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 about Royal Island Resort & Spa
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 about Reethi Beach Resort
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 about Carpe Vita
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 about M/Y Amba
The Spirit of Maldives is a purpose-built vessel designed with the divers at the forefront. Personal service and exceptional dining makes your Maldivian liveaboard experience exceptional. Find Out More about Spirit of Maldives
