Located in the southern part of the Maldives, Thinadhoo is the capital of the Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll and is best known as a diver’s paradise with an abundance of sites for underwater explorations that reveal a thriving marine world below. If you are planning to embark on an underwater adventure of your own at Thinadhoo, here are some of the island’s best dive sites to consider.
Thinadhoo – The Home of Fotteyo Falhu
If you’ve arrived on the island from the Nh Collection Maldives or any of the neighbouring beach villas in Maldives, and are only staying for a few days, exploring the Fotteyo Falhu is the best way to spend your time there. It is the largest unbroken barrier reef in the Maldives, extending up to 50 kilometres and featuring several deep channels known as Kandus that bring in fast-flowing currents. You can explore the reef in three separate places – the Miyaru Kandu, the Golden Wall and Foltevo Kandu.
Miyaru Kandu
This channel dive site has a depth of 10 to 40 metres and features several caves on either side with plenty of overhangs. The channel has been deemed a protected marine area as it is home to a variety of marine species. These include tuna, grey reef sharks, white tip reef sharks, Napolean Wrasse and more.
Golden Wall
As its name implies this dive site features multiple vertical walls, overhangs and caves. Moreover, along the reef’s exterior divers will find the wall covered with yellow sponges that give it a majestic golden appearance. Other caves and overhauls feature various green, pink and yellow soft corals making this one of the most mesmerising dive sites in the region.
Fotteyo Kandu
This is yet another site where you can witness a wide array of marine species including eagle rays, triggerfish, potato groupers, grey reef sharks, tuna, barracuda, swordfish and more. With a depth of 10 to 30 metres, the site also features several soft and hard corals in vibrant colours.
