Gaafu Atoll, comprising Gaafu Alifu (North Huvadhoo) and Gaafu Dhaalu (South Huvadhoo), is among the Maldives’ largest and most remote atolls. Renowned for its pristine dive sites, this atoll offers diverse marine environments that cater to both novice and seasoned divers. Here are some of the standout dive sites in Gaafu Atoll:
Nilandhoo Kandu
Located in Gaafu Alifu, Nilandhoo Kandu is celebrated for its exhilarating drift dives. Divers can encounter strong currents that attract a variety of marine life, including grey reef sharks, silky sharks, barracudas, eagle rays, and turtles. The optimal diving period is from January to April, when water temperatures hover around 28-30°C.
Kooddoo Channel
Situated near Kooddoo Island, this channel is a hotspot for shark enthusiasts. Divers frequently observe grey reef sharks, black-tip oceanic sharks, and occasionally hammerhead sharks. The proximity of this site to resorts like Mercure Kooddoo allows for convenient access, making it a favored ‘house dive’ location.
Meradhoo Kandu
Adjacent to the island of Meradhoo, this channel dive is renowned for its vibrant coral formations and diverse marine life. Divers can expect encounters with pelagic species such as tunas, barracudas, eagle rays, and white-tip sharks. The southern side of the outer reef serves as the typical starting point, allowing for a drift dive into the atoll.
Kuda Hafsa Thila
This small pinnacle, with its top reef at approximately 10-12 meters, offers thrilling diving experiences. Despite its modest size, the thila attracts a plethora of marine life, including various shark species. Due to potential strong currents, it’s advisable for advanced divers to explore this site.
Rahadhoo Channel
Reserved for experienced divers due to its strong currents, Rahadhoo Channel promises encounters with sharks and eagle rays. The dynamic environment ensures that each dive offers unique sightings, making it a must-visit for thrill-seekers.
Manemas Thila
A haven for macro enthusiasts, Manemas Thila boasts a sandy slope inhabited by garden eels and oceanic triggerfish. The top reef functions as a cleaning station frequented by batfish, and divers might also spot stonefish concealed within cracks.
Short Cut Channel
This narrow channel dive begins at the outer reef, characterized by a wall adorned with branching and table corals. Divers often encounter leopard sharks and stingrays resting in sandy areas, along with Napoleon wrasses, tunas, and hawksbill turtles. A strong incoming current can lead to sightings of dense schools of big-eye trevally, black-tip sharks, and giant groupers.
Diving Conditions and Recommendations
The prime diving season in Gaafu Atoll aligns with the Northeast Monsoon, spanning from January to May. During this period, divers can anticipate excellent visibility and favorable conditions. However, certain dive sites, especially channels with robust currents, are best suited for advanced divers. It’s essential to dive with reputable local operators who possess intimate knowledge of these sites to ensure safety and optimal experiences.
Gaafu Atoll’s dive sites remain relatively untouched, offering divers the chance to explore vibrant coral reefs, encounter diverse marine species, and experience the Maldives’ underwater splendor in its most authentic form.
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