Kottefaru Kanmathi

This dive site, Kottefaru Kanmathi, offers a superb drift diving experience along the island of Kottefaru in the Maldives. Divers follow a top reef composed of hard corals, which begins at a depth of 4-8 meters and gradually slopes down to 15 meters, before transitioning into a dramatic wall that plunges far beyond 30 meters. The dive is a continuous drift over several hundred meters, guided by the natural currents, making navigation straightforward as divers observe the rich marine ecosystem along the reef structure. No specific history or known stories are associated with the site. Kottefaru Kanmathi is teeming with an impressive array of marine life. Macro enthusiasts will find a wealth of small subjects, while larger inhabitants include numerous fish, Napoleon wrasse, and various species of turtles. The site is a known hunting ground for gray reef sharks and silvertip sharks. Most notably, between June and November, the top reef transforms into an active cleaning station, attracting majestic manta rays, making it a truly exceptional encounter. Very rarely, lucky divers might even spot hammerhead sharks. The prime time to experience Kottefaru Kanmathi, especially for its renowned manta ray cleaning station, is between June and November. This period offers the best chances for close encounters with these magnificent creatures. For scuba divers, the site provides a thrilling drift dive suitable for intermediates due to the potential currents and depth variations along the wall. Freedivers can also greatly enjoy the shallower sections of the reef where mantas gather, while snorkelers will find the vibrant top reef and visible large marine life easily accessible and highly rewarding from the surface.