Bandos Rock

This dive site, Bandos Rock, is located on the house reef of Bandos Island Resort. This site presents a dynamic underwater landscape, beginning with a vibrant top reef at 3 to 5 meters, which then descends rather steeply along a wall to a sandy bottom reaching depths beyond 30 meters. Divers can navigate along the wall, exploring numerous natural features including several intriguing caves, interesting overhangs, a prominent pinnacle, and a distinct canyon. While the site does not possess a documented historical narrative or specific backstory, its natural geological formations offer a fascinating journey for exploration. The biodiversity at Bandos Rock is impressive, attracting both macro enthusiasts and those seeking larger marine encounters. In the blue, divers often spot black and white tip reef sharks, fast-moving tunas, and occasionally the graceful presence of eagle rays. Within the protective confines of the caves and overhangs, a hidden world of smaller creatures thrives, including various lobsters, diligent cleaner shrimps, elegant lionfish, and several species of moray eels. The hard coral formations, particularly the large table corals, add significant beauty to the reef's structure. Bandos Rock, being a house reef, offers year-round diving, though the best conditions typically align with the Maldives' dry season from December to April, promising excellent visibility and calmer waters. This site is highly recommended for all levels of divers due to its accessible shallow reef and rewarding deeper sections. Snorkelers and freedivers will also find the vibrant top reef particularly appealing. While currents are generally moderate, divers should always be mindful of conditions, especially when venturing along the exposed wall, as currents can enhance encounters with pelagic species.