Ari Atoll

Most visitors land at Velana International Airport (MLE) near Male and continue by seaplane, domestic flight, or speedboat. Seaplanes are common for resort islands and typically run in daylight only, so late arrivals may overnight near the airport. For South Ari, a domestic flight to Maamigili (VAM) plus a short speedboat can be faster and less weather-sensitive. Always coordinate transfers through your resort or guesthouse, and remember seaplanes often have strict baggage limits.

You should assume whale shark interactions in South Ari are managed under SAMPA procedures rather than being a free-for-all. Most excursions are booked through your resort or dive center and operate with ranger coordination, guide ratios, and time management when multiple boats arrive. In the water, key rules include keeping 3 m from the whale shark's body and 4 m from the tail, with no touching and no flash photography. Excursions typically run only between 06:00 and 18:00.

Open Water is enough for many Ari Atoll dives, especially shallower thilas and protected house reefs. That said, the best action often sits on current-fed corners, and some operators prefer Advanced Open Water or proof of recent drift experience for channel dives. Typical profiles are around 12 m to 30 m, but currents can increase workload quickly. If you have nitrox certification, it is a strong add-on for repetitive days on mid-depth thilas and wrecks.

Currents vary by tide and site. On thila corners and channel edges they can be mild one day and fast the next, with occasional downcurrents on outer reef walls. Choose an operator that briefs clearly and uses a descent line when needed. Carry an SMB and know how to deploy it, because many dives end as drifts with dhoni pickup. If you are not comfortable, ask for easier sites or stay on the sheltered side of the reef and keep dives conservative.

Most people are comfortable in tropical exposure protection. Water is commonly 27°C to 30°C, so a 3mm full suit or shorty works for many divers, especially if you do one or two dives a day. If you run cold or plan four dives a day, consider a 5mm or a 3mm plus a hooded vest. Snorkelers often prefer a rashguard for sun protection. Bring something that protects against jellyfish, sun, and coral scrapes.

A resort base is the simplest: divers can do morning dhoni trips while non-divers book spa time, lagoons, sandbanks, or dolphin cruises. Plan one or two shared activities, such as a sandbank picnic or a whale shark snorkel day in South Ari, so everyone gets a highlight together. If you want more culture, add a guesthouse island like Dhigurah for a few nights. Keep at least 18 to 24 hours between your last dive and flying.

Resort islands are designed for ease: private beaches, alcohol service, and packaged excursions. Local inhabited islands are more budget-friendly and culturally immersive, with cafes, community life, and guesthouses, but different norms. Expect modest dress away from designated bikini beaches and no alcohol in most local settings. Diving and snorkel trips run from local harbors, and schedules can be more weather-dependent in May to October. Carry some cash (MVR or small USD) for daily spending.

On resort islands you can usually pay by card, but small cash is useful for tips and small purchases. Local islands use MVR more often, and ATMs can be limited, so plan ahead. Many resorts add a service charge, but additional tipping is common for excellent service. Divers often tip guides and boat crew (commonly USD $5 to $10 per dive day depending on service), and housekeeping tips are also appreciated. If you prepay transfers, keep a little extra for baggage fees or last-minute weather changes.