Our Far North itineraries offer an experience like no other. This unique adventure takes you to remote tropical spots where you can witness the extraordinary gatherings of manta rays in Hanifaru Bay.

For the first time, our northern season features a distinct route in this remote region: the Classic North, offering a different way to experience the Maldives’ wildest frontier.

In 2026, Scubaspa returns to the farthest reaches of the Maldives with six weeks of carefully timed cruises designed for divers who crave something beyond the ordinary. These 2 special itineraries include iconic sites like Hanifaru Bay, renowned for its manta ray gatherings, but also venture into rarely visited atolls.

Untouched by mass tourism, rich in marine life, and bursting with biodiversity, this route is crafted for those who love the Maldives and want to explore its outer edges.

The northern atolls present a striking variety of underwater seascapes, from towering pinnacles to hidden canyons, overhangs, and channels. Each site is adorned with vibrant coral formations and alive with marine life.

Above the surface, calm waters give way to scattered sandbanks and secluded islands, perfect spots to relax in vast, shallow lagoons that are likely to be ours alone.

Sample Itinerary 

Day 1: Malé | Embarkation & Cruise North
Arrive in Malé and board the vessel. After welcome drinks, safety and dive briefings, and equipment setup, relax on deck as the vessel begins its cruise north toward the northern atolls. Depending on timing, a short check dive or snorkeling session may be offered en route.

Day 2 – 7:

• Noonu Atoll | Untouched Reefs
  Start exploring the quiet northern Noonu Atoll, featuring pristine dive sites with pinnacles, overhangs, and thriving coral formations. Expect reef sharks, schooling fish, and abundant marine life in largely untouched waters—a perfect introduction to the far north.
  
  
• Lhaviyani Atoll | Pelagic Encounters
  Dive the channels and reef edges of Lhaviyani Atoll, where currents bring in pelagics such as grey reef sharks, silvertips, eagle rays, turtles, and schools of barracuda. Enjoy clear waters and adrenaline-filled action for big-fish enthusiasts.
  
  
• Lhaviyani Atoll | Channel Action
  Continue diving in Lhaviyani’s dynamic channels, exploring pinnacles, overhangs, and coral gardens alive with marine life. Strong currents and excellent visibility make this an ideal day for adventurous divers seeking action-packed dives.
  
  
• Raa Atoll | Easy Reefs & Mantas
  Arrive in Raa Atoll, known for calm conditions, colorful reefs, schooling fish, and occasional manta sightings. Multiple dive sites are close together, offering relaxed exploration and opportunities for wide-angle and macro photography.
  
  
• Raa Atoll | Coral & Macro Life
  Morning dives continue in Raa Atoll before cruising south toward Baa Atoll. Explore vibrant soft corals, reef fish, and potential manta encounters. A slower pace today allows for detailed observation and underwater photography.
  
  
• Baa Atoll | Hanifaru Bay & Reefs
  Dive and snorkel in Hanifaru Bay, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, timed for the best chance to see manta ray gatherings during the southwest monsoon. Additional dives showcase healthy coral gardens, schooling fish, and occasional pelagic visitors.

Day 8: Malé | Disembarkation
Complete your northern adventure with morning relaxation or a short dive before arriving in Dharavandhoo. Disembark and transfer via domestic flight, marking the end of your Classic North Maldives Far North journey.

The last dive will be on the penultimate day of the trip. Divers are recommended to wait for 24 hours before flying after the last dive.

Sample itineraries and maps are for illustrative purposes only. The exact route and sites visited are subject to change based on local regulations, guest experience, weather, and logistics, and are at the Captain’s discretion.

• 1x Hanifaru Bay permit included per guest.
• Snorkeling in Hanifaru Bay replaces one scheduled dive.
• Additional entries are possible at an extra cost.
• Domestic flights required.
• Itineraries are weather and wildlife-dependent.