Maldives is a cluster of small coral islands that are further divided into 26 atolls beautifully lying on the Indian Ocean. Maldivian Islands present exceptional holidaying options to all its tourists of varying age groups and with different purposes of visit. The island with the beauty of shimmering white beaches, turquoise lagoons, lush palm trees and vast blue Indian Ocean create a perfect setting to spend few memorable days of your life. However, it is not just the serene environment and breath taking natural beauty that makes Maldives special but also the adventurous sports and activities presented by the island. Water sports and different kinds of excursions are sure to make your vacation all the more exciting.
Out of many sports, scuba diving is one of the most popular amongst tourists from all over the world. The island offers some of the best diving sites in the world along with a favourable environment and facilities for the sports. Rich marine life consisting of almost 70 different species of colourful coral reefs and more than 700 species of fishes and other aqua creatures make scuba diving an activity worth experiencing. Even the visibility of the water which is up to 15 - 40 metres (50 - 130 feet) makes it Maldives more suitable for the diving. Best time to go for diving is between the months of June to October and December to March. The temperature of water is mostly warm making it easier for you to dive. For instance, the temperature of water is 24°C (75°F) in February and July to 27°C (81°F) in April, May and September.
There are many amazing diving sites in Maldives. Few of the diving sites are Guaridoo Corner with many Napoleon Fishes to spot, Cocoa Corner with sharks, rays and other marine creatures and the Maldive Victory which is surrounded by coral reefs offers a profusion of marine life to divers. Aquatic creatures that you can spot during your diving in Indian Ocean are Napoleon wrasse, parrotfish, snappers, barracudas, jacks, sweetlips, hammerheads, grey reef sharks, white tip reef sharks, eagle rays, manta rays, turtles, frogfish, triggerfish, surgeonfish, trevallies and many more. Scuba diving presents you with the opportunity to closely observe these creatures and admire the magical beauty of theirs.
The sheer beauty of the life beneath the Indian Ocean makes scuba diving quite special. Going for night diving makes this sport even more exciting. You can spot some exotic creatures and also see the changed colour of the creatures in the night as well as go closer to them for photography as compared to day time. If you are interested in just looking and enjoying the beauty of the colourful aquatic life, you can go for lazy diving and rift diving.
Most of the resort sand hotels in Maldives offer excellent diving facilities for the comfort of the tourists. Diving centres even provide PADI, NAUI and CMAS certified courses to those interested in. Umpteen numbers of diving packages are available for tourist to choose from and get most out of the activity.