Also known as Gaathugiri, the Banana Reef in the Maldives is a 300m-long banana-shaped section in Kuda Kalhi in the North Male Atoll. It is famed as one of the earliest dive sites discovered in the Maldives.
The reef
Banana Reef is renowned for its picturesque underwater caves and hanging cliffs. However, nothing beats the resplendent soft coral beds and multi-hued marine life. The reef is ideal for snorkeling and diving for beginners and experts. It boasts tranquil, mild currents and spectacular underwater visibility.
Best time to visit
The reef can be visited all year round, but the perfect time to explore its treasures at their best is between November-April. Many luxury Maldives resorts, the likes of OZEN Life Maadhoo, organize snorkeling excursions to reefs such as this.
Marine life
So, what’s beneath? Schools of bannerfish swimming by you, anemone fish and emperor angelfish darting between the soft coral beds and groupers hiding inside the caves. Other species include oriental sweetlips, squirrelfish, snappers, eagle rays and sharks.
Water activities
Snorkeling and diving are popular activities at the reef. You can dive between 5-30m, and the visibility remains clear even at 30m. Snorkel at the northern end of the reef or dive at the eastern end to discover caves and corals. The reef’s south has stronger currents and thick greenery and is not ideal for beginner divers. Drift diving can be done from the east and northwest points of the reef.