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Diving Holiday
Diving in the Maldives offers a range of options and experiences for divers of all levels. Here are some key points to consider:
Diving Programs: The Maldives offers fantastic diving opportunities, including drift dives and scooter dives at reefs and thilas (underwater pinnacles). Nitrox is often available for free, and if you do not have a Nitrox certification, you can complete the course at a reasonable price. You can learn to dive easily in the Maldives, starting with relaxed dives at the house reef or lagoon, followed by boat trips for beginners. Diving centers typically teach in small groups, with a maximum of two students per instructor.
Diving Conditions: The Maldives supplies excellent diving conditions for both beginners and experienced divers. Beginners can explore dive sites with soft corals, gentle slopes, and abundant tropical fish. Experienced divers have opportunities for night dives, drift dives along steep walls, caves, rocks, and even diving on shipwrecks. Countless unexplored reefs await diving enthusiasts in the Maldives.
Resort Reefs and Scuba Safaris: Most resorts in the Maldives are surrounded by small reefs, allowing direct access to snorkeling and diving. If you prefer to explore beyond the resort’s house reef, you can join a scuba safari on a traditional Maldivian boat called a Dhoni, which takes you to remote reefs.
Diving Courses: The Maldives offers unlimited opportunities for beginners to learn to dive. Introductory diving courses, including test dives, are commonly available, allowing you to decide if diving is the right sport for you. Various diving courses are offered for beginners and those looking for more advanced certifications.
Choosing an Island: The choice of which Maldives island to spend your holiday on depends on your budget and preferences. Consider whether having a house reef is important to you, as it allows for flexible diving and snorkeling directly from the resort. Luxury islands offer different amenities and may cater to specific preferences, so research and compare options.
Weather and Diving Seasons: The Maldives has become a year-round holiday destination, and climate change has made predicting rainy seasons more difficult. The weather is influenced by the north-east monsoon (mid-December to mid-May) and the south-west monsoon (mid-May to mid-December). Diving conditions and visibility vary depending on the monsoon. The north-east monsoon brings fresh and clear water to the eastern side of atolls, while the south-west monsoon supplies plankton-rich water on the western side, attracting manta rays and whale sharks.
Diving Safety: Be honest about your diving experience and follow the instructions of your diving instructor. Avoid diving alone, under the influence of drugs or alcohol, and allow at least 24 hours after a flight before diving. Ensure that diving is covered by your travel insurance, as some diving center insurances may not apply to boats, equipment, and course participants.
Diving Centers: Many resorts have their own diving centers with knowledgeable instructors who are familiar with nearby reefs suitable for all levels of divers. Malé, the capital of the Maldives, also has a diving school called Sea Explorers Associates, offering PADI courses, test dives, night dives, wreck dives, underwater photography, equipment rental, and diving safaris.
Remember to prioritize safety, choose a reputable diving center, and enjoy the incredible underwater world that the Maldives has to offer.
