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Rare Ocean Expeditions around the World
Hanifaru Bay
MANTA FESTIVAL 2025
INR 1,29,000
09 July-14 July,2025
5 Nights / 6 Days
8-9 Guided Dives + 2 trips to Hanifaru Bay
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Hanifaru Bay
A UNESCO Biosphere Reserve
In the eastern edge of the northern Baa Atoll in Maldives lies Hanifaru Bay, a place where hundreds of manta rays congregate to gorge themselves in the plankton-rich waters. This is the largest known aggregation of reef manta rays in the world.
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-Nov
Required level
Open Water Certified SCUBA Diver
Forecast
Sun & Occasional showers
Difficulty
Medium
Highlight
Manta Rays,
Whale Sharks
The Island
Dharavandhoo Island, Baa Atoll
At a Stone's throw distance from Hanifaru bay, Dharavandhoo Island is 25 minutes by domestic flight from Velana International Airport, Male. The beautiful Dharavandhoo lies in the heart of the only UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in the Maldives, and is ideally located to explore the most iconic dive sites in Baa Atoll.
Whale sharks sometimes cruise into the bay for a plankton feast, adding to the magic of manta season (May-Nov). The surrounding reefs are alive with turtles, napoleons, fusiliers, batfish, and vibrant reef fish.
Deeper dives may reveal grey reef sharks, eagle rays, or even mobulas. Visibility can vary, but the payoff is some of the Maldives’ most dynamic and spectacular marine life action.
The Stay
Perfect blend of Local + Luxury
Born out of love for nature and the sea, this charming guest house offers a warm, memorable escape just steps from the airport. Enjoy free buggy transfers, bikes to explore the island, a curated in-house restaurant, and relax in the spacious chill-out area, garden, or terrace—just 6 minutes from Bikini Beach.
The Rooms
Bungalow-style Luxurious Rooms
Designed to offer privacy and comfort, each spacious bungalow-style room comes with a private outdoor space and large windows that flood the interiors with natural light. Enjoy air-conditioning, ensuite bathrooms, free Wi-Fi, unlimited tea, coffee, and water—each room thoughtfully themed after a unique marine creature.
The Dive Centre
PADI 5 Star IDC Centre
Established in 2016 by seasoned local divers, the dive centre offers unforgettable experiences at some of Baa Atoll’s most stunning sites. With expert instructors, top-tier equipment, a strong focus on safety, and a deep commitment to marine conservation, every dive is both safe and meaningful.
The Dive Boat
Eco-friendly Maldivian Dive Boat
Built using traditional techniques and locally sourced materials, Dhonis offer an eco-friendly and culturally rich experience. Their stability ensures diver comfort, while the intimate setup creates a warm atmosphere. Fully equipped for diving, each Dhoni includes a toilet, freshwater shower, sundeck, seating area, and all essential safety gear.
Inclusions:
Exclusions:
Domestic Flights ( Male - Dharavandhoo - Male )
8-9 Guided Dives + 2 Snorkeling trips to Hanifaru Bay
5 Nights Stay
(twin-sharing)
All Meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner), Tea/Coffee, Drinking water
Marine Conservation Talk & Workshops, Sunset Sandbank Trip, Oceaon Merch, & much more
International Flights
Dive Equipment
5% GST, 5% TCS-Refundable / Reclaimable
Maldives Green tax ($6 per night)
Tips and Gratuity
Anything not mentioned under Inclusions
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
Founder's Note
Hello, I am Nishi and I’m a SCUBA diver, freediver, and entrepreneur. I used to be a data scientist but the call of Mother Ocean is bigger than us all. Few key life events and hours of introspection led me to quit the corporate world and I found myself sitting on the beach with a life jacket (yes, I did not know how to swim back then)! Over the last few years I’ve been grateful to have the opportunity to launch and grow our Maldives vertical, Mad over Maldives. Me and my team are humbled by the love and support we’ve received from our wonderful customers. Oceaon is now expanding boundaries and I am elated to host you in iconic dive destinations across the world.
Nishi Srivastava
Founder - Oceaon & Mad Over Maldives , Rescue Diver , Shark Enthusiast , Minimalist
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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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