Diving in North Ari Atoll (Alif Alif Atoll)

Explore diving in North Ari Atoll (Alif Alif Atoll)

With feeding manta rays, graceful whale sharks and schooling hammerheads, the Ari Atoll is a pelagic dream. Most of the dive sites here are not protected walls or coral reefs. Rather, the region favors thilas (pinnacles) and kandus (channels) perfect for drift diving. Because of the exposed nature of the atoll, currents can be quite strong.

Divers will delight in the schools of colorful fish, flying formations of eagle rays and even the occasional guitar shark. Fish Head, which is under marine protected status, is one of the best places in Ari Atoll for spotting sharks.

The pinnacle which plunges from 32-115 feet (10-35 meters) is covered in black coral bushes and dotted with caves and overhangs. Residents include up to 16 grey reef sharks and thousands of blueline snappers.

When to dive in North Ari Atoll (Alif Alif Atoll)

The best time to go diving in North Ari Atoll is between November and April, during the northeast monsoon (dry season) when the seas are calm, visibility ranges from 20 to 40 meters, and encounters with manta rays, whale sharks, and reef sharks are frequent. This period offers ideal conditions for drift and deep diving, making it the most popular time for divers. From May to October, the southwest monsoon brings stronger currents and occasional rain, but also plankton-rich waters, attracting manta rays and whale sharks. While visibility may be slightly lower, thrill-seekers can still enjoy action-packed drift dives. Overall, diving is possible year-round, but for the best marine life encounters and conditions, November to April is the optimal period.

Book your diving in North Ari Atoll (Alif Alif Atoll)

Common marine life sightings for North Ari Atoll (Alif Alif Atoll)

More Information

Male Velana International Airport is well served by flights originating in Europe, although a stop-over in the Middle East may be required. If coming from Asia, expect to stop in Sri Lanka before continuing on to Male.

If you’re staying on the Ari Atoll, you will need to transfer by seaplane (30 minutes), speedboat (1 hour) or by local ferry (4-6 hours).

Time Zone

UTC+05:00

Phone

+960

Currency

MVR

Voltage

230 V

Pressure

Bar (bar)

Plug

C, D, G, J, K, L

Languages

Divehi; Maldivian;, Italian, English

1st Stage

INT / Yoke / K

International airports

Velana Intl. (MLE)

Thanks, from PADI.

This page wouldn't be possible without contributions from the following PADI members: Scuba Journey, Noohiri Diving & Water Sport Center. Disclaimer

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