Description
This diving package is based in the local island of Dhangethi, located in the Ari South Atoll, which is one of the areas with the highest concentration of marine life in the Maldives. The stay combines accommodation in a guesthouse with full board and a program of 15 guided dives at the atoll's most notable spots: coral-laden thilas, channels with reef sharks, a shipwreck teeming with life, and the two highlights of the area, full-day outings dedicated to whale sharks and manta rays. Ari South is the most reliable area in the country for whale shark sightings, with almost daily encounters at Whale Shark Point and over 80 individuals recorded, always in natural conditions and without baiting. Dhangethi, just 90 minutes by speedboat from Malé, retains the traditional atmosphere of local islands, complete with its market, fishermen, and white sand bikini beach. A destination that allows you to experience top-tier Maldivian diving at a relaxed and authentic pace.
Itinerary
Arrival in Malé and transfer to Dhangethi
Arrival at Malé International Airport and transfer by speedboat to Dhangethi Island in the Ari Atoll. The journey covers 87 kilometers in approximately 90 minutes and is occasionally accompanied by groups of dolphins.
Upon arrival, check-in at the guesthouse takes place, followed by an introduction at the dive center, where diving documentation is reviewed, equipment is prepared, and an overview of the island and the diving program is provided.
South Ari Dive is the first PADI 5-Star center in Dhangethi and one of the leading centers in the South Ari Atoll, with over 15 years of experience in the area. The team consists of 2 instructors and 3 divemasters (five guides in total), supplemented by experienced freelance guides for larger groups. The guide-to-diver ratio is flexible and adjusts according to the certification and experience of each group, always prioritizing safety. Briefings and operations are conducted in English, with the option to organize a Spanish-speaking guide for groups upon request.
The center is a member of DAN Europe, offers PADI courses from beginner to professional levels, and operates boat trips to the 33 categorized dive sites of the atoll, including full-day excursions for whale sharks and manta rays.
Included
- International flights
- Scuba Finders backpack with T-shirt
- Travel documentation printed at home
- Transfers from the airport to the island by speedboat (round trip, ~90 minutes)
- 7 nights of accommodation at Seaside Dhangethi Inn or another guesthouse of similar category
- Full board
- Soft drinks and non-alcoholic beverages (Coca-Cola, Fanta, Sprite, juices...)
- 15 guided dives, including full-day trips for whale sharks and mantas
- Tanks and weights
- Certified dive guides (briefings in English; Spanish guide available for groups upon request)
- Guided island tour, internal transfers, and underwater photography (courtesy of the operator)
- Travel and diving insurance from Scuba Safe
Not included
- Rental of diving equipment
- Alcoholic beverages (not permitted on the island due to local regulations; available on excursions to nearby resorts and licensed safari boats)
- Maldives Green Tax and possible local fees
- Tips for the diving team and guesthouse staff
- Optional excursions outside the diving program
- Single room supplement for solo travelers (check option to share)
- Everything not mentioned in 'Included Services'
It is recommended to adhere to the rule of not diving within 24 hours prior to the return flight. All divers must have insurance that covers diving activities, including emergency evacuation and recompression chamber.