IHAVANDHIPPOLHU ATOLL
GETTING THERE
The northernmost atoll in the Maldives, Ihavandhippolhu has no domestic airport of its own; you have to fly to Haa Alif Atoll’s Hoarafushi Airport and transfer to your resort by speedboat or seaplane. A liveaboard is another option to consider.
DIVE EXPERIENCE All levels, especially beginners
BEST TIME TO DIVE July to August
WATER TEMPERATURE 24–28°C
While this far-flung atoll is relatively little explored by divers, it is typical of the northern atolls with their wide and shallow channels, which reduce the currents and make for great conditions for novices.
Walls and overhangs are covered in table corals and vibrant sponges, and there is a huge smorgasbord of reef species to spot, from nudibranchs and crustaceans to moray eels, lionfish, groupers and tunas. Explore the caves, swim-throughs and pinnacles, and encounter Napoleon wrasses, reef sharks, turtles and even manta rays. It may be remote but Ihavandhippolhu Atoll is a paradise for underwater photography enthusiasts.
VISIBILITY 10 to 40 metres
DEPTH 5 to 40 metres