top of page
web (28 von 29).jpg

North And Central Atolls

Including Hanifaru Bay in Baa Atoll

Hanifaru Bay: A Marine Sanctuary in the Maldives

SHARKS

BEGINNER

CURRENTS

SNORKELING

WHALE SHARKS & MANTAS

Welcome to Hanifaru Bay, a UNESCO biosphere reserve and marine protected area in the Maldives' Baa Atoll. From May to November, witness the incredible feeding frenzy of manta rays and whale sharks in crystal-clear waters. This site, known for its vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life, is ideal for snorkelers. Strict regulations ensure the preservation of this natural wonder, making it a must-visit destination for marine enthusiasts.

Seascape Liveaboard_edited.jpg

Embark on a luxurious liveaboard adventure, cruising through the Maldives' atolls and exploring vibrant marine life.

HanifaruBay

A stunning underwater scene at Hanifaru Bay, where manta rays congregate in large numbers from May to November.

web (28 von 29).jpg

A diver explores Hanifaru Bay, swimming alongside manta rays in the heart of the UNESCO biosphere reserve

manta-ray.jpg

Manta rays gather at Hanifaru Bay during the feeding frenzy, offering a rare glimpse into this natural spectacle."

Trip Details

Start/End Location: Male/Hulhumale

Duration: 7 to 11 nights aboard

Dives per Day: 2-3 dives

Atolls Covered: North Malé, Baa, Raa, Lhaviyani, North Ari

Target Audience: All levels, including beginners and snorkelers

Hanifaru Bay Fee: $25 USD per person/visit (not included)

Note: Routing depends on weather conditions; we select the best liveaboard routing.

Featured Dive Sites

Reef Diver

Dive into some of the Maldives' most extraordinary underwater locations. Each atoll offers a unique blend of marine life and diving experiences, from manta ray cleaning stations to vibrant coral reefs teeming with diverse species. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced diver, these sites promise unforgettable encounters with the ocean's wonders.

Find Your Trip

North Malé Atoll

  • Fish Tank: Known for large schools of stingrays and occasional sightings of guitar sharks or tiger sharks.

  • Lankan Beyru (Manta Point): A popular cleaning station for manta rays, accessible with minimal currents.

Baa Atoll

  • Hanifaru Bay: Snorkeling only, with seasonal gatherings of manta rays and whale sharks.

  • Vaadhoo Thila: Rich in marine life, suitable for experienced divers.

  • Dhonfan Thila: A small reef known for schooling fish and occasional manta sightings.

Noonu Atoll

  • Orimas Thila: A deep site with cleaning stations for gray reef sharks and eagle rays, ideal for experienced divers.

whalesharksnorkeler.jpg
Image 83.png
DURATION

7-14 nights

Image 85.png
SKILL LEVEL

Beginner to Pro

MALDIVES

Northern Atolls – Baa, Raa & Lhaviyani Expedition

Best Time to Travel: July to October
Recommended for:  Nature lovers, Manta enthusiasts, Snorkelers & Divers

Maldives Northern Atolls.jpg
Image 83.png
DURATION

7-14 nights

Image 85.png
SKILL LEVEL

Beginner to Pro

MALDIVES

Northern Atolls – Baa, Raa & Lhaviyani Expedition

Best Time to Travel: July to October
Recommended for:  Nature lovers, Manta enthusiasts, Snorkelers & Divers

Image 4.png

Overview

This route takes you into the less-traveled northern atolls of the Maldives – Baa, Raa, and Lhaviyani – known for pristine reefs, rich biodiversity, and fewer boats. The highlight of the expedition is Hanifaru Bay, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve famous for its incredible manta ray feeding aggregations.

Image 82.png
IDEAL FOR:

Manta lovers, photographers, and anyone looking for unspoiled reefs, quiet anchorages, and a deep connection with the natural beauty of the Maldives.

Image 20.png
Diving Highlights:

✔ Drift dives and thilas rich in fish life and soft corals

✔ Remote sites with healthy coral gardens and macro life

✔ Possibility of sharks, rays, turtles, and schooling fish


✔ Stunning reef topographies and cavern systems in Lhaviyani Atoll

✔ Dive sites with excellent visibility and minimal currents


Hanifaru Bay (Snorkeling Only):
Between July and October, plankton-rich currents attract dozens, sometimes hundreds of manta rays to feed in the shallow bay. With a bit of luck, whale sharks may join the spectacle. Snorkeling here is regulated and guided, offering a once-in-a-lifetime wildlife experience.
 

