Maldives Itineraries:
Southern Route - Huvadhoo Atoll
DURATION: 10 nights
PORTS: Kaadedhdhoo to Kaadedhdhoo
MARINE PARK FEES: 80 EURO per person to be paid onboard in cash.
QUALIFICATION NEEDED: PADI Open water or equivalent - no minimum number of logged dives required.
This 10 night itinerary allows up to 32 dives, including 5 night dives, and concentrates on exploring the channels and shallow reefs of Huvadhoo Atoll in the far south of the Maldivian archipelago.
Reach Kaadedhdhoo via short domestic flight from Male.
Departing from and returning to Kaadedhdhoo, this safari takes you around the entire circumference of and into the heart of this atoll. Heading first along the western edge to the very south, for the opportunity of seeing tiger sharks as they venture into the channels. The vessel then moves eastwards and stops at a variety of channels where reef sharks, eagle rays and anemone fish can be found. Further north on the eastern side of the atoll you may encounter large schools of tunas, jacks and snappers, along with colourful coral groupers, angelfish, puffers and trigger fish. In the far north it's time for more shark action with grey reef and white tips found at Vilingili Kandu. You then venture inside the atoll to explore the coral gardens. The scenery above water rivals that of the underwater and it's a great opportunity to take the kayaks out for a paddle. Your final dives will be on the western side with gentle drifts around Bazu Thila before disembarking on day 11 for the return flight to Male.
Diving Highlights:
Vaadhoo Kuda Kandu: This is where to keep a look out for tiger sharks. The unspoiled reefs here are home to an amazing array of fish life and the colourful corals are a real delight.
Maarehaa Kandu: Shark sightings are what attract divers to this narrow channel. Grey reef and white tips can be seen in large numbers and eagle rays cruise by too. You will most likely make 2 dives in this channel as the marine life is simply fantastic.
Kurehdhoo Island: This island is small but offers awesome diving experiences. Colourful angel fish, groupers, butterfly fish, banner fish and trigger fish and all out in huge numbers. Large pelagics can also be seen within the channel but it's hard to leave the reef wall - it's so stunning!
Vilingili Reef: Offering a fantastic night dive experience. Octopus, devil fish, tiny crustaceans and numerous molluscs can all be found over the sand and clinging to corals.
Want to go? Check out availability on this itinerary HERE >>>
Itinerary Map:
Thanks to (
Dray Van Beeck) for providing the featured underwater images.