Cocoa Dream

This dive site, Cocoa Dream, is renowned as one of the finest drift dives in the Maldives, connecting Cocoa Corner to Kandooma Thila. It's an exhilarating drift where divers are carried along by currents, often light incoming, though variable conditions from mild to strong can occur. The dive is usually navigated by following the reef edge or the thila, allowing divers to observe the abundant marine life brought in by the currents. While specific historical details aren't provided, its fame stems from its reliable big fish encounters, making it a staple on many Maldivian liveaboard itineraries. The site is a hotspot for pelagic species and a vibrant array of reef dwellers. Divers frequently encounter majestic Grey reef sharks and inquisitive White tip sharks patrolling the currents. Other large pelagic species include powerful Tunas and Giant Trevallies, along with graceful Eagle Rays and gentle Turtles. Large Napoleon wrasses are also a common sight. The reef itself hosts diverse schools of fish, contributing to a rich and dynamic underwater ecosystem. Coral formations, though not explicitly detailed, are typical of healthy Maldivian thilas, providing shelter and food for countless smaller creatures. The best time to visit Cocoa Dream typically aligns with the dry season (December to May) when conditions are generally calmer and visibility is at its peak, though big animal sightings can occur year-round. Divers should be proficient in drift diving and comfortable with varying current strengths, as the dive is not recommended during genuinely strong currents. For photographers, a wide-angle lens is essential to capture the impressive pelagic action and schooling fish. Freedivers might find the variable currents challenging, making it primarily a scuba diving destination where the current guides the experience.