Question 1

When is the best time to scuba dive in the Maldives?

Accepted Answer

For the easiest all-round conditions, plan Dec to Apr. Many central-atoll sites get calmer crossings and clearer water, often {{ 20 | visibility:m }} to {{ 30 | visibility:m }}, with warm temperatures around {{ 27 | temperature }} to {{ 29 | temperature }}. May to Nov can still be excellent, but expect more wind and occasional squalls. The tradeoff is wildlife: western sides often see more plankton and more mantas in that season. If you are flexible, pick your atoll side and daily schedule around tide and wind rather than treating any month as a total yes or no.

Question 2

When is manta ray season in the Maldives?

Accepted Answer

Mantas are possible year-round, but the headline season is often May to Nov when southwest-season plankton builds on western atoll sides. Baa Atoll is the most famous example, with managed snorkeling sessions at [Hanifaru Bay](https://divejourney.io/dive-spots/maldives-hanifaru-bay). Expect stricter rules than a normal snorkel trip: guided entry, no touching or chasing, and time limits in the water. If you visit outside the peak window, ask about manta cleaning stations in your atoll, which can still produce great encounters on the right tide.

Question 3

When can I see whale sharks in the Maldives?

Accepted Answer

Whale sharks are a year-round possibility in the Maldives, with South Ari often treated as the most consistent region. Many operators search along reef edges and protected zones such as [Maamigili Beyru](https://divejourney.io/dive-spots/maldives-maamigili-beyru). Success is never guaranteed, but calm seas make spotting easier and reduce fatigue in the water. Bring sun protection and listen closely to the briefing, as responsible encounters depend on keeping distance, limiting flash photography, and letting the animal choose the interaction.

Question 4

How do I choose between a resort, a local island, and a liveaboard in the Maldives?

Accepted Answer

Choose a resort if you want the simplest logistics, great house-reef snorkeling, and a schedule that works for mixed groups. Choose a local island if you want better value and do not mind simpler hotels and more planning for meals and transfers. Choose a liveaboard if your priority is variety: linking Male, Ari, and Vaavu (and sometimes Baa) lets you dive more kandus and thilas without re-packing. If you are current-sensitive or get seasick, pick shorter crossings and a route matched to the season.

Question 5

How strong are currents in the Maldives, and do I need a reef hook?

Accepted Answer

Currents can range from gentle to very strong, especially in kandus and around corners. The same site may feel mellow at slack tide and intense on a strong incoming flow. Many divers carry a reef hook, but it should only be used when a guide instructs you and only on dead rock, never on living coral. If you are newer to current, start with thilas and protected reefs, practice quick descents, and always carry an SMB for drift pickups.

Question 6

Do I need a wetsuit in the Maldives?

Accepted Answer

Most people do not need heavy thermal protection. Water is commonly {{ 27 | temperature }} to {{ 30 | temperature }}, so comfort is usually about sun and repetitive diving rather than cold. Many divers are happy in a rashguard or light suit, but if you are doing multiple dives per day for a week, you might appreciate more coverage for long bottom times and boat wind. For snorkeling, a rashguard also helps prevent sunburn and minor reef scrapes.

Question 7

How do I get to Baa Atoll and Hanifaru Bay?

Accepted Answer

Most routes start at Velana International Airport (MLE) near Male. From there, Baa Atoll is commonly reached by seaplane or a domestic flight to Dharavandhoo (DRV) followed by a short speedboat transfer. To enter [Hanifaru Bay](https://divejourney.io/dive-spots/maldives-hanifaru-bay), you typically go with a licensed operator who handles the token and timing. Because seaplanes are usually daylight-only, plan arrival times that do not force an overnight in the Male area if you are aiming for a specific manta day.

Question 8

What are the Hanifaru Bay snorkeling rules I should expect?

Accepted Answer

[Hanifaru Bay](https://divejourney.io/dive-spots/maldives-hanifaru-bay) is managed to protect mantas and whale sharks during feeding events. Expect snorkeling-only sessions with a guide, no scuba diving, and strict behavior rules: do not chase, touch, or block an animal's path. Operators typically run timed entries, so punctuality matters. If you are not a strong swimmer, mention it when you book so the guide can recommend a float option or a calmer day. The goal is a safe, low-stress encounter for you and the animals.

Question 9

How do I submit the Maldives Traveller Declaration (IMUGA)?

Accepted Answer

Complete the Traveller Declaration online using the official IMUGA portal within 96 hours before your flight time for arrival. Many travelers also submit a declaration before departure, so check your airline and operator instructions. Fill in your passport details, travel dates, and accommodation, then save the confirmation (screenshot or QR code) for check-in. If you are traveling across multiple islands, use the first accommodation you will stay at and keep your itinerary handy in case staff ask for clarification.

Question 10

What emergency numbers should I save when traveling in the Maldives?

Accepted Answer

Save local emergency contacts in your phone before you get on a boat. Commonly listed numbers include Police 119, Fire and Rescue 118, and the National Ambulance Service 100. For maritime issues, the Coast Guard is often listed as 191. If you are diving, also store your dive operator's emergency contact and your dive-insurance hotline, since the fastest path to help may involve coordination for oxygen, evacuation, and the nearest hyperbaric chamber.

Atoll-hopping drifts, manta seasons, and effortless lagoon days

The Maldives water story

Where to dive by region (quick picks)

How seasons really work (and why east vs west matters)

Rules that affect your day on the water

Choosing your trip style (resort, local island, liveaboard)

A simple first-timer plan

Activity highlights