Hanifaru Bay

Best time to dive

May to December

What you might see

• Manta rayLikely
• Whale sharkLikely

Sightings are seasonal probabilities, not promises - even in peak season nature does its own thing.

Certification & difficulty

Open Water

Snorkelling

Snorkel-friendly - Yes - snorkeling is the ONLY permitted in-water activity; scuba diving is banned in the bay

Safety notes

Crowding limits enforced; strong currents during feeding events; jellyfish/plankton stings possible during blooms

Permits & fees

Marine Protected Area since 2009, UNESCO Biosphere Reserve since 2011; entry token $20-30/visitor via Dharavandhoo Visitor Centre or resort/liveaboard booking; max 45 min in-water time; max 45 snorkelers at once; max 10 snorkelers per licensed guide; max 5 vessels on site (excl. ranger boat); no fishing; liveaboards must shuttle guests, cannot dock directly

Permits and operators change - confirm before booking.

Location

Nearest hub: Dharavandhoo