Explore Meemu Atoll
Diving in Meemu Atoll, nestled within the Central Atolls of the Maldives, offers a unique and serene underwater experience. Measuring 48 kilometers/30 miles in length, this atoll is one of the least crowded in the region, boasting only two resorts and no independent dive centers. This means divers often enjoy the luxury of being the sole boat in the vicinity, lending an air of exclusivity and tranquility to the adventure. The atoll is renowned for its almost continuous barrier reef, punctuated by narrow yet deep kandus (channels) that foster vibrant marine ecosystems.
One of the most compelling features of Meemu Atoll is its year-round sightings of majestic manta rays. Unlike many other atolls that experience strong currents, Meemu offers several dive sites with minimal current, making it ideal for beginners. Yet, it doesn’t shy away from thrilling encounters with large pelagic life due to the nutrient-rich waters flowing through its channels. Mulee Island, a standout dive location, is famed for manta ray gatherings, especially during the monsoon season. Divers can also challenge themselves with the Shark’s Tongue dive, plummeting to depths of 90 meters/295 feet. Overall, Meemu Atoll presents a perfect blend of serenity and excitement, promising memorable dives amid stunning coral formations and abundant marine life.
Dive Activity
Diving in Meemu Atoll
The reef diving in Meemu Atoll offers barrier reefs, thilas and strong drift dives in the deep kandus of the eastern and western sites. Several of the dive sites have the accolade of having almost no current. This is significant in the region and it makes this atoll a good choice for beginners. That is not to say that advanced divers will not be satisfied too!
There are 2 resorts in the atoll, both with dive centres attached, and no dedicated dive resorts. There are also no independent dive centres available, so those wishing to dive another way might need to look into liveaboards. They are often the best way to dive the Maldives as you can take in lots of dive sites and it becomes the most economical way to dive a lot. Diving courses might be possible on some liveaboards but will be easier from a resort or centre.
Top Wildlife Sightings in Meemu Atoll
Meemu Atoll offers the rare chance to see manta rays all year round. The deep kandus to the east and west sweep plankton rich waters into the lagoon. These waters attract ocean giants like manta rays and even occasionally whale sharks. Mobula manta rays, grey reef sharks and eagle rays are seen on almost every dive. As if you needed other things to look at, schools of snapper, jacks and fusilier swim alongside the big fish like giant barracuda, grouper and napoleon wrasse.
Wildlife Sightings are Based on User Generated Content
The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.
Total number of species: 200
Alamy-WaterFrame
131 Sightings
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6
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26
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15
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14
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10
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2
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3
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3
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4
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26
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16
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6
Shutterstock-Shane Myers Photography
Green Turtle
104 Sightings
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7
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7
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8
A
14
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13
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4
J
5
A
6
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1
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24
N
10
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5
The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.
Total number of species: 25
iStock/Juliosanjuan
Eagle Ray
102 Sightings
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6
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28
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18
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17
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5
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2
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4
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2
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0
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8
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7
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5
iStock-crisod
Reef Manta Ray
85 Sightings
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12
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16
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13
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5
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3
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0
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0
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1
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0
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23
N
10
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2
The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.
Total number of species: 600
iStock/ultramarinfoto
Wrasse
44 Sightings
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3
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3
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3
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4
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2
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7
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15
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6
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Shutterstock-Ed Jenkins
Hawksbill Turtle
42 Sightings
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5
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6
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2
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5
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2
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1
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3
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2
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1
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8
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5
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2
The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.
Total number of species: 27
iStock-Global_Pics
Barracuda
41 Sightings
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13
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6
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4
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4
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7
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3
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2
iStock/Divepic
Giant Oceanic Manta Ray
33 Sightings
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2
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5
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8
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0
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3
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0
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0
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0
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1
O
7
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4
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3
The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.
Total number of species: 300
Alamy/Reinhard Dirscherl
Octopus
23 Sightings
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3
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3
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2
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2
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0
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0
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0
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6
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0
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6
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1
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0
Alamy/National Geographic Image Collection
Oceanic Whitetip Shark
11 Sightings
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4
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1
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4
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0
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0
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0
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0
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1
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0
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1
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0
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0
The best Months to dive in Meemu Atoll
The diving in Meemu Atoll is great all year round but the optimum diving conditions can be found in the dry season between December and April. The winds are low and the rain is minimal meaning that the oceans are crystal clear. The endless hours of sunshine mean that it is perfect holiday weather!
The monsoon season is from May to November. Though there are more regular rain showers, there is more than enough sun to make up for it. The winds do increase during this time which can make the seas choppier. Double check with your dive company to make sure they are operating as normal if you plan to dive around June, as the seas can sometimes be too rough for boats. You might also benefit from reduced rates during this season!
