Diving in North Male Atoll

Miyaru Faru

If you knew that miyaru means shark in Dhivehi then you would not be surprised to know that sharks feature prominently at this spot. But it's not only sharks you should look out for but several pelagic fishes often appear here.

The wall here is quite unremarkable really. There are interesting things to spot such as lionfish, moray eels and porcupine fish but the real action is out in the blue. At around 30 metres there is an overhang which can shield you from the strength of the passing current, and with an incoming current the visibility can be excellent and the parade of pelagics and local residents, impressive. You might see a number of grey reef sharks as well as barracuda, kingfish and tuna.

Large squadrons of eagle rays are frequently seen here seemingly flying in formation in an unforgettable display. Their larger cousins, the manta rays, are also often seen here, filter feeding in the plankton-rich water. Less frequent are sightings of hammerheads but an encounter with these, for those lucky enough to be in the right place, is another wonderful moment to be had a Miyaru Faru.

After having had your fill of pelagic action you can make your way towards the shallows or out into the channel where you can (if currents allow) cross over to a thila where butterflyfish, parrotfish, powder-blue surgeonfish and groupers all add a splash of colour to the coral pinnacles.

Miyaru Faru Reef Basics: Drift dive
Depth: 5 - 30m
Visibility: 10 - 25m
Currents: Can be strong
Surface conditions: Usually calm, but can be choppy
Water temperature: 27 - 30°C
Experience level: Intermediate
Number of dive sites: 2 (Miyaru Faru Kandu and Miyaru Faru Tila)
Diving season: All year round. Liveaboards less likely to visit May to July
Distance: Between Dhiya Adi Faru and Kassan Faru, 47 km from Male Town
Access: Liveaboard

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