Hanifaru special mantas
This 7-night diving itinerary is designed for those interested in manta rays and the diverse marine life of the Maldives. The route includes dives in Baa Atoll, Ari Atoll, North Malé, and Rasdhoo, covering a variety of underwater environments such as channels, thilas, and coral reefs.
Divers may encounter a range of shark species, including grey reef sharks, whitetip reef sharks, nurse sharks, guitar sharks, tiger sharks, bull sharks, lemon sharks, hammerheads, and whale sharks. Manta rays can be observed during both day and night dives, particularly at known cleaning stations.
A key feature of the itinerary is a visit to Hanifaru Bay, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. Under the right moon phase and current conditions, this bay becomes a seasonal aggregation site where large numbers of manta rays feed, sometimes alongside whale sharks. It is one of the most significant sites in the world for observing this behavior.
What makes this route special
Airport Pickup & Drop-off
Jacuzzi
En-suite bathroom
Full Board Meals
BBQ on a Picnic
Handline Fishing
Programme
Note: The itinerary can be changed by the guides during the cruise or due to climate events
Arrival at Male Airport (Maldives). Transfer to the boat (boarding approximately at 11:00 AM). Introduction of the crew, briefing, and cabin assignment. Generally, the route starts towards North Male or North Ari, and we usually have a dive in the afternoon.
We explore the most spectacular thilas in North Ari, such as Battala Thila and Fish Head, renowned for their biodiversity and the presence of large schools of fish and reef sharks.
At dusk, we will enjoy a special dive in Fesdu Bay, where we can witness mantas feeding in the darkness—a truly unique experience.
We head north to Rashdoo Madivaru, where we will dive in channels and coral reefs, areas known for frequent encounters with reef sharks, rays, and schools of tropical fish.
We venture into Baa Atoll, a fully protected marine reserve famous for its thilas and manta cleaning stations. For two days, we will monitor conditions for the opportunity to enter Hanifaru Bay, a UNESCO-protected sanctuary, where we can snorkel among dozens or even hundreds of feeding mantas—a truly breathtaking experience.
We begin our journey back to North Male, exploring reefs teeming with marine life. In this area, it is possible to spot eagle rays, large schools of fish, and other pelagic species in their natural habitat.
To end the cruise on a high note, we will complete two dives at the iconic Shark Tank, a dive site that amazes every diver. Here, you can encounter bull sharks, lemon sharks, the giant great hammerhead shark, spinner sharks, guitarfish, and stingrays. An unforgettable dive that will make you want to return to the Maldives.
Included
Transfer to and from the Domestic Airport
Welcome drinks on arrival
Accommodation in double occupancy rooms with en-suite bathrooms
Full board meals including breakfast, lunch, dinner and some snacks.
Tea and American coffee making facilities
Total 17 dives including night dives
Dive Master, 12L dive tanks, weights and belt.
BBQ on a picnic island, if the weather permits (extra $10 USD)
Local handline fishing
All the facilities onboard including a jacuzzi
T-GST 17%
Excluded
International and domestic flight tickets
Diving and Snorkeling Equipment’s
Soft drinks and alcoholic beverages
Additional diving equipment/accessories (can be hired on rent from the diving facility of the cruise. The guests should make the requests 14 days before arrival)
Dive courses
Dive insurance (Mandatory)
Travel insurance (Recommended)
Fuel surcharges where applicable
Sports & Big game fishing available on speedboat with equipment for additional charges
Wi-Fi - internet cards are available at the airport with better range
Contact us
Our team at Submaldives is ready to resolve any doubt you might have—whether it’s about dive sites, trip planning, equipment, or availability. We're here to make your diving experience in Maldives smooth and unforgettable.
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