The Maldives have gained international recognition because of its distinctive underwater features as well as great diving opportunities offered by these formations.
The key among various kinds of underwater formations that serve as great places for diving are Thila, Giri, and Kandu dives.
Each kind of dive offers a variety of landscapes, underwater wildlife, and conditions for dives.
Such natural underwater features are conducive to the development of diverse marine ecosystems such as coral colonies, reef fish, sharks, manta rays, and other fauna species typical for Maldivian waters.
For divers who are keen on exploring the amazing marine environment, the best way is to try out each of these kinds of dives and discover the rich underwater biodiversity of Maldives.
Knowledge about these underwater formations allows for choosing the most suitable dive depending on experience levels and preferences of marine wildlife.
Activities and Experiences
While scuba diving in the Maldives, there are numerous activities that are available to try out for divers around Thila, Giri, and Kandu dives.
| 🤿 Coral reef and channel diving |
| 🦈 Diving with sharks and rays |
| 🐠 Reef fish observation |
| 🌊 Drift diving |
| 🐢 Shark and manta ray sightseeing |
| 📸 Underwater photo tours |
| 🚤 Safari diving |
| 🏝️ Reef and island discovery |
| 🐬 Dolphin watching |
| 🌅 Sunset diving |
What Is a Thila Dive?
A Thila is a submerged underwater reef that arises from deep ocean floors but doesn’t touch the surface.
This kind of underwater formation is one of the most popular in the Maldives, attracting numerous aquatic species.
Strong ocean currents surrounding a Thila make it possible to grow corals and gather a lot of sharks, barracudas, tuna, eagle rays, and schools of tropical fish.
Typically, a Thila features various underwater spots like caves, overhangs, soft corals, and impressive reef walls great for underwater photography.
What Is a Giri Dive?
A Giri is an underwater reef structure that starts from the seabed and rises close to the surface of the ocean.
Compared to Thilas, Giri formations are usually shallower and are suitable for both beginner and experienced divers.
Giri dive sites are famous for colorful coral gardens, reef fish, turtles, moray eels, and calm underwater environments.
These formations are also excellent for snorkeling and underwater photography because of their visibility and shallow reef structure.
What Is a Kandu Dive?
A Kandu is a channel between islands or reefs where ocean currents flow through the atoll.
Kandu dives are famous for drift diving experiences and encounters with larger pelagic marine species.
Divers exploring Kandus may encounter reef sharks, eagle rays, tuna, barracudas, manta rays, and large schools of fish moving with the currents.
Due to stronger currents, Kandu dives are often recommended for experienced divers.
Why Are These Types of Dives Famous in the Maldives?
Atoll-shaped geographies of the Maldives make it possible to have Thila, Giri, and Kandu formations in many locations.
These three types of underwater landscapes allow divers to witness amazing marine life and beautiful scenery.
Famous atolls where divers can explore these formations are:
| North Male Atoll |
| Ari Atoll |
| Baa Atoll |
| Huvadhoo Atoll |
Such underwater spots are one of the main reasons why people think the Maldives is one of the best places for diving.
