The temperate ocean waters of the Maldivian atolls are home to the highly intelligent and largest rays in the world, the manta rays. We invite you to join us as we explore the coral-reef equivalent of our onboard spa—the manta ray cleaning stations.

On this journey, we'll delve into the behaviors and habitats of these highly cognitive sea creatures, all while discovering how you can contribute to the protection of these highly threatened beings.

Throughout daily dives and explorations on the western side of the atolls, you'll also partake in ocean talks from guest speakers of local NGOs, engage in PADI Specialty courses, and enjoy entertainment. You’ll leave not only having experienced the wonders of devil fish but also having made a significant impact on the conservation of these creatures, fundamental to our marine ecosystems.

Overview

Best of Maldives Itinerary: Male - Vaavu - South Ari - North Ari - Male (no domestic flight required).

This itinerary is planned to maximize our chances of encounters with manta rays while visiting some of the best dive sites the central Maldivian atolls have to offer.

Dive into the most renowned manta ray locations and discover the lesser-known cleaning stations. You will see the most breathtaking coral formations the central atolls have to offer, featuring channel dives and a diverse marine ecosystem coexisting with graceful mantas.

Between dives, you will participate in workshops that will help you better appreciate the behavior of these fascinating creatures before jumping in the water with them.

This trip includes a visit to South Ari atoll, a popular hotspot for whale sharks too!

On top of daily diving, you'll experience:

• PADI AWARE Specialty courses: Manta Awareness, Dive Against Debris, and more.
• Project AWARE Specialty course: INCLUDED (theory-only).

Sample Itinerary

Day 1

• Meeting at the airport and transfer to the main vessel
• Welcome aboard, registration and cabin allocation 
• Spa opens for info and reservations
• Crew introduction and safety meeting with Cruise Manager 
• Welcome Dinner at Al Fresco Restaurant

Day 2 -7

Possible Dive Sites:

• Male
• Vaavu
• South Ari atoll
• North Ari atoll

Day 8

• Breakfast
• First transfer to Velana International Airport 
• Check-out and bills with Cruise Manager 
• Last Transfer to Velana International Airport

Marine Life: reef sharks, mantas, whale sharks, and vibrant coral life throughout the atolls. Each dive offers up-close interactions with the Maldives’ most iconic ocean creatures in their natural habitat.

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.

(*) The itinerary description is provided by the boat operator. Sample itineraries and maps are for illustrative purposes only, and the exact route and sites visited may change based on local regulations, guest experience, weather, and logistics at the Captain’s discretion.