Image 80.png
For Snorkelers:

This is one of the best routes for snorkelers, with calm, shallow reefs, frequent manta encounters, and the unforgettable Hanifaru experience. Coral gardens and reef edges are accessible from the surface throughout the cruise.

Image 81.png
Beyond Diving:

Enjoy remote sandbanks, and visit local islands that are rarely seen by tourists. A relaxed itinerary with a strong focus on nature and serenity.

Homepage Maledives Liveaboards.jpg

Maldives Liveaboards

Explore the wonders of the ocean with our exclusive liveaboards in two of the world’s most breathtaking diving destinations—the Maldives and Komodo, Indonesia.

Step aboard our two unique liveaboards for an unforgettable journey through the Maldives.

EcoPro Seascape offers the highest level of comfort with state-of-the-art facilities, creating a luxurious haven at sea.

For a more intimate experience, EcoPro Mariana welcomes a maximum of just 16 guests, combining modern amenities with a warm, personal home-from-home feeling. Whichever you choose, expect exceptional service, breathtaking dive sites, and the ultimate Maldivian adventure.

Liveaboard Maldives EcoPro Seascape
EcoPro Seascape

A NEW ERA IN QUALITY AND COMFORT

Designed to accommodate up to 26 guests (FC up to28), EcoPro Seascape features 14 luxurious cabins, state-of-the-art facilities, and some comfortable, spacious outdoor areas. Guests can enjoy a jacuzzi and the convenience of diving from a dedicated dhoni. The EcoPro Seascape leaves nothing to be desired when it comes to design and comfort. Imagine yourself dreaming away under breathtaking sunsets after while enjoying one of the finest cocktails you can find in the Maldives.

Truly the best liveaboard in Maldives

Liveaboard Maldives EcoPro Mariana
EcoPro Mariana

YOUR HOME AWAY FROM HOME

 

Our EcoPro Mariana is a charming 27-meter liveaboard featuring 9 comfortable cabins, each equipped with a private bathroom and air conditioning. With space for up to 16 guests, she offers an intimate, family-friendly atmosphere where everyone feels at ease. Diving adventures are conducted from a spacious Dhoni for maximum comfort and convenience, while non-divers and snorkelers are warmly welcomed to enjoy the journey both above and below the surface

The liveaboard in Maldives for those who love to be and dive in small groups

icons8-checklist-50.png
PRICE INCLUDES:
  • 17% TGST

  • 1/2 cabin booked category

  • full board(breakfast, lunch, dinner)

  • drinking water from dispenser

  • Nescafe, tea, snacks

  • 3 dives per day (tanks, weights)

  • Diveguide service

  • Airport transfers

 

7 nights: 16-17 dives, 8 nights: 19-20 dives, 10 nights: 24-26 dives, 14 nights: 33+ dives

icons8-attention-64.png
Price excludes:
  • 12 US$ p.d. Green tax

  • alcohol and soft drinks

  • Lavazza coffee

  • rental equipment

  • Nitrox

Image 81.png
OTHER NOTES:

Cabin single occupancy on request, standard +50% surcharge (depends on availibility and season!)

Tiger shark dive 30 US$ extra (operated by local dive centre)

​​​GROUP SPECIALS + FULL CHARTER ON REQUEST

Can’t Find Dates That Work for You?

No problem — we offer flexible options! If you don’t see a trip that fits your schedule, get in touch with us. We’re happy to help arrange a custom trip or private charter.

Image 4.png
LATEST GUEST FEEDBACKS

From Our Top Clients Experience

★★★★★

Very nice cruise, you won't get bored!

"This cruise allows you to see a lot of different species, the dives are varied and you won't get bored! Night diving with manta rays is an unforgettable experience. The diving with nurse sharks is impressive because of the proximity to the sharks. The organization of the dives is satisfactory, the crew, the captain are very professional and really at your disposal, thank you to them! I recommend this destination, see you soon!"

Grégory C, France

- EcoPro Mariana Maldives, on liveaboard.com

LATEST GUEST FEEDBACKS

From Our top clients experience

★★★★★

Amazing Diving Experience with EcoProDivers: Above and Beyond!

