With nearly 2000 coral reefs, outcrops and sandbars to its name it is no surprise that the Maldives is considered the coral capital of the world. This is why avid snorkelers and scuba divers from across the globe descend on this paradise island enclave for an underwater excursion within its 26 natural atolls. It is believed that the sheer enormity of the Maldivian coral heritage is due to a volcanic eruption that occurred centuries ago which jolted the ocean floor forming and leaving behind breathtaking coral reefs along its destructive path.
The Maldives is in fact a part of a mountain range beneath the surface of the ocean that stretches across the Chagos Islands, Lakshadweep Islands and several others. Ensconced in the coral reefs one finds captivating lagoons while the corals have grown around the tips of the underwater mountain region. Home to one of the world’s most extensive and complicated coral reef networks, the variety of marine life that inhabits the reefs is equally impressive. It is said that nearly a thousand fish species including sharks and planktons reside within Maldivian coral reefs. Scientists have also identified nearly 200 types of corals within the island enclave making its coral heritage diverse as it is expansive.
A veritable treasure trove for deep sea divers and snorkelers, it is astounding that almost every atoll in the Maldives contains faros reefs, reef channels, interior lagoons, rims and massive reefs. Liveboard diving remains the preferred diving method within the islands as the sea’s currents are used to propel one from one point to another. Divers exploring the Maldivian sea bed can expect to catch more than a glimpse of barracudas, sweetlips, jacks and Napoleon wrasses while parrot fish and snappers also encountered by many a traveller.
Some of the best diving sites on the islands are contained in the channels where caverns, overhangs and deep sea caves ensconce a large variety of marine species including gorgonian fans, invertebrates and colourful sponges. Teeming with sessile marine animals the ‘Thilas’ are the areas within atoll lagoons in which summits of rocks nearly reach the surface of the ocean. Renowned as verdant regions where soft corals thrive on natural nourishment levelled by crashing water bodies, these regions usually boast a list of inhabitants that include crustaceans’ fish varieties.
If it’s a luxurious Maldives island hotel one’s looking for there’s no finer alternative to the Velassaru Maldives. Whether its vibrant villas, charming suites or enchanting water bungalows this stylish Maldives resort offers guests the absolute best in island accommodation.