Bathala Island, a small oval shaped picture post card like Maldivian island in the North Ari Atoll, approximately 150 m long and 300 m wide still retains the natural beauty and much of the charm that first attracted holidaymakers to the site. The island is endowed with a beautiful white beach and a thriving house reef that is said to be one of the best in the country. The Protected Marine Areas of Maaya Thila, the premier location to spot white tip reef sharks and Fish Head Thila which is a cleaning station for grey reef sharks is also in close proximity. During favourable currents even less experienced divers can enjoy the wonderful underwater landscape here but when it is strong it is recommended only for advanced divers.
Bathala Island’s house reef made up of different species of colourful coral and shoals of fish of astounding variety is certainly among the best. Being small, the island’s underwater landscape can be explored in one long drift dive. The sun drenched waters of the reef with caves, terraces and cliffs on its slopes harbour butterfly fish, surgeon fish, large imposing parrot fish, schools of sweet lips, a myriad of iridescent green chromis, blue toothed triggers, snappers and large groupers. Divers may also come across shoals of fusiliers fluttering in the current, banner fish, blue face angel fish, Moorish idols, batfish, lion fish, stone fish and even large turtles.
They are found hiding amongst the coral and in deep crevices or foraging for plankton in the currents that swirl about the reef, their numbers swelling and decreasing according to the seasons. Trigger fish, big jack fish and moray eels have been seen foraging by the jetty too. Sting rays here are known to be nosy and sometime come close to investigate divers. An occasional eagle ray has been spotted in the southern part of the island. This abundance of marine life and the crystalline water makes the house reef here very special for snorkelers and divers. Night dives allow a look into the nocturnal habits of white tip reef sharks, moray eels, turtles, octopuses and stone fish. To appreciate the beauty of the underwater world at Bathala Island no elaborate gear is needed. A silicone mask to keep the water out and to improve vision, some flippers and a breathing tube is all that is needed to enable visitors to enter a magical world where hours can be spent in happy exploration.
Anantara Veli Maldives offers its guests the very things they have come to experience. A selection of well laid out Maldives bungalows offering living spaces designed for relaxation and privacy, beautiful views, restaurants that cater to the high expectations of its guests, specially formulated soothing spa treatments and water sports and diving expeditions tailored to provide the optimum Maldives experience. Stay at this fabulous Maldives resort to make the most of your holiday.