Kandooma Thila,Maldives

• Kandooma Thila dive site (the submerged pinnacle itself)
• Regular shark sightings (especially grey reef and whitetip reef sharks)
• Dense schools of fusiliers and snappers
• Cleaning stations and coral gardens
• Opportunities for drift dives and pelagic encounters

• Steep vertical walls rising from depth — classic thila topography
• Strong, variable currents that bring in large pelagics and enhance sightings
• Good underwater visibility (often 15–30 m) ideal for photography
• Coral-encrusted bommies and occasional swim-throughs
• Suitability for advanced and experienced divers due to depth and currents

• Guided scuba dives (day dives and drift dives) — primary activity
• Underwater photography and videography
• Night dives in surrounding shallower reefs (organized by dive operators)
• Liveaboard itineraries that include South Malé Atoll
• Marine-life watching from dive boat decks when not diving

All-year diving is possible, but with nuances: December–April tends to offer calmer seas and more consistent visibility (northeast dry season); May–November can bring stronger currents and increased chances of pelagic encounters (southwest monsoon). Choose dates based on whether you prioritize calm conditions or big-pelagic sightings.

Tropical maritime climate: air 26–31°C, seawater typically 27–29°C. Expect sun with intermittent rain during the wet season (May–Oct). Humidity is high year-round.

There is no public entry fee for a dive site — access is via licensed dive operators or resort dive centers that charge per dive or offer dive packages. Dive schedules depend on operators and tide/current windows; early morning or late afternoon dives are common. Bring proof of diving certification for guided dives.

Nearest international gateway is Velana International Airport (Malé). Kandooma Thila is reached by dive boat or liveaboard from Malé or nearby resort islands (transit times ~20–90 minutes depending on departure point). Only dive operators and boats should approach the site; recreational access is always accompanied by a guide.

If diving Kandooma Thila specifically: a day trip or part of a multi-day diving program. For a broader South Malé Atoll dive experience, 3–7 days is recommended to allow multiple dives and contingency for weather.

Reef-safe sunscreen, light sun-protective clothing for boats, a windbreaker for early mornings. For divers: full dive kit if preferred (BCD, regulator, computer), a reef hook for drift dives (used only under guide instruction), a reliable dive torch for night dives, and a 3–5 mm wetsuit depending on personal cold tolerance.

Try Maldivian dishes such as mas huni (tuna with coconut), garudhiya (fish broth) and fresh seafood available at local resorts. Souvenirs include lacquerware, woven mats and model dhoni boats — avoid purchasing coral or products made from endangered marine species. Support local artisans and choose ethically sourced items.