DIVE LOCAL FROM DHIGURAH
Stunning coral formations, incredible colours and a huge variety of fish life have made Ari Atoll one of the top diving destinations around the world. Add into the mix regular Manta Ray and Whaleshark sightings, and it’s clear why people keep coming back for more. The British Whale Shark conservation group, who are also based on Dhigurah, have recorded 215 whale sharks in our area, of which only 8 are female. Average length is 5.92m which makes them “teenagers”. The whale sharks are there all year around, but some weather conditions makes them harder to spot. Mantas regularly feed in the lagoon as well as the famous cleaning station at Rangali which is within easy reach. There are 15 deep reefs or Thilas in between Dhigurah and the next island. Stunning coral formations, incredible colours and a huge variety of fish life have made Ari Atoll one of the top diving destinations around the world. Add into the mix regular Manta Ray and Whaleshark sightings, and it’s clear why people keep coming back for more. Popular dive sites include Broken Rock, Protected Marine Area Kudarah Thila just 10 minutes away, Panettone and Angaga Thila.
TOUR DETAILS
ISLAND INFORMATION
Dhigurah lies on the southeast side of Ari Atoll. Dhigurah actually means long island and at 3km, it is indeed the longest island in the atoll. It is also one of the most picturesque with a long beach, protected lagoon and a sandbar at its southern end. It is just 20 minutes from Male by domestic flight and a short speedboat journey.
Dhigurah is a popular destination not only for those wishing to relax but also for divers and snorkelers who seek out whale sharks, mantas and the world-renowned reefs, which make this location one of the best for diving in the Maldives. Stroll along the refined, white sandy beach with a length of more than 3 km and you will feel as though you have the beach all to yourself or treat yourself to dinner at one of the many close by 5* luxury resorts. The guesthouses are situated a short walk away from the hub of the small local community whilst the dive school and harbor area can be reached either on foot or by guesthouse transfer vehicle. With a population of about 600, Dhigurah has all the necessary community facilities, a school, Medical Centre, sports pitches and a generous harbor. The population is concentrated in a small area to the north of the island leaving the remainder of the island for fruit and vegetable gardening and natural vegetation. There are currently minimal dining options on Dhigurah, one local restaurant and café but with new guesthouses being built this will gradually change.
GETTING HERE
Dhigurah is easily reached by domestic flight from Male International airport. Transfers are organised as part of your booking unless requested otherwise.
Public ferry and speedboat transfers available if you are on a budget.
DIVE CENTRE
Offering a wealth of experience in diving in one of the Maldives diving hotspots, our dive partner on the island of Dhigurah, South Ari Atoll, provide an extensive range of daily dive trips, as well as a host of PADI courses catering for beginners and experienced divers. With a beautiful house reef and a fantastic range of nearby dive sites you are guaranteed a dive trip to remember.
Dives are conducted from a dive dhoni with sites chosen based on conditions and diver ability. Dive packages including daily single dives to three tank full day dive safaris are offered. Night diving and a full range of PADI courses are available.
ACCOMMODATION OPTION 1: TME RETREAT
TME Retreat Guest House is located on the lagoon side of the island, a short walk from the centre of the village and is perfectly situated to watch a Maldivian sunset. 8 en-suite rooms; ground floor with private patio, first floor with private balcony, Twin or double bed; AC and ceiling fan in all rooms; Private garden; free water; Mini bar; free tea/coffee; Free Wi-Fi; hairdryer; Flat Screen TV, Reception with safety deposit box, in house restaurant.
ACCOMMODATION OPTION 2: BOUTIQUE BEACH ALL INCLUSIVE DIVE HOTEL
Guests are accommodated in six luxury rooms with either balcony or ground floor private gardens. Two of the rooms feature a four poster bed and a daybed which folds out to a double size bed for families or friends to share. The other four rooms feature twin, small double beds for individual divers which can also be joined together. The comfortable beds have luxurious cotton sheets and a choice of feather or fibre pillows. Each air-conditioned room features a desk, safety deposit box and en suite bathroom with open air shower and complimentary toiletries.
Guests are accommodated on an all-inclusive basis including diving and have a choice of venues to eat including a rooftop restaurant with spectacular views over the lagoon for special sunset and star watching moments. There is also a restaurant/cafe on the ground floor with a dhoni buffet table for breakfast or lunchtimes. Tea, coffee and a soft drink fridge are available around the clock. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the hotel.