Route Description - Best of the Central Atolls (Male-Ari-Vaavu-Male)
A classic Maldivian liveaboard aboard Horizon 3 showcases the very best of North Malé, Vaavu and Ari Atolls. Dive vibrant reefs, dramatic channels and famous manta cleaning stations, with thrilling encounters including whale sharks, grey reef sharks, marble rays and swirling schools of fusiliers. Highlights include the exhilarating Miyaru Kandu (Shark Channel), night diving in Vaavu, the Kudhimaa Wreck, and the chance to swim alongside gentle whale sharks in South Ari. Evenings bring relaxed cruising and a beach barbecue under the stars, before returning to Malé with unforgettable memories of big-fish action and world-class diving.
Day 1
This classic Maldivian liveaboard route offers the ultimate diving experience aboard Horizon 3. Guests explore a remarkable variety of habitats and depths, with each dive bringing fresh encounters and the chance to observe impressive large pelagic species.
Day 2 – North Malé Atoll ? Vaavu Atoll
The journey begins in North Malé Atoll, one of the Maldives’ most celebrated dive regions. Divers can expect encounters with marble rays, manta rays and, with luck, guitar sharks. By sunset, the vessel reaches Vaavu Atoll for an unforgettable night dive in Felidhoo, revealing a completely different perspective of the underwater world.
Day 3 – Vaavu Atoll ? South Ari Atoll
Guests experience the exhilarating Miyaru Kandu (Shark Channel), an impressive canyon known for shark sightings and swirling schools of fusiliers. Vaavu Atoll offers diverse underwater landscapes, including caves, overhangs, coral walls and vibrant reefs rich in marine life.
Day 4 – South Ari Atoll
South Ari Atoll is renowned for whale shark encounters, offering divers the extraordinary opportunity to swim alongside these gentle giants. Highlights include the Kudhimaa Wreck, where grey reef sharks, Napoleon wrasse and abundant reef life create a truly memorable dive.
Day 5 – South Ari Atoll ? North Ari Atoll
The search for whale sharks continues before the voyage proceeds to North Ari Atoll, known for its wider and deeper channels that attract grey reef and whitetip sharks. In the evening, guests enjoy a barbecue on a deserted island beneath a starlit sky.
Day 6 – North Ari Atoll
North Ari Atoll is home to renowned manta ray cleaning stations, where these majestic creatures can often be observed up close.
Day 7 – North Ari Atoll ? North Malé Atoll
The final full day of diving is spent exploring the vibrant reefs of North Ari Atoll before returning to North Malé Atoll for dives along outer reefs, caves and colourful coral formations. In the evening, Horizon 3 sails towards Malé, concluding an unforgettable week beneath the waves.
Day 8 – Departure
After breakfast, check-out takes place at 8:00 am, followed by transfers to the airport. Guests depart with lasting memories of an exceptional Maldivian adventure.
Please note: The above itinerary is indicative and subject to change based on weather, currents and operational considerations.