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Hanifaru Bay

MANTA FESTIVAL 2024

INR 1,25,000 (+5% GST +TCS)

July 26 - July 31, 2024

5 Nights/6 Days

10 Dives + 2 Snorkelling trips to Hanifaru Bay

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Hanifaru Bay

A UNESCO Biosphere Reserve

World famous for the Biggest Aggregation of Manta Rays: Unique nature's wonder located in the Baa Atoll of the Maldives. Swimming amongst the largest feeding aggregations of Manta Rays and Whale Sharks at Hanifaru Bay is one of the most exciting and mind-blowing thing you can do.
 
There are only handful of places in the world where visitors can get so close to so many manta rays, and snorkel alongside them as they barrel-roll and create ‘fly’ in formation through the dense plankton.

From May to November, there can be found more than a hundred mantas and several whale sharks. 

Best time to Dive May to Nov

Required level

Open Water Certified SCUBA Diver

Forecast

Sun & Mild to Medium currents

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Difficulty

Medium, Advanced

cert. recommended

Highlight

Manta Rays,

Several whale sharks

Marine Life Highlight

Diverse dive sites of Hanifaru Bay

Discover a wealth of underwater treasures at Hanifaru Bay's dive sites, each offering a unique glimpse into the mesmerizing marine world.

From the captivating coral formations of Dhonfanu Thila to thrilling encounters at Nelivaru Haa, divers are treated to a kaleidoscope of wonders. Swim alongside schools of fish, encounter reef sharks, and marvel at the vibrant sea fans of Dharavandhoo Thila. Explore Dhigu Thila's dramatic caves, witness nurse sharks at Dhigali Haa's sanctuary, and encounter lively ecosystems at Aidhoo Corner and Dharavandhoo Corner.

Don't miss the captivating manta rays at Hanifaru Corner's cleaning station, an unforgettable marvel !

The Island

Dharavandhoo Island

This island is surrounded by clear waters known as Dharavandhoo Thila and Hanifaru Bay; which are famous amongst divers around the world, for it is a sanctuary for a variety of marine life, including manta rays and whale sharks.

At a Stone's throw distance from Hanifaru bay. It is 25 minutes by domestic flight from Male International airport. The beautiful Dharavandhoo lies in the heart of the only UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in the Maldives, and is ideally located to experience the best that this tropical paradise has to offer. 

This island is perfectly located for exploring the most iconic dive sites in Baa Atoll.

Not sure if this trip is for you?

Let our team of experts know. It's free and we'll get back to you within 24 hours.

The Stay

Perfect blend of Local + Luxury

Born from love and dedication to nature, the sea and this country full of natural wonders and surprises, the guest house & their warm staff are waiting for you to make your precious holiday a memorable experience – far from the common.
 

  • Located at a walking distance from the Airport

  • Free Buggy service for pickup and drop

  • Free Bikes to go cycling around the island

  • 6 mins from the Bikini beach

  • In-house restaurant with carefully curated menu

  • Spacious common chill-out area

  • Garden and terrace​​

The Rooms

Bungalow-style Luxurious Rooms

With the intent on preserving your privacy, each of the rooms offers a spacious place for you to relax and enjoy the phenomenal landscape of your Maldivian home.

  • Bungalow-style rooms (recently renovated)

  • Elegantly designed with private outdoor space

  • Colossal windows illuminates the space with the magnificent natural light

  • Air-conditioned rooms

  • Ensuite bathroom

  • Free Wifi, Unlimited Tea, Coffee, Drinking water

  • Each room is themed after a marine creature

The Dive Centre

PADI 5 Star IDC Centre

Founded in the year 2016 with a team of local divers with decades of experience at your service, the dive centre provides incredible diving experience at some of the most stunning dive sites in Baa Atoll

  • Expertise with Excellence: Highly trained and certified dive professionals

  • Top-of-the-line Equipment: Best quality equipments, state of the art dive facility and well-maintained dive boat

  • Environmental Stewardship: Actively supports marine conservation efforts & encourages responsible diving practices

  • Safety Above All : Safety isn't just a priority; it's a way of life

The Dive Boat

Eco - friendly Maldivian dive boat

Dhonis are made from locally sourced materials, using traditional boat-building techniques that have been passed down through generations, few advantages of this are:

  • Lower carbon footprint compared to larger, modern vessels

  • Environment friendly for eco-conscious travellers

  • Close-knit & friendly atmosphere

  • More authentic and cultural experience

  • Excellent stability crucial for the comfort & safety of divers

Customised for diving, has a toilet, fresh water supply for shower after dives, sundeck and front sitting area. Equipped with radio (VHF), life jackets, first aid kits and emergency oxygen.

Inclusions:

Domestic Flights ( Male - Dharavandhoo - Male )

5 Nights Resort Stay (twin sharing)

All meals, tea/coffee, drinking water

10 Guided Dives

2 Snorkelling trips to Hanifaru Bay

Maldives Green tax, Hanifaru Bay entry permit fee

Airport pickup and drop off

Exclusions:

International Flights

5% GST, 5% TCS

(refundable/reclaimable)

Mandatory Dive insurance ($ 30)

- included in Early Bird Offer

Dive equipment rental ($ 200)

- included in Early Bird Offer

Airport pickup and drop off

Reserve your spot by paying just INR 20,000

Total number of seats - 14

Nationals of India traveling as tourists can obtain a visa on arrival for a maximum stay of 30 days. They must have a hotel reservation confirmation. They can apply to extend their stay for an additional 60 days.

What makes us Excellent?

Safety First

Prioritizing your well-being, we adhere to the highest safety standards, ensuring a secure and worry-free diving experience

Top Accommodation

Our carefully selected accommodations and boat offer a perfect blend of luxury and relaxation, all while maintaining the highest level of service

Led by Experts 

Dive into the depths with confidence, guided by our team of seasoned professionals who bring years of expertise and passion

Attention to Detail

From itinerary planning to personalized services, we pride ourselves on the little things that make a big difference, ensuring your journey is seamless

About Oceaon

Oceaon, a company founded by the same team behind Mad Over Maldives, renowned leaders in underwater expeditions in the Maldives. Oceaon specializes in organizing ocean expeditions and dive retreats globally.
Committed to the protection and conservation of the Earth's most invaluable resource—the Ocean—we aspire to inspire change by raising awareness and promoting education about the enchanting marine world.

When you book a trip with Oceaon,
You make a difference

A percentage of your booking will go to Marine conservation projects led by Oceaon's partner organisations.

100% CARBON NEUTRAL
Oceaon offsets 100% of its carbon emissions.

 

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