Maaya Thila is an exceptional dive site, protected as a Marine Reserve by the Maldivian government. While grey reef sharks are frequently spotted here, the smaller white-tip reef sharks steal the show, often with dozens circling the thila. With a diameter of about 80 meters, Maaya Thila can be circumnavigated in a single dive—conditions permitting—but many divers choose to linger in one spot to fully absorb the incredible variety of marine life.
The reef top begins at six meters, while the reef edge drops from 12 meters to depths exceeding 30 meters. Numerous coral outcrops are found on the northwest and south sides, and caves and overhangs surround the thila. The large northern cave teems with life, from white-tip sharks (usually favoring areas with the strongest currents) to dog-toothed tuna, great barracuda, blue-faced angelfish, Moorish idols, tallfin batfish, parrotfish, butterflyfish, clown triggerfish, and lionfish. Sharp-eyed divers may also spot hidden treasures like stonefish and anglerfish.
On the south side, a prominent rock features a one-meter-wide swim-through at 24 meters. The reef top hosts schools of fusiliers and blue stripe snapper, and a large turtle is a regular visitor. With its abundance of fish and vibrant soft corals and gorgonians along the reef faces, this dive is a true delight for marine enthusiasts. When conditions allow, Maaya Thila is also spectacular for night dives—a real treat!
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