Scuba diving in Maalhos Thila

  • must see
Access
From Boat
Diver level
Experienced
Depth
Average: 7 m
Maximum: 27 m
Visibility
Average: 10 m
Maximum: 30 m

Maalhos Thila is one of the most picturesque dive points in the waters of the Maldives Archipelago. Also known as Blue Caves, the site lies close to the northern coast of Maalhos Island, inside the Maalhohu Thuru Kandu channel. This is a pinnacle with the top point made of a coral reef lying at only 6m/26ft deep. On the southern side of Maalhos Thila, starting from 7m/23ft down to 27m/89ft deep there is a series of caves, which is what makes this dive site especially interesting. The caves are shallower on the east side of the site, and reach the deepest point at the western side. In terms of marine fauna, Maalhos Thila is not one of the most diverse sites, but it has rare and exceptionally beautiful and vibrant soft and hard corals and other sea flora species. The site's outstanding and original beauty definitely attracts photographers, making it a must-see dive site. Due to the strong tidal currents, the dive is considered to be for experienced divers only.

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When to go

It is possible to dive year-round at this spot. However, it is recommended to visit the site from December to May, because the sea is at its calmest during this time. The water temperature doesn’t change much by the seasons, and is consistent at 26-29C/79-84F throughout the year.

What to see

Maalhos Thila's caves have magnificent soft corals in white, blue, and violet colors on the ceilings. The white corals are recognized as some of the most beautiful in Ari Atoll. Another feature of the site is the three huge coral bushes surrounded by other vibrant soft corals. Gray reef sharks, blue-striped snapper, barracudas, scorpionfish, and eyefish are the most commonly seen inhabitants of the site.

Reachable from

Liveaboards with trips to Maalhos Thila

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