ploring this site may involve visiting a different hemisphere as part of the itinerary. The Vilingili and Koodhoo channels often feature magnificent walls of grey reef sharks and the less frequently seen spinner sharks. On the reefs of Gemanafushi, there is the possibility of seeing hammerhead sharks. Fuvahmulah is famous for tiger sharks, silvertips and thresher sharks. Whale sharks are also a possibility in the south. The Southern Atolls cover a large section of ocean with many islands and dive sites. Additional highlights include: Ari Atoll: Divers may enjoy whale shark encounters and manta cleaning stations. Vaavu Atoll: Alimathaa Pier is a famous nurse shark dive, often conducted at night. Here, dozens of nurse sharks can be observed along with large black jacks and other predatory fish that move in for opportunistic meals. Thaa Atoll: Whale sharks occasionally appear at night, creating a remarkable encounter for divers. Laamu Atoll: Fushi Kandu, and Isdhoo Muli are sites where divers may occasionally find groups of spotted eagle rays. Southern Atolls Summary The Southern Atolls are often regarded as having some of the most exciting dive locations in the entire Maldives. Strong currents combined with big-animal interactions create conditions suitable for advanced divers, and divers from around the globe dream of the opportunity to swim with tiger sharks, thresher sharks, whale sharks, and spinner sharks. While diving throughout the Maldives is spectacular, the Southern Atolls are more remote and less often visited, which can make them feel more pristine. For travel professionals, this is the region to position for experienced divers seeking high-energy diving, shark encounters, remote itineraries, and a more adventurous Maldives experience. Putting the Maldives Together for Your Customers The Maldives is not one simple product. It is a collection of regions, atolls, islands, operators, and experiences. That is what makes it powerful for travel sellers, but it is also what makes it important to position correctly. The Central Atolls are ideal for first-time visitors, classic Maldives experiences, convenient transfers, and a wide mix of reefs, pelagics, and resort or liveaboard options. The Northern Atolls are well suited for customers seeking fewer crowds, manta aggregation opportunities, pristine reefs, and a more remote feel without necessarily moving into the most advanced diving conditions. TRAVEL FEATURE continued
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