TRAVEL FEATURE continued
in Baa Atoll or Hanimadhoo in Haa Dhaalu for resorts in the far north. Resort transfers must be pre-booked and are coordinated based on international flight arrival times. One of the distinctions of the Northern Atolls is the lack
As with any travel to the Maldives, the Northern Atolls offer both liveaboard and resort-based diving options. The number can change, but there are close to 20 liveaboards that service the Northern Atolls, along with a number of higher-end resorts.
of crowds. The Central Atolls can be bustling with boats and resorts, and some famous sites can feel crowded at times. In the north, there are far fewer boats and visitors. Often, divers may be the only boat visible for days. That sense of space and re- moteness is one of the region’s strongest selling points. For cus- tomers who have already visited the Central Atolls, or for divers seeking a quieter Maldives ex- perience, the north offers a differ- ent tone: less traffic, pristine reefs and a stronger feeling of exploration. When Is the Best Time to Visit the Northern Atolls? December to April provides the best visibility and calmest seas. May to November is ideal for manta ray aggregation in Baa Atoll. With a tropical climate and warm temperatures year-round, the Northern Atolls can be dived at any time. Water temperatures typically range from 80 to 86 degrees Fahrenheit. January through April offers great visi- bility and brings the driest and warmest months. For travel professionals, sea- sonal planning matters. Man- ta-focused itineraries, especially those centered around Baa Atoll,
Luxury Yacht Maldives, Ag- gressor Fleet, Blue Force, and Emperor Fleet are all options for divers. Luxury Yacht Mal- dives, along with other live- aboards, can be a strong choice for divers looking to experience large manta ray aggregations in Hanifaru Bay in Baa Atoll. There are numerous resort op- tions across a wide spectrum of costs and amenities in the North- ern Atolls. Planning a trip here requires careful research into the cost, offerings, and dive op- tions for any resort under con- sideration. For retailers and travel sellers, this region may appeal to cus- tomers who want a more remote or premium experience, espe- cially those interested in mantas, pristine reefs, and fewer crowds. Northern Atolls Diving Highlights Diving in the Northern Atolls is appropriate for many skill levels. As throughout the Mal- dives, currents can be strong at times, but dive guides typically plan for this when selecting dive sites. Depths range from 60 feet to 120 feet depending on the site. The Northern Atolls cover a large section of ocean with many islands and dive sites. Highlights
should be timed carefully and described honestly. Wildlife is never guaranteed, but visiting during the best seasonal windows increases the likelihood of memorable encounters. Liveaboard or Land-Based?
include: Baa Atoll: A UNESCO Biosphere Reserve famous for Hanifaru Bay, where visitors may experience large aggregations of manta rays and whale sharks. Dhigali Haa is a submerged
FORTY-FOUR | SCUBA DIVING INDUSTRY
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