Kottefaru Bodu Thila

This dive site, Kottefaru Bodu Thila, is an underwater pinnacle (thila) located in the Maldives, accessible after a 35-minute boat ride. It is renowned for offering easy diving, even in the presence of currents, allowing divers to comfortably observe its rich marine life. Divers typically navigate around the thila, focusing on specific cleaning blocks where various species congregate, and exploring the west corner for deeper encounters. The primary draw of Kottefaru Bodu Thila is the magnificent Manta Rays, which are frequently seen here from July to November, utilizing the cleaning stations. Sweetlips can also be found on these cleaning blocks, adding to the reef's biodiversity. Deeper, towards the west corner of the thila, divers have the opportunity to encounter Grey Reef Sharks. The Maldivian waters surrounding the thila are also home to diverse reef fish and various coral species, typical of a healthy coral ecosystem. For the best Manta Ray encounters, the optimal time to visit this dive site is between July and November. Its maximum depth of 16 meters and an average depth of 8 meters, combined with the 'easy diving' conditions, make it suitable for divers of all experience levels, including beginners. Freedivers and snorkelers will also find Kottefaru Bodu Thila highly rewarding, especially during Manta season, due to the accessible depths and the impressive presence of large pelagic animals close to the surface.