Explore Seenu Atoll (Addu Atoll)

Addu Atoll, also known as Seenu Atoll, offers an exceptional diving experience in the southernmost part of the Maldives. This unique destination extends into the Southern Hemisphere, providing divers with an array of thrilling underwater opportunities. The atoll's natural harbor and barrier reef, once used by the British during WWII, now shelter the Maldives' largest wreck, the British Loyalty. This historical site, alongside vibrant coral gardens, offers a fascinating glimpse into the past while being a haven for marine life. One of the standout features of diving in Addu Atoll is its resilience to coral bleaching, resulting in some of the brightest hard coral gardens in the Maldives. Divers can expect encounters with spectacular marine life, including frequent sightings of whales and dolphins from the dive boat. Notably, Addu Atoll is one of the few places in the Maldives where manta rays can be seen all year round. With gentle currents, it caters to both beginner and experienced divers. Sites like "Gan Inside" showcase bustling reefs teeming with turtles and stingrays, providing a truly immersive underwater experience. Unlike other atolls, Addu doesn't have the strong currents or caves typical to the Maldives, but it compensates with its abundance of large marine creatures. The area is a paradise for those seeking encounters with giant manta rays, large sharks, big turtles, and numerous shipwrecks, making it a distinctive and unforgettable diving destination.

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Diving in Seenu Atoll (Addu Atoll)

Seenu Atoll diving offers a quieter and more laid back appeal than the busier Northern Atolls. There is only 1 dive centre available - and they do offer courses. There are no dive resorts and only a handful of guesthouses and hotels to choose from. The best choice, if you wish to dive a lot, is a liveaboard. It makes travel between dive sites easier and you will be able to see all the atoll has to offer. There are over 10 liveaboards to choose from so there will definitely be something to suit you!

Diving in Seenu Atoll offers drift dives, like most atolls, but these are noticeable shallower and gentler - making it perfect for novices. The kandus have stronger drifts for more advanced divers, with some caves and overhangs to investigate. There is also the British Loyalty wreck to explore - with swim throughs and coral galore, this is perfect for photographers.

The best Months to dive in Seenu Atoll (Addu Atoll)

The best time for diving in Seenu Atoll is from December to April. This is the driest period of the year and has low winds. This means that the visibility is generally excellent and the seas are at their calmest.

Between June and November, the winds are stronger and there is more rain, though plenty of sunshine too. The diving is still excellent and brings in higher chances of seeing large pelagic creatures who come to feast on the extra plankton. That being said, the rougher seas around June sometimes disrupt dive boats so do check before you book. 

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