If scuba diving in Maldives is not on your bucket list, it absolutely should be! With its crystal-clear waters, thriving coral reefs, and a spellbinding array of marine life, it’s the perfect destination for first-time divers. Here’s more about what you should know.
Where to Stay
Pick one of the private Maldives beach resorts with a dedicated dive centre that offers training, certifications, and trips to the best dive spots. Consider properties like NH Collection Maldives Havodda Resort at the Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll, known for its rich marine biodiversity. What’s more, such Green Growth 2050-certified resorts have adopted sustainable measures and engage in coral restoration initiatives too.
The Ideal Season
The Maldives is a year-round diving haven, but the dry season (December to April) is the ‘golden’ period; clear skies, calm seas, and superb visibility make it unbeatable. That said, you can still enjoy diving here during the wet season (May to November) and in some areas, it is the optimal period to spot creatures like manta rays. So, whatever the month, there’s magic beneath the waves!
What to Expect
Get ready for a marine spectacle like no other. You can come across everything from reef fish like clownfish and parrotfish to larger denizens of the deep including green turtles, barracudas and blacktip reef sharks. You also have a chance to swim beside majestic manta rays and huge whale sharks, while colourful coral and sunken shipwrecks add to the allure of underwater discoveries.
Things to Keep in Mind
Take your time during training because mastering the basics is key. Always heed your instructor’s or guide’s advice, and do not rush. Ensure you use reef-safe sunscreen in the water, and never break coral or disturb marine life. Do you have an underwater camera? Bring it! If not, see if your resort rents one, because you will want to capture this otherworldly beauty.