Maldives Top DIVE site Kandooma Thila
Nestled within the cerulean waters of the South Male Atoll in the Maldives lies a diver’s utopia and one of Maldives Top dive site Kandooma Thila. Some refer to it as Cocoa Thila. This submerged pinnacle epitomizes the awe-inspiring allure of the Maldives’ aquatic realm. Boasting a rich tapestry of marine life and captivating coral formations. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the marvels of Kandooma Thila, exploring its unique features, and dive site description. There are various options to access this underwater jewel from Anantara Resort, COMO Cocoa Island Resort, Maafushi Local Island, or by Liveaboard boat.
Dive Site Description
Kandooma Thila is a pinnacle located in the South Male Atoll, characterized by a stunning underwater landscape that offers divers an unparalleled adventure. The pinnacle rises from the depths of the ocean floor of the channel, creating a mesmerizing environment for divers to explore. Its towering structure is adorned with vibrant coral gardens, and overhangs, providing a playground for an abundance of marine life. The depths ranging from 14 to 30 meters.
Divers can expect to encounter a diverse array of marine species at Maldives Top dive site Kandooma Thila. These including grey reef sharks, eagle rays, white-tip sharks, whip rays, marble rays, barracudas, tuna, trevally, turtles, and an array of colorful tropical fish. When conditions are right the site’s clear waters offer excellent visibility. This allows divers to marvel at the intricate details of the coral formations and the vibrant marine ecosystem that thrives within. Divers can explore the pinnacle’s rich marine biodiversity, encountering a myriad of marine species and corals.
Kandooma Thila (aka Cocoa Thila) copyright: Aquafanatics Anantara
Kandooma Thila
One of the main attractions at this site are grey reef sharks. From 2000 to 2009 this dive site was ranked world 10th place of shark diving. Many classify this site as one of Maldives top 5 dive sites. However like all dive sites, the conditions need to be right to witness the most amounts of sharks. Ideally you want to have a light-medium outgoing current. This generally happens when the tide rises. On avarage there can be seen 10-30 sharks, sometime 30-60+. When the conditions are optimal, expect to see everything on the above list and more.
Though there is never a 100% gurantee in diving. My most memorable dive there, was one of the last, which is the reel footage. However the time where I saw most sharks, was another time. There were around 30-40 in small area together at once. I worked for 4 years at Anantara Resort as the Baseleader for the dive operation there Aquafanatics, so I speak from experience.
Dive Experience
Diving at Kandooma Thila promises an unforgettable experience for mainly experienced divers. The depths ranging from 14 to 30 meters. The sharks tend to be in a range of 20-30m, however sometimes they are on top of the pinnacle. It is best to be Advanced Open Water diver as well as have Nitrox Specialty. As for the most part you will be deep. Also one of the highlight is the shark cleaning station at 30m depth. So if you dont have Nitrox, your time will be very limited there. Also be prepared for strong currents, be able to decened quickly and use a reef hook!
Diving from Anantara Resort
Anantara Resort, situated on Dhigu Island in the South Male Atoll, provides easy access to Kandooma Thila for guests seeking a luxurious diving experience. Divers staying at the resort can embark on guided dive trips to the site, led by experienced dive instructors who ensure a safe and memorable underwater excursion. Anantara Resorts Aquafantics offers top-notch dive facilities and equipment, ensuring that guests can explore Kandooma Thila’s underwater wonders with ease and comfort. If you go here try to dive with Adam, the resident Divemaster, he knows every corner of Maldives Top dive site Kandooma Thila.
Diving from COMO Cocoa
COMO Cocoa Island Resort, also located in the South Male Atoll, offers another luxurious gateway to Kandooma Thila. Guests can indulge in world-class diving experiences with professional dive operators who organize guided excursions to this iconic dive site. COMO Cocoa Island Resort provides a tranquil retreat for divers, allowing them to explore Kandooma Thila’s vibrant marine ecosystem while enjoying the resort’s luxurious amenities and personalized services.
Diving from Maafushi Island
For travelers seeking a more budget-friendly option, diving from Maafushi Local Island provides an excellent opportunity to explore Kandooma Thila. Located in close proximity to the South Male Atoll, Maafushi Island offers a range of dive centers and tour operators that arrange day trips to Kandooma Thila. Divers can immerse themselves in the rich marine biodiversity of the Maldives while experiencing the authentic local culture of Maafushi Island.
Diving by Liveaboard
For adventurous divers looking to explore multiple dive sites in the Maldives, diving by Liveaboard boat offers a unique and unforgettable experience. Liveaboard operators offer dive cruises that visit Kandooma Thila along with other renowned dive sites across the Maldives. Divers can enjoy the convenience of diving directly from the Liveaboard vessel while exploring the diverse underwater landscapes of the region. Read our blog best DIVE Liveabaord in Maldives 2024 for more information on which boat to choose to dive at Maldives Top dive site Kandooma Thila.
Kandooma Thila, with its captivating underwater topography and vibrant marine life, stands as a testament to the unparalleled beauty of the Maldives’ underwater world. Whether diving from luxury resorts like Anantara and COMO Cocoa Island, immersing in the local culture of Maafushi Island, or embarking on a Liveaboard adventure, divers have multiple options to access this underwater wonderland. With its clear waters, diverse marine ecosystem, and awe-inspiring coral formations, Kandooma Thila promises an unforgettable diving. An experience that will leave divers enchanted and inspired by the natural splendor of the Maldives Top dive site Kandooma Thila.
If you want to read more about Maldivess read our blog different blogs on the subject. Read Magic of Bioluminescent Waters in the Maldives, best way to Travel Maldives, and best DIVE liveaboards in the Maldives 2024.