The 4 Atolls route
The 4 Atolls route offers a balanced and varied introduction to diving in the Maldives, making it a popular choice for first-time visitors. Covering multiple regions within the archipelago, this itinerary includes a mix of underwater environments—from reef slopes and coral pinnacles to open channels where larger marine species are often seen.
One of the key advantages of this route is its year-round suitability. While the Maldives has two distinct monsoon seasons—the dry season from November to April and the wet season from May to October—marine life remains active throughout the year. Sightings of manta rays and whale sharks are possible during both seasons, depending on the specific atolls visited.
Divers on this route will explore Thilas (underwater pinnacles rising from depths of 6 to 30–40 meters) and Farus (reef formations that reach the surface at all tides). These sites are known for their healthy coral cover, reef fish diversity, and the occasional appearance of macro species tucked into overhangs and crevices.
Another defining feature of this itinerary is the inclusion of Kandus—natural channels between islands where tidal currents flow into the atolls. These areas often attract pelagic species such as grey reef sharks, white-tip reef sharks, eagle rays, and jacks, especially during incoming currents.
Overall, the 4 Atolls route provides a varied diving experience, combining topography, marine life, and seasonal movement in a way that reflects the natural rhythm of the Maldives.
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
Upon arrival at Malé International Airport, Submaldives staff will greet you and assist with transfers.
Boarding begins around 12:00 PM on the liveaboard vessel.
After a welcome briefing and safety orientation, you’ll settle into your cabin and meet the crew.
A check dive will take place in the afternoon—a relaxed dive to get comfortable with your equipment, fine-tune buoyancy, and adjust to the environment.
Begin the day with a dive at Kanthila, a known manta station where mantas often gather for grooming by cleaner wrasses.
Continue to Maaya Thila, one of the Maldives’ most iconic dive sites, famous for night dives and white-tip reef shark sightings.
Visit the Fesdhoo Wreck, a photogenic site teeming with glassfish and macro life.
Optional night dive near the manta station to witness mantas gliding overhead in the glow of your dive lights—an unforgettable sight.
Kick off the morning at Fish Head, a dramatic thila known for grey reef sharks, snappers, and fusiliers.
Head to Moofushi Manta Point, another place where mantas congregate seasonally.
In the afternoon, travel to Maamigili, located in South Ari Atoll—a hotspot for whale shark encounters.
End the day with a special beach BBQ dinner on a nearby sandbank or deserted island (weather permitting).
Dive Dhigga Thila, a vibrant coral-covered pinnacle with schools of reef fish and the occasional eagle ray passing by.
Continue to Rah’Dhigga Thila, known for its healthy soft corals and overhangs full of macro life.
Finish with Rangali Reef, often visited by turtles, tunas, and the occasional reef shark. This site also features excellent visibility and beautiful hard coral structures.
- This day is focused on larger pelagics and high-current dives.
- Expect exciting encounters with grey reef sharks, eagle rays depending on the site and season.
- Visit Miyaru Kandu, one of the top channel dives in the Maldives, famous for shark sightings and strong currents that attract big fish.
- Afternoon dive at Alimathaa Reef, known for its coral plateau and abundance of schooling fish.
- Alimathaa Jetty night dive: a highlight of the trip where dozens of nurse sharks, stingrays, and giant trevalliesgather in the shallow waters near the pier. A must-do experience for underwater photographers and thrill-seekers alike.
Kandooma Thila starts the day—a stunning site featuring soft corals, overhangs, and plenty of action with white-tip sharks, jacks, and eagle rays.
Head to Emboodhoo Express, a fast-paced drift dive through a channel with strong currents and high fish density.
Final dive at Hulhumale Neru, a deep blue dive where lucky divers may spot tiger sharks, hammerheads, bull sharks, and guitarfish. This site is for advanced divers comfortable at 30m+ depths.
Included
Transfer to and from the International Airport
Welcome drinks on arrival
Accommodation in double occupancy rooms with en-suite bathrooms
Full board meals including breakfast, lunch and dinner, and some snacks.
Tea and American coffee making facilities
Total 18 dives including night dives
Dive Master, 12L dive tanks, weights and weight belts.
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
Explore other routes
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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