Description
This diving package is based on the local island of Dhangethi, located in the Ari Atoll, one of the areas with the highest concentration of marine life in the Maldives. The stay includes accommodation in a guesthouse with full board and a program of 15 guided dives at the most notable spots in the atoll: coral-rich thilas, channels with reef sharks, a shipwreck teeming with life, and the two highlights of the area—the full-day trips dedicated to whale sharks and manta rays. Ari Atoll is the most reliable region in the country for whale shark sightings, with almost daily encounters at Whale Shark Point and over 80 known individuals, always in natural conditions and without baiting. Dhangethi, just 90 minutes by speedboat from Malé, preserves the traditional atmosphere of local islands, featuring its marketplace, local fishermen, and a white sand bikini beach. A destination that allows you to experience world-class Maldivian diving at a relaxed and authentic pace.
Itinerary
Llegada a Malé y traslado a Dhangethi
Llegada al aeropuerto internacional de Malé y traslado en lancha rápida a la isla de Dhangethi, en el atolón de Ari Sur. El trayecto cubre 87 kilómetros en aproximadamente 90 minutos y en ocasiones va acompañado de grupos de delfines.
A la llegada se realiza el check-in en el guesthouse y la presentación en el centro de buceo, donde se revisa la documentación de buceo, se prepara el equipo y se recibe la orientación general de la isla y del programa de inmersiones.
South Ari Dive is the first PADI 5 Star center in Dhangethi and one of the leading dive 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 not fixed: it is adjusted according to the certification and experience of each group, always prioritizing safety. Briefings and operations are conducted in English, with the option to arrange a Spanish-speaking guide for groups upon request.
The center is a member of DAN Europe, offers PADI courses from beginner to professional level, and operates boat excursions to the 33 documented dive sites in the atoll, including full-day trips for whale sharks and manta rays.
Included
International Flights
Round-trip airport-to-island transfers via speedboat (approx. 90 minutes)
7 nights of accommodation with full board at Seaside Dhangethi Inn or similar
Soft drinks and non-alcoholic beverages
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)
Scuba Finders backpack including T-shirt and printed travel documents.
Scuba Safe travel insurance.
Not included
Dive Equipment Rental
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 potential local fees
Tips for the dive team and guesthouse staff
Optional excursions outside the diving program
Single room supplement for solo travelers (inquire about sharing options)
Everything not mentioned in 'Included Services'
It is recommended to adhere to the guideline of not diving within 24 hours before the return flight. All divers must have insurance that covers diving activities, including emergency evacuation and recompression chamber.