This dive site, Thiling Faru, is a vibrant Maldivian reef accessible by a 20-minute boat ride. Divers navigate a top reef starting at 10 meters, which then transitions into a beautiful coral slope descending to 15 meters and further down. A notable feature is a sandy area on a corner, ringed by coral blocks, which serves as a well-known Manta cleaning station.
The rich marine biodiversity here includes frequent encounters with grey reef sharks, majestic eagle rays, and sting rays. Schools of snappers are also a common sight, adding to the dynamic underwater scenery. During the right season, the highlight is undoubtedly the graceful manta rays utilizing the cleaning station, alongside vibrant hard and soft coral formations that adorn the slopes.
The best time to visit Thiling Faru for manta ray encounters is during their specific season. The site offers excellent opportunities for both scuba divers and freedivers, with its shallow top reef providing a safe entry point and the deeper slopes appealing to more experienced breath-hold divers. Divers should be prepared for potential moderate currents, especially near the cleaning station, and always keep an eye out for pelagic life in the blue.
