Dive sites in Hanifaru Bay

Top Dive Sites

Hanifaru Bay

Description: Hanifaru Bay is the jewel in the crown of the Baa Atoll and a magnet for divers and snorkelers alike. This small bay, shaped like a funnel, sets the stage for one of the most extraordinary wildlife spectacles in the ocean. The bay’s unique topography—featuring shallow, sandy bottoms encased by coral reefs—creates the ideal environment for incredible marine encounters.

Marine Species: The primary allure of Hanifaru Bay is its seasonal gatherings of manta rays and whale sharks. During the southwest monsoon season, typically from May to November, plankton blooms fill the bay, attracting hundreds of manta rays and scores of whale sharks. Additionally, you can expect to see a variety of reef fish, including parrotfish, butterflyfish, and surgeonfish, among others.

Unique Encounters: Hanifaru Bay is perhaps best known for the phenomenon of “cyclone feeding,” where large groups of manta rays swim in a spiraling formation to efficiently consume plankton. This breathtaking spectacle can involve dozens, if not hundreds, of manta rays. The bay is also one of the few places globally where you can see whale sharks and manta rays feeding side by side.

Photography: The opportunities for underwater photography in Hanifaru Bay are unparalleled. The shallow, clear waters provide ideal lighting and visibility for capturing the mesmerizing dances of mantas and the majestic presence of whale sharks. A wide-angle lens is indispensable for capturing the grandeur of these large gatherings, while fast shutter speeds will help freeze the dynamic movement of the rays.

Suitability: While diving in Hanifaru Bay is regulated to protect the delicate marine environment, snorkeling is the most common way to experience this incredible site. The shallow depths make it accessible for snorkelers and free divers of all skill levels, but due to the high levels of activity, those comfortable with frequent and close encounters with large marine life will get the most out of their experience.

Dhonfanu Thila

Description: Located near Hanifaru Bay, Dhonfanu Thila is a vibrant dive site featuring a submerged seamount that rises from deeper waters. This site is famous for its beautiful coral gardens, overhangs, and the diverse marine life it attracts. The thila (underwater pinnacle) is covered in an array of colorful corals and sponges, making it visually stunning.

Marine Species: Dhonfanu Thila is home to a myriad of marine species, including schools of bannerfish, fusiliers, and damselfish. Larger species such as barracudas, tunas, and jacks are also frequently seen patrolling the waters. The coral formations provide habitat for moray eels, lobsters, and various species of nudibranchs.

Unique Encounters: The highlight of Dhonfanu Thila is the opportunity to witness large pelagic species against the backdrop of vibrant coral gardens. The site’s overhangs and small caverns create hiding spots for reef sharks, making it a thrilling dive for those looking to encounter these graceful predators.

Photography: Dhonfanu Thila offers rich opportunities for both macro and wide-angle photography. Capture the colorful coral gardens and schooling fish with a wide-angle lens, or switch to a macro setup to photograph the intricate details of nudibranchs and other small marine creatures. Excellent visibility enhances the quality of your underwater shots.

Suitability: Dhonfanu Thila is suitable for intermediate to advanced divers due to its depth and the occasional strong currents. The diverse topography requires good buoyancy control and navigation skills to explore the site fully.

Fan Reef

Description: Fan Reef, located a short distance from Hanifaru Bay, is celebrated for its beautiful fan corals and the rich biodiversity it supports. This reef stretches along a gently sloping wall adorned with large sea fans and soft corals, creating a picturesque underwater landscape.

Marine Species: The reef is home to an array of reef fish including angelfish, butterflyfish, and clownfish. Larger visitors such as eagle rays and reef sharks also make appearances. The coral formations are teeming with invertebrate life, including shrimp, crabs, and colorful anemones.

Unique Encounters: Divers at Fan Reef can experience the beauty of swimming through forests of sea fans, which provide shelter for numerous fish species and marine critters. The reef’s topography, including small overhangs and crevices, offers prime spots for discovering hidden marine life.

