How to get scuba diving experience in Maldives – Plan well and take the plunge

The shimmering shores and breathtaking islands that comprise the Maldivian archipelago set the stage for many an outdoor excursion to be had. Among the sought-after pastimes is the water sport of scuba diving which best serves those vacationers who desire a laidback approach that will have them surrounded by marine species of varying shapes and sizes. Outlined below is how you can make the most of your scuba diving outing to the Maldives. 

Schedule your scuba diving holiday with the local weather in mind

Although scuba diving can be enjoyed throughout the course of the year in the Maldives, what will set you apart from the rest and in turn, afford you more than what you initially bargained for is if you choose the right season. Equipped with this thought, make a note of the weather conditions that will prevail during December to May which is the period where the northeast monsoon makes its presence felt in the Maldives. Notably, the waters will be at their calmest while visibility which is essential when going scuba diving will hover between 15-20 meters on the western side and 20-30 meters on the eastern side of the island nation. This is the most favourable time of the year to pack your scuba diving equipment and beeline for the Maldives which importantly, is subjected to water temperatures that move between 26-29 degrees Celsius during the entire year. 

Image via Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives 

Start small and gradually build personal confidence to take on greater challenges

What makes the Maldives one of the finest scuba diving destinations in the world is credited to the fact that those of all ages and competencies can try their hand at mastering this water sport. Diversity reigns supreme, both with respect to the species that you will invariably witness together with the nature of dive sites. Choosing the right island is a start and if you are a novice or someone who has limited experience, then it will be wise to spend time in a sheltered reef well away from fast flowing currents. Such an approach helps you grow in confidence and get accustomed to the conditions. On the flip side, skilled campaigners can kick off their adventures by picking and choosing their favourite drift dive.

Tick off as many dive sites and locations as you can

In terms of advice, look forward to covering as much of the country’s dive sites so that you give yourself the best possible chance to admire and appreciate the mesmeric underwater world of the Maldives. The Baa Atoll which ranks as one of the better northern atolls in the Maldives plays host to Dhonfanu Thila. Once here, you will have the best seat in the house to experience a vast amount of fish including manta rays. Also, Maavaru Kandu is a more than decent investment of your time and finances for you can expect black coral bushes and whip corals to fall into view. If you choose to stay within the parameters of the northern atolls, then venture out to the Raa Atoll and specifically, Fenfushi Giri. The napoleon wrasse and numerous stingrays can be captured swimming about while you will never be too far away from surgeonfish, parrotfish and butterflyfish. Next up is a trip to the Ari Atoll in the south which boasts an amazing collection of mammals to come into contact with which range from eagle rays, hammerhead sharks, blacktail barracuda and batfish that will combine in making for one memorable adventure beneath the waves. Bringing up the rear so to speak is the South Male Atoll which is home to a gamut of delightful destinations, each with its fair share of exotic marine wildlife that will leave you in complete awe. In fact, should you choose to be based at Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives which is arguably, one of the best Maldives scuba diving resorts, then you may schedule a trip to the South Male Atoll at your own leisure.