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Reef, Rays & Hanifaru Bay
Discover the magic of the Maldives as you explore vibrant coral reefs, colourful thilas and giris, and glide alongside schooling reef fish, eagle rays, stingrays, reef sharks, and even the occasional whale shark. During the manta season, enjoy the rare opportunity to witness mass manta gatherings inside the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve Hanifaru Bay — one of the world’s top manta hotspots.
Beyond the water, this itinerary brings the islands to life: local island experiences, a tropical beach BBQ, Maldivian night fishing, and a serene beach escape surrounded by crystal-blue lagoons.
Perfect for non-divers, beginners, and seasoned divers, Reef & Rays is crafted for ocean lovers of every level. Whether it’s your first glimpse underwater or a return to familiar blue, this journey offers the ideal balance of relaxation, discovery, and unforgettable marine encounters.
The route is flexible and may be adjusted by the Dive Team based on weather and sea conditions.
Beach BBQ, Night Fishing & Local Island visit are planned during the trip, weather permitting.
This itinerary is suitable for non-divers, snorkellers, Open Water divers and above.
We offer PADI Open Water, Advanced Open Water, and Nitrox courses onboard for guests who wish to continue their diving education.
Welcome to Our
Trip Highlights
- Trip Highlights
- Vibrant Coral Reefs
- Manta, Eagle and Sting Rays
- Whale Sharks
- Thila / Giri Dives (Coral Pinnacles)
- Pelagic Encounters (Reef Sharks)
- Beach BBQ
- Turtle Encounters
- Local Island Experience
- Maldivian Night Fishing
- Unesco Biosphere Hanifaru Bay Experience
- Schooling Reef Fishes
- Snorkelling
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Program
North Male' - Baa - Raa - BAA
Starts in Male' Ends in Baa Atoll (dharavdhoo (DRV)). 5 Night trips. Domestic flight required from Dharavandhoo to Male'.
Baa - Raa - Baa - North Male
Starts in Baa Atoll (dharavandhoo) / Ends in Male'. 5 Nights trips. Domestic Flight required from Male' to Dharavandhoo.
Summer only
South West Season: July - September
Snorkel in a UNESCO Protected Area
Experience the magic of Hanifaru Bay, a UNESCO-protected marine area renowned for its incredible gatherings of manta rays and whale sharks. This itinerary includes one entrance to Hanifaru Bay, coordinated by the Carpe Diem team together with local rangers.
Our crew will monitor conditions in Baa Atoll and, when mantas or whale sharks are present, will arrange a guided snorkel excursion to ensure guests enjoy this extraordinary natural spectacle.
Please note that diving is not permitted inside Hanifaru Bay.
Important:
For the safety and preservation of marine life, touching or interfering with manta rays or whale sharks is strictly prohibited and will not be tolerated.
Certified Open Water Divers and above and minimum 15 dives required
Nitrox recommended (Open Water, Advanced Open Water & Nitrox courses are provided on all boats).
Day 1
Join us for an unforgettable experience with Carpe Diem, Carpe Vita or Carpe Novo! Gather at counter D17 at Velena International Airport approximately 15 minutes before boats departure timing, where a friendly representative will be waiting to guide you to the boat, all set for your departure.
Check-In Times:
* For Carpe Diem: 12:30
* For Carpe Novo/Carpe Vita: 14:00
Check-Out Time:
* Check-out is at 08:00.
Once on board, you'll transition seamlessly to the vessel's comfort if your trip starts in Male'. If your journey commences in Dharavandhoo, our dedicated CD team will provide support for your domestic flight arrangements. Upon your arrival at the domestic terminal, our team will be ready to greet you and transfer you to the vessel for the next leg of your adventure.
Day 2 - 4
Embark on three exhilarating dives every day. 5 Night trip includes 1 night fishing, beach BBQ & local island visit. Your diving adventure is complemented by a satisfying spread including Breakfast, Lunch, Afternoon Snacks, and Dinner. Night spent anchored in every atoll mentioned in route.
Day 5
Taking into account your Domestic (if your route ends in Dharavandhoo) or international flight schedule and the cumulative dives completed during the week, the dive team will organize either one or two dives. Enjoy your last lunch and dinner with your new dive buddies. Explore local island after lunch (Subject to weather conditions).
Day 6
At 08:00 am, complete the check-out process as our team accompanies you to Velena International Airport, where your remarkable journey began. If your trip ends in Baa Atoll. Team will transport you to Dharavandhoo accordingly. Depart with cherished memories and newfound dive companions, marking a lifetime of unforgettable experiences.
Itinerary Atolls
Diving in Raa is a thrilling adventure that offers divers a mesmerizing underwater world to explore. Located in the Maldives, Raa Atoll boasts pristine coral reefs, vibrant marine life, and crystal-clear waters. Divers can encounter a diverse array of species, including colorful tropical fish, majestic manta rays, and graceful sea turtles. The atoll features a range of dive sites suitable for all levels of experience, from gentle drift dives to exhilarating deep dives. With its breathtaking beauty and abundant marine biodiversity, Raa Atoll is a paradise for diving enthusiasts.
Diving in Baa offers an incredible underwater experience in the Maldives. Located in the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, the Baa Atoll is renowned for its vibrant marine life and stunning coral reefs. Divers can explore a diverse range of dive sites, including thilas (underwater pinnacles), channels, and coral gardens. Expect encounters with manta rays, whale sharks, turtles, and a variety of colorful fish species. The clear turquoise waters provide excellent visibility, making it an ideal destination for both novice and experienced divers. Immerse yourself in the enchanting underwater world of Baa and create unforgettable diving memories.<br/>
Diving in North Male' is an exhilarating experience that offers divers a glimpse into the underwater wonders of the Maldives. Located in the central region of the Maldives, North Male' Atoll is known for its pristine coral reefs, vibrant marine life, and crystal-clear waters. Divers can explore an array of dive sites teeming with colorful fish, turtles, sharks, and rays. The atoll is also home to stunning thilas (underwater pinnacles) and exciting drift dives, making it a paradise for both beginners and experienced divers seeking adventure beneath the waves.
Included
- Return transfers (pickup & drop-off from Airport (MLE or DRV)
- Refreshing welcome drink upon arrival
- 5 nights’ accommodation aboard our modern, fully equipped vessel
- All meals included — breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks
- Unlimited drinking water, coffee, and tea
- Dives: Total of 11/12 dives — up to 3 dives per day (excluding the arrival day and the day before departure)
- Guided by professional local English-speaking dive guides
- One snorkelling entry to Hanifaru Bay included (seasonal and regulated)
- Beach BBQ (weather and government permitting)
- Traditional Maldivian night fishing experience (weather permitting)
- Local island (weather permitting)
- Nitrox and air tanks (11.5L & 13.5L aluminium, DIN/INT)
- SMB (one per buddy team)
- Reef hooks
- Weights and weight belts
- T-GST 17% + 10% service charge
Excluded
- Any equipment not mentioned under inclusions above
- PADI certified dive courses
- Green tax (US$12.00 per person/per night)
- Soft drinks and alcoholic beverages
- Travel insurance (recommended)
- Dive insurance (Mandatory)
- Domestic flight to/from Dharavandhoo Airport (required for this itinerary)
- Wi-Fi (Available on board at additional cost)