Photography: The stunning sea fans and the lively reef environment make Fan Reef ideal for wide-angle and macro photography. Capture the elegance of the sea fans in wide shots or focus on the detailed interactions of fish and invertebrates with macro lenses. The reef’s vibrant colors and clear waters add to the quality of the photos.

Suitability: Fan Reef is suitable for divers of all levels. The moderate depth and gentle slope make it accessible for beginners, while the intricate coral structures provide plenty of interest for more experienced divers. It’s an excellent site for honing buoyancy control and underwater navigation.

Considerations for Each Dive Site

Water Temperature: The water temperature in Hanifaru Bay and its surrounding dive sites is pleasantly warm year-round, typically ranging from 27°C to 30°C (81°F to 86°F). This makes it a highly attractive destination for divers who prefer diving in warmer waters without the need for thick wetsuits. A 3mm wetsuit is generally sufficient for comfort during extended dive sessions.

Visibility: Visibility in Hanifaru Bay can vary greatly depending on the season and water conditions. During the peak manta ray season, visibility ranges from 10 to 30 meters (33 to 100 feet). While plankton blooms that attract mantas and whale sharks can reduce visibility, they also enhance the chance of memorable wildlife encounters. For surrounding dive sites like Dhonfanu Thila and Fan Reef, visibility tends to be clearer, ranging from 20 to 40 meters (65 to 130 feet), especially during the dry season from December to April.

Currents and Tides: Currents at Hanifaru Bay and the surrounding dive sites can vary, with some areas experiencing strong currents, particularly during tidal changes. Hanifaru Bay itself can have moderate currents that help aggregate the plankton, making it easier to spot mantas and whale sharks. Sites like Dhonfanu Thila may experience stronger currents, adding a thrilling drift element to the dives. It’s essential to plan dives according to tidal schedules and current predictions, and always dive with a local guide familiar with the conditions.

Safety Tips: Safety is paramount, especially in dynamic environments like Hanifaru Bay. Always dive with a buddy and maintain clear communication. For snorkeling in Hanifaru Bay, be mindful of other snorkelers and divers to avoid collisions. When diving at deeper sites with strong currents, such as Dhonfanu Thila, ensure that you have good buoyancy control and carry a surface marker buoy (SMB) for safety. It’s also wise to remain aware of your surroundings to avoid potential entanglements with sea fans or coral formations. Following local guidelines and protocols will enhance your safety and enjoyment.

Regulations: Hanifaru Bay is part of the Baa Atoll UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, and strict regulations are in place to protect its unique marine ecosystem. Diving directly in Hanifaru Bay is prohibited; instead, snorkeling is allowed under controlled conditions to minimize environmental impact. Visitors must obtain permits and adhere to the site’s rules, including maintaining a safe distance from marine life and not touching or disturbing the animals. Dive sites around Hanifaru Bay, like Dhonfanu Thila and Fan Reef, also fall under conservation regulations, which include no-fishing zones and restrictions on collecting marine life. Respecting these rules helps preserve the pristine conditions and ensures that future generations can enjoy these underwater wonders.

Wrap Up

Hanifaru Bay in the Baa Atoll is truly a diver and snorkeler’s paradise, offering some of the most incredible marine wildlife encounters on the planet. From the majestic mantas and awe-inspiring whale sharks in Hanifaru Bay to the vibrant coral gardens and rich biodiversity of surrounding sites like Dhonfanu Thila and Fan Reef, this region promises unforgettable underwater experiences. Each dive site offers unique features, whether it’s the exhilarating currents of Dhonfanu Thila or the serene beauty of Fan Reef’s coral formations.

By understanding the specific conditions and regulations of each site, you can maximize your enjoyment and ensure the conservation of these precious marine environments. With warm water temperatures, varying visibility, and the occasional strong currents, Hanifaru Bay and its neighboring dive sites provide challenges and rewards for divers of all skill levels. Adhering to safety protocols and respecting local conservation efforts will help maintain these wonderlands for future generations.

Prepare your gear, plan your dives, and get ready to immerse yourself in the extraordinary underwater world of Hanifaru Bay. It’s a destination that not only promises exhilarating marine encounters but also leaves you with memories that will last a lifetime.