Since tourism first came to the Maldives, the Republic, -or more- its coral reefs, have been the aspiration for divers around the globe. In the Maldives, you can explore unblemished undersea kingdoms.

Since the North Atoll, especially its Southern region, is where the first resorts in the Maldives sprang-up, these are the areas that have been most heavily dived. Still, they remain some of the best sites around. The outer reef is broken by as many as 36 channel or 'kandus' where currents can run strong. Thus, drift diving is the most common method.

Usually, divers stay away deom Male, except to explore the wreck of the Maldives Victory, which sank in 1981 at the southern tip of the international airport on Hulhule Island. Here, one can come across the cargo the freighter carried, including two automobiles left on deck.

There are many Manta points to see the wondrous giant manrta rays, but a favorite of the dive master at Sovena Gili is just off Lankan Finolhu, not far from the resort.

Another favourite spot, just south of Sovena Gili on the outer reef is Furana North, where rays and reef shark, snappers and parrotfish are swimming about in shallower depth.
Diving on the eastern rim, Baa Atoll, is somewhat different than the west, where there are big reefs but few island or landmarks. Here during the winter when the water are clearer, you can be privy to some of the best preserved coral heads. At the Northeast end of the Baa Atoll is Kuda Thila, where you will find big trevally, barracudas and reef sharks; schools snappers and stingrays are also abundant. Further east on the outer reef is Dharavandhoo Thila, which rises, and falls, like roller coaster for 200 metres, offering wonderful caves, crevices, and ledge to explore. It's an ideal spot for photographers to take corals cape photo.

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