This dive site, Dharavandhoo Thila, is an oval-shaped reef in the Maldives, oriented on a north-northwestern to south-southeastern axis. The shallowest part forms a rooftop at approximately 6 meters, extending into a reef top for 20-30 meters before gently sloping down to a sandy bottom around 20 meters. There's no specific history or story provided, but its structure makes for straightforward navigation, typically involving circling the thila or staying on the reef top.
Dharavandhoo Thila is renowned for its diverse marine life. It is an excellent location for macro photography, suggesting an abundance of small creatures such as nudibranchs, crustaceans, and various small reef fish. During the Southwest monsoon (May to November), it transforms into a significant Manta Ray cleaning station, attracting these majestic pelagics. The coral reef itself hosts a variety of hard and soft corals, providing habitat for a rich ecosystem of reef fish.
The best time to visit Dharavandhoo Thila for Manta Ray encounters is during the Southwest monsoon, specifically between May and November. For macro enthusiasts, the site is productive year-round. Divers should be mindful of potential moderate currents, especially when mantas are present. Both freedivers and snorkelers can enjoy the shallower reef top, which is accessible from 6 meters, offering excellent opportunities for observing reef life and, potentially, mantas from the surface.
