Fotteyo Kandu,Maldives

• Channel dives with strong drift currents and dramatic topography
• Vertical drop-offs and overhangs/swim-throughs
• Regular sightings of reef sharks, big groupers and large schools of fish
• High visibility and photogenic underwater landscapes
• Popular stop on liveaboard dive itineraries

• Powerful blue‑water drift opportunities ideal for experienced divers
• Concentrations of pelagics (grey reef sharks, occasional hammerheads and large trevally)
• Healthy hard and soft corals on walls and ledges with macro life in crevices
• Frequent currents producing nutrient upwelling that attracts large fish

• Scuba diving (advanced and drift dives recommended)
• Underwater photography and wide-angle pelagic photography
• Liveaboard itineraries offering multiple dives and night dives
• Boat trips and day trips from nearby resorts or Malé (when available)

Best time: November–April (northeast dry season) generally offers clearer water and more stable conditions for diving. Pelagic sightings can occur year‑round; some species show seasonal patterns depending on atoll currents.

Tropical maritime climate: dry season (northeast monsoon, Dec–Apr) with calmer seas and sunnier weather; wet season (southwest monsoon, May–Nov) brings more rain, wind and choppier seas.

There are no formal entry fees for the dive site itself. Diving is arranged through licensed dive centers or liveaboards; operators may charge site fees, park fees, or dive permit surcharges depending on local regulations. There are no fixed opening hours — dives are scheduled by operators (typically day or multi‑dive itineraries).

Access: The site is reached only by boat. Most visitors come on liveaboards or day trips arranged by resorts/dive centers based in Malé or other atolls. The nearest international gateway is Velana International Airport (Malé); transfer times vary widely depending on the departure atoll and operator. The dive is best suited to experienced divers comfortable with currents and drift diving; guided dives by local professionals are strongly recommended.

If traveling specifically to dive Fotteyo Kandu, allocate at least 1–2 dives at the site. Many divers include it as part of a multi‑day liveaboard (3–7+ nights) to access multiple top sites and increase chances of pelagic encounters.

Bring reef‑safe sunscreen, a rashguard or light wetsuit (3–5 mm depending on personal comfort), dive computer, SMB/surface marker, strong reef hooks if used by guides, camera with wide‑angle lens and sturdy fins. For surface travel, pack a light waterproof jacket and sun protection.

Enjoy Maldivian specialties such as mas huni (tuna and coconut), fish curries and local snacks. Souvenirs commonly include lacquerware, woven mats, shell jewelry and other handcrafted items sold in Malé and resort gift shops.