Scuba dive at Maaya Thila
Maaya Thila is one of the most famous dive sites in North Ari Atoll (Alif Alif), Maldives — renowned for dramatic pinnacles, abundant marine life and exciting drift and night dives. Expect steep walls, overhangs, swim-throughs and strong currents that attract schooling fish, reef sharks and large pelagics. This site is a highlight for experienced recreational divers.
Location
Maaya Thila (pinnacle / reef), North Ari Atoll (Alif Alif Atoll), Maldives
Duration
Single dive ~45–60 minutes in-water; typical half-day excursion 3–4 hours; two-dive trips 4–6 hours. Night dives 60–90 minutes from evening briefing to return.
Best Time to Visit
Best: December to April (calmer seas & excellent visibility). Good year‑round: Maaya Thila performs well outside these months too, but expect stronger currents and variable visibility during the southwest monsoon (May–October).
Pricing
Typical pricing (approx.):
- Single-tank dive: USD 60–90 per person
- Two-tank boat dive: USD 120–200 per person
- Night-dive surcharge: USD 20–40
- Full gear rental (BCD, regulator, wetsuit, weights): USD 20–40
- Nitrox upgrade: USD 15–30 (Prices vary by operator and season.)
Activity Type
Coordinates
Highlights
Pinnacle and steep walls covered in hard and soft corals
Regular sightings of reef sharks (white-tip and grey reef sharks)
Large schools of snappers, trevally and fusiliers
Macro life in crevices: moray eels, lionfish and scorpionfish
Occasional sightings of larger pelagics (tunas, barracuda, rays)
Excellent night diving — hunting predators and large aggregations
Spectacular swim-throughs, overhangs and strong current action
Itinerary
Pick-up / check-in at dive centre; equipment setup and paperwork
Review dive plan, sign waivers, confirm air / nitrox and buddy pairs.
Boat transfer to Maaya Thila
Transfer time depends on base location; briefing en route for currents and entry/exit.
First dive (45–60 min)
Descend on anchor line or drift descent depending on conditions. Stay with your buddy and monitor depth/time.
Surface interval and optional second dive briefing
Snack and hydration; second dive often at a nearby site or repeat of Maaya Thila.
Night dive option (briefing at dusk)
Bring dive torch and back-up light; different behavior of predators and nocturnal species.
Safety Requirements
Minimum certification: Open Water for day dives; Advanced Open Water recommended due to currents and depth.
Night dives: night or advanced training and prior night-dive experience required.
Divers must show a valid certification card and recent logbook entries for deep/current dives.
Good buoyancy control and current-handling skills are essential.
No-decompression limits must be respected; use of dive computer recommended.
Operator should carry emergency oxygen and have a trained Dive Medic/DM/Divemaster onboard.
Check medical fitness to dive; disclose any recent illnesses or medications.
Tips
Bring a torch and back-up light for night dives (required).
Use reef‑safe sunscreen and avoid touching corals — protection of fragile reef ecosystem.
If you’re prone to strong currents, opt for divemaster-led mooring/anchor descents and plan to hold on to the reef cautiously.
Book early in high season (Dec–Apr); operators may run full boats.
Consider Nitrox to extend no‑decompression bottom time if certified and available.
Carry a logbook and certification card; check rental gear beforehand.
Bring waterproof camera or GoPro for wide-angle / shark shots; secure it well in currents.
Hydrate well and avoid alcohol before diving; surface intervals are a good time for light snacks.
