Route Description - Hanifaru Manta & Whaleshark Special-Baa & Raa Atoll
This dive safari is perfect for avid divers seeking crystal-clear waters and spectacular experiences around Hanifaru Bay. Hanifaru Bay is world-famous for its large gatherings of manta rays (especially during the plankton season from May to November) and occasional whale shark sightings. The itinerary combines a variety of drift and reef dives with stunning underwater landscapes, including vibrant coral gardens, caves, channels, and healthy reef walls.
Arrival Day:
Guests are welcomed at the airport by the crew at noon (12:00 pm). For later arrivals, transfers are arranged at a pre-scheduled time.
Upon boarding the AMBA liveaboard, guests are greeted with a refreshing drink and lime-scented towel. A short orientation introduces the vessel’s layout and the day’s schedule, after which guests may settle into their cabins and freshen up.
At 5:00 pm, check-in documents are completed, followed by equipment assembly on the dive boat (dhoni) with assistance from the dive crew.
Dinner is served at 6:30 pm, followed by crew introductions and a comprehensive safety briefing. The evening is free to relax, socialise, and adjust dive computers with the support of the dive team.
Day 2 to the Last Diving Day:
Each day includes 2–3 dives (typically three, unless long crossings are required), all conducted from the dhoni, with one night dive per trip.
Dive sites are carefully selected, with detailed briefings provided in English (German translation available). Expect vibrant coral gardens and exciting encounters with manta rays, whale sharks, hammerheads, tiger sharks, bull sharks, guitar rays, and other marine life.
Dives are conducted in self-reliant buddy teams, accompanied by experienced guides. Divers must be confident making independent ascents and using surface marker buoys when required.
If manta rays or whale sharks are sighted at Hanifaru Bay, the schedule may change to allow snorkelling with these giants. In such cases, the full three dives may not be completed.
Last Diving Day – Day Before Departure:
The final dive takes place at 8:00 am. Afterwards, equipment can be rinsed and left to dry before packing.
In the afternoon, guests may visit Malé from 4:00–6:00 pm. A farewell gathering is held at 6:30 pm, followed by dinner.
Departure Day:
Check-out is before 8:30 am. A light breakfast is provided, with earlier departures available on request. Late check-outs are not possible due to vessel preparations.
Guests with later flights may store luggage at the airport and use the time to explore nearby islands or relax at the airport hotel.