Explore North Nilandhe Atoll
North Nilandhe Atoll in the Maldives offers a unique diving experience, characterized by its vibrant marine life and diverse underwater landscapes. One of the most notable features of this atoll is Filitheyo Thandu, a renowned channel that presents three exceptional dive sites: Filitheyo Outside, Filitheyo Thila, and Dolphin Corner. These sites are famous for hosting large schools of fish and stingrays, providing divers with the chance to witness the dynamic underwater ballet that characterizes the region. Additionally, North Nilandhe Atoll is home to 23 species of cetaceans, including dolphins, porpoises, and whales, adding an element of surprise and excitement to the dives.
Diving in North Nilandhe Atoll is predominantly done via boat or liveaboard, offering easy access to the protected marine areas and ensuring divers can explore the best of what the atoll has to offer. The underwater topography is rich with colorful coral reefs and dramatic walls, creating an enchanting backdrop for underwater photography and exploration. Seasonal variations bring different marine life spectacles, making each visit unique. Staying at the Filitheyo Resort, the only resort in the atoll, provides a convenient base for exploring these incredible dive sites while enjoying the stunning natural beauty of the Maldives.
Top North Nilandhe Atoll Dive Sites
1. Vattaru Reef
Vattaru Reef is renowned for its vibrant coral gardens and a plethora of reef fish like butterflyfish and parrotfish. The adventure level is easy, making it suitable for beginners. Both scuba and freediving are possible. The site is notable for its ecological significance and is part of a protected marine area.
2. Fushi Kandu
Fushi Kandu offers thrilling encounters with pelagic species such as sharks and rays. This advanced dive site is ideal for experienced divers. Scuba diving is recommended due to strong currents. Its striking underwater topography, with drop-offs and channels, provides an exciting diving experience.
3. Mahibadhoo Giri
This site boasts an array of soft corals and diverse marine life, including turtles and eagle rays. Suitable for both scuba and freediving, it caters to all skill levels. Special features include stunning coral formations and a variety of macro life. The site is a testament to the atoll's rich biodiversity.
4. Mulah Kandu
Mulah Kandu is a channel dive attracting large schools of barracuda and trevallies. Recommended for advanced divers due to strong currents, it offers exceptional scuba diving opportunities. The dynamic environment and occasional manta ray sightings make it a captivating dive adventure.
5. Hammerhead Point
Famous for early morning dives to witness hammerhead sharks, this site is for advanced divers. Scuba diving is advisable to navigate its deep waters. Known for its dramatic drop-offs, it provides an adrenaline-pumping experience, especially during the hammerhead migration season.