Expedition details

A once-in-a-lifetime shark diving expedition in the heart of the Maldives.

Info card

  • Start date29 November 2026
  • End date 6 December 2026
  • Available spots 12
  • Max divers 12
  • Total price € 2.205
  • Deposit € 500

key highlights

  • Island-based expedition
  • 15 Dives included
  • Daily tiger shark encounters
  • Chance to encounter pelagic species such as threshers, hammerheads and manta rays

Included

  • Speed boat transfer Malé → Dhigurah
  • speed boat transfer Dhigurah → Malé 
  • 15 Dives (1 manta dive, 1 whale shark dive)
  • Daily breakfast, lunch and dinner
  • 7-night stay in a private room
  • Certified guides on every dive
  • Harbour pick-up and local transfers
  • Dive briefings
  • All tanks, weights, boat fees and taxes

What this expedition is about

Experience Dhigurah: Whale Sharks and Manta Rays in South Ari Atoll

Dhigurah is one of the Maldives’ most renowned dive destinations, best known for its year-round whale shark encounters. Located in South Ari Atoll, the area offers long reef systems and open water channels that attract manta rays, reef sharks, turtles and a wide variety of marine life.

This expedition focuses on relaxed, scenic diving with plenty of time to observe and photograph marine life. The dives are generally calm and spacious, allowing for longer bottom times and a more immersive experience. While whale sharks and mantas are a major highlight, every dive offers something different from vibrant coral gardens to large schools of fish and occasional pelagic encounters.

We dive with an experienced local team who knows the area intimately. The daily schedule remains flexible, adapting to conditions and wildlife sightings, ensuring the best possible experience while maintaining a strong focus on safety and responsible diving.

Between dives, there is time to unwind, review photos or enjoy the relaxed island atmosphere. Dhigurah’s laid-back pace and natural surroundings make it an ideal setting for a balanced and rewarding dive week.

 

Accommodation

Stay at Whaleshark Beach

During this expedition you’ll be staying at Whaleshark Beach, a comfortable and well-located guesthouse just steps away from the island’s white-sand beach. The accommodation is perfectly suited for divers who want a relaxed place to unwind after full days in the water.

The rooms are clean, spacious and equipped with private bathrooms, air-conditioning and reliable WiFi. Daily housekeeping ensures everything stays fresh and comfortable throughout your stay. The atmosphere is calm and welcoming, offering a pleasant balance between comfort and the laid-back island lifestyle.

Breakfast is served on-site each morning, and the location allows for smooth and efficient dive days. Transfers to and from the dive center are short, giving you more time to rest, review photos or enjoy the surroundings between dives.

Whaleshark Beach was selected for this expedition because of its excellent location, comfort and relaxed atmosphere, making it an ideal base for exploring the underwater world of South Ari Atoll while keeping the focus fully on the diving experience.

Room Features

  • Air Conditioning
  • Daily Housekeeping
  • Wifi in all areas
  • Private Bathroom
  • Hot & Cold Shower
  • Complimentary Toiletries
  • Hairdryer
  • In-room Safe
  • Minibar
  • Electric Kettle
  • Daily Housekeeping

Expedition Schedule

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Nov 09, 2017

Day 1 – November 29 | Arrival on Dhigurah

We depart from Malé by speedboat and travel to Dhigurah in approximately 1.5–2 hours. Upon arrival at the harbor, you’ll be picked up and transferred to your guesthouse. The rest of the day is dedicated to settling in and enjoying your first moments on the island. In the evening, we’ll hold a welcome briefing with the team.

Nov 09, 2017

Day 2 – November 30 | First Dives around Dhigurah

After breakfast, we head out for our first dives around Dhigurah’s thilas. These sites are known for healthy reefs, schooling fish, and encounters with reef sharks and turtles. Between dives, we relax on the boat and get familiar with the local conditions.

Nov 09, 2017

Day 3 – December 1 | Exploring the Thilas

Today we continue exploring different thilas around Dhigurah. Expect dynamic dive sites with currents, vibrant coral formations, and a wide variety of marine life. The focus is on relaxed diving and finding a steady rhythm for the week.

Nov 09, 2017

Day 4 – December 2 | Whale Shark Focus

This day is dedicated to searching for whale sharks, one of Dhigurah’s most iconic encounters. We combine diving and snorkeling while covering a larger area, keeping the schedule flexible based on conditions and sightings.

Nov 09, 2017

Day 5 – December 3 | Manta Ray Dive

Today’s dives focus on sites where manta rays are frequently spotted. Alongside mantas, these dives often attract other pelagic species, offering exciting and varied underwater encounters.

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Nov 09, 2017

Day 6 – December 4 | Mixed Dive Day

A varied dive day visiting different sites depending on conditions. This may include thilas, reef edges, or channels, showcasing the diversity of South Ari Atoll.

Nov 09, 2017

Day 7 – December 5 | Final Dives

Our final dive day features relaxed morning dives before starting the no-fly period. The afternoon is free to unwind, review photos and videos, and enjoy the island atmosphere. In the evening, we gather for a final dinner.

Nov 09, 2017

Day 8 – December 6 | Departure

After breakfast, we prepare for departure and transfer back towards Malé, marking the end of the Dhigurah expedition.

Ready to join this expedition?

Daily tiger shark encounters

Ready to join this expedition?