Fuvahmulah
Fuvahmulah, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, is a unique solitary atoll in the southern Maldives. Its deep oceanic channels and direct exposure to the open ocean attract an incredible concentration of pelagic life. Unlike typical Maldivian destinations, Fuvahmulah is celebrated not for its coral gardens but for high-voltage, big animal action. The island's topography creates a cleaning station and nursery, offering reliable, year-round encounters with multiple shark species, most notably a resident population of tiger sharks, making it a truly world-class diving hotspot.
Diving conditions here are best suited for experienced divers, often featuring strong currents and deep profiles. The reward for navigating these waters is unparalleled, with consistent sightings of tiger, thresher, and oceanic whitetip sharks, alongside seasonal whale sharks and manta rays. With warm water year-round and excellent visibility, particularly during the dry season from December to April, divers visit Fuvahmulah, Maldives for the guaranteed thrill of encountering a diverse cast of oceanic giants in one of the most unique marine ecosystems on the planet.
Top Sites
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the most popular dive site in Fuvahmulah, Maldives?
The most famous dive site is 'Tiger Zoo' (or Tiger Harbour). Its popularity stems from the almost guaranteed, close-up encounters with a resident population of tiger sharks. This is a baited dive, carefully managed by local operators, that provides a safe and reliable way for divers to observe these magnificent predators in their natural environment. It is the signature dive of Fuvahmulah, Maldives and the primary reason many divers visit the island.
What are the good and less popular dive sites in Fuvahmulah, Maldives?
Besides the famous Tiger Zoo, Fuvahmulah Corner is a well-known site for its strong currents and pelagic action, including grey reef sharks and large schools of fish. A less-frequented but highly rewarding site is Thresher Point, where divers can have incredible encounters with resident thresher sharks, typically during dawn dives. Exploring the island's plateau offers chances to see oceanic whitetips and silky sharks away from the main crowds, providing a different kind of thrill for divers in Fuvahmulah, Maldives.
What water temperature is it like throughout the year diving in Fuvahmulah, Maldives?
The water temperature in Fuvahmulah, Maldives is consistently warm and tropical year-round, typically ranging from 27°C to 30°C (80°F to 86°F). Deeper dives, especially on the ocean-facing reefs, can occasionally feature thermoclines that bring slightly cooler water up from the depths. However, conditions remain comfortable for diving throughout the year, with minimal seasonal fluctuation in the surface temperatures.
When is the best time to visit Fuvahmulah, Maldives?
Diving in Fuvahmulah, Maldives is excellent year-round. The prime season is the Northeast Monsoon (dry season) from December to April, which offers the calmest seas and best visibility. The Southwest Monsoon (wet season) from May to November can bring rougher surface conditions but also plankton-rich waters, increasing the chances of encountering whale sharks and manta rays. Big pelagic shark action is consistent throughout the year.
What's the visibility like during the dive season in Fuvahmulah, Maldives?
Underwater visibility in Fuvahmulah, Maldives is generally excellent, often exceeding 30 meters (100 feet), especially during the dry season from December to April. During the wet season (May to November), visibility can occasionally be reduced due to plankton blooms. However, this plankton-rich water is what attracts filter feeders like manta rays and whale sharks, so it presents a trade-off between clarity and potential encounters.
Are there any seasonal migrations or special events (e.g., manta rays, whale sharks) in Fuvahmulah, Maldives?
While tiger and thresher sharks are resident year-round, Fuvahmulah, Maldives does have seasonal visitors. Manta rays and whale sharks are more commonly sighted during the Southwest Monsoon (May to November) when plankton is more abundant. Oceanic whitetip sharks are also frequently seen, particularly in the deeper, open-water sites. Hammerhead sharks can also make seasonal appearances, adding to the incredible diversity of pelagic encounters.
What marine life can I expect to see in Fuvahmulah, Maldives?
Fuvahmulah, Maldives is a pelagic paradise. You can expect to see tiger sharks, thresher sharks, oceanic whitetip sharks, silky sharks, and grey reef sharks. Hammerheads are also a possibility. Seasonal visitors include whale sharks and oceanic manta rays. Divers will also encounter massive schools of barracuda, giant trevally, and yellowfin tuna. Mola mola (ocean sunfish) are also occasionally spotted in the deeper, cooler waters.
What thickness wetsuit should I wear in Fuvahmulah, Maldives?
With water temperatures between 27-30°C (80-86°F), a 3mm full wetsuit is recommended for most divers in Fuvahmulah, Maldives. This provides sufficient warmth for multiple dives and protection from the sun and potential scrapes. Some divers may be comfortable in a shorty or even a rash guard, but a full suit is a good all-around choice, especially if you tend to get cold or are doing deeper dives where thermoclines can occur.
How do I get to Fuvahmulah, Maldives?
To get to Fuvahmulah, Maldives, you first fly into Velana International Airport (MLE) in the capital, Malé. From Malé, you will take a domestic flight to Fuvahmulah Airport (FVM). The flight duration is approximately 90 minutes. Upon arrival at FVM, your chosen guesthouse or dive operator will typically arrange for a short transfer to your accommodation.
Should I book a liveaboard or stay on shore in Fuvahmulah, Maldives?
Shore-based diving is the most common and practical option for Fuvahmulah, Maldives. Staying in a local guesthouse allows for a more immersive cultural experience and provides dedicated, flexible access to all of the island's unique dive sites. While some 'deep south' liveaboards include Fuvahmulah on their itineraries, a land-based stay ensures you have ample time to experience everything this special atoll has to offer, including multiple dives at key sites like Tiger Zoo.