MANTA
HOTSPOTS

This expedition has been specifically timed to coincide with the most productive monsoon winds and lunar currents, which strongly influence the movements and feeding habits of reef manta rays. The aim of this trip is to use the knowledge of Manta Trust experts to find these feeding aggregations and allow the guests to experience the wonder of immersing yourself among a feeding frenzy of these gentle giants.

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On this expedition we will visit four atolls and experience the wonderful marine diversity the Maldives has to offer!

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Starting at Rasdhoo Atoll, famed for its dramatic channel dives and steep reef walls, offering encounters with grey reef sharks, eagle rays, schools of barracuda to name a few, all set against a backdrop of vibrant corals and overhangs teeming with reef life.

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Baa Atoll is off the main route for the majority of dive liveaboards, we will venture into this more northern atoll specifically to seek out the feeding mantas of Hanifaru Bay and hopefully a few whale sharks as well. To see several of the world's largest fish feeding among dozens of the world's largest rays is something you will never forget. Baa Atoll offers much more with beautiful thilas covered with fish life such as Nelivaru Thila and plenty of interesting critters!

Moving to Raa Atoll, which offers a breathtaking blend of flourishing marine life and striking underwater landscapes, set in one of the Maldives’ more remote and less-traveled regions. Located just north of Baa Atoll, Raa is known for its dramatic topography, featuring steep drop-offs, coral-covered walls, and lush thilas surrounded by schools of reef fish. The nutrient-rich currents attract a rich array of life, including graceful manta rays, eagle rays, Napoleon wrasses, and white-tip reef sharks, while macro lovers can spot nudibranchs, anemonefish, and leaf scorpionfish nestled among the corals. With its healthy reefs, stunning visibility, and fewer crowds, Raa Atoll offers divers an immersive experience in a truly untouched corner of the Maldives.

While the weather in the Maldives at this time of the year is likely to be more changeable, these monsoonal conditions are exactly what create the planktonic blooms upon which the mantas and whale sharks aggregate to feed. Whilst we can never guarantee these natural events, we have put together a trip that maximises our chances of being in the right place at the right time, guided by the expertise of a Manta Trust scientist! ​

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Note: The inclusion of Hanifaru Bay is dependent on the time of year, the number of mantas in the bay (or lack thereof) as well as the availability of government-licensed guides and restrictions imposed by the rangers.