"The crew made every effort to ensure an enjoyable diving experience. I was particularly struck by the crew's friendly smiles and excellent service. When two manta rays appeared on the surface, we were allowed to go snorkeling, which was great because I could swim with beautiful fish unlike in deeper waters. Additionally, with the captain's help, we were able to spot whales in the ocean. The meals were excellent, with refreshing drinks and snacks provided after each dive. I’m truly grateful for his thoughtful support throughout the trip. Also, I learned a lot from my guide during the dives." 

Hyunjoo S, South Korea

- EcoPro Seascape Maldives on liveaboard.com

LATEST GUEST FEEDBACKS

From Our top clients experience

★★★★★

Ecopro Seascape Northtour amazing trip

"Amazing 12/11 Trip with 28 Dives 👍 I have had fun during this nice trip. Diving again with Mantas, whalesharks, Nursesharks, Dolphins, and a Hammerhead was a nice experience."

Frank K, Germany

- EcoPro Seascape Maldives, on liveaboard.com

LATEST GUEST FEEDBACKS

From Our Top Clients Experience

★★★★★

A good trip for varied diving in the Maldives with an experienced dive guide and professional crew

"The stand out dive was the night dive with the Manta's. Spending an hour just watching them dance in front of your eyes was amazing. Everybody on the boat was super amazed."

Alan P, France

- EcoPro Mariana Maldives, on liveaboard.com

FAQ Maldives

  • All guests must have a passport valid for at least six more months from the date of arrival. 30- day tourist visas are issued on arrival at the immigration desk at Maldives International Airport for all nationalities and are free of charge. All visitors must have a return/onward flight ticket. 96 hours before entry, complete the Maldives online Traveller Declaration form - https://imuga.immigration.gov.mv/traveller. Photograph the QR code and show it upon request.

  • Upon arrival on the day of the safari start, guests will be met by an Eco Pro Divers staff member no earlier than 9.00 am in front of the arrival exit door, after baggage claim, at the international airport - easily recognizable by a sign reading "Eco Pro Divers" and boat name.

    The earliest transfer to the boats is around 12 pm noon.

     

    Later arrivals will be received at the same place according to the flight time. Waiting times may occur as group transfers are prioritized. There will be another group transfer around 4 pm depending on guest arrivals.

    Extra transfers are chargeable (15$US per person).

    ATTENTION: For special routes with a different arrival port than Male, guests will be met at the respective domestic airport (Gan or Kooddoo) and not in Male. We ask you to independently walk to the domestic airport and check in for your onward flight.

    In case of need, we can be reached at the following phone numbers:

     

    Anna (Guestcare Manager) +960 7644995

    Djoana (Reservations) +960 7533615

  • You can book them directly at the website https://maldivian.aero/ or email cc@iasl.aero.

  • We do require all divers to have valid insurance that covers diving accidents. Proof of this have to be presented to the dive guides at check-in.

    We assume no liability and take over e.g. pressure chamber and transport costs.

  • On the day of arrival and departure, there are no dives, per week, there are about 16-17 dives (2-3 per day). On the day before departure, there will be one dive in the morning.

    At approximately 12 noon that day, the boat returns to the harbour.

    Divers must ensure the 24-hour interval between their last dive and their flight departure (or going to altitude). For all diving sites visited en route, our dive guides will give you a detailed and comprehensive dive briefing before you enter the water. All divers must dive in buddy teams - individual divers will be assigned a buddy on board. As qualified divers, our guests are responsible for their own safety and that of their buddy during the dive, as well as dive planning and execution. Each diver must have their own dive computer. Dives must begin, execute and end with the dive buddy. You are expected to be able to dive to a standard as per the certification and experience requirements outlined for each itinerary and, as such, able to complete the dive with your buddy or by following the dive guide.

    The guides may decide, based on each diver's ability, not to enter the water for every dive and will remain onboard, providing surface support only.

    The maximum depth for diving in the Maldives is 30 metres with an equally qualified buddy. Your maximum diving depth will be dependent on your certification and the experience of both buddies. It is your responsibility to check what depths your insurance policy covers you before your arrival.

    Decompression diving, solo diving and technical diving are strictly prohibited.

  • We offer a range of courses on board, from beginner to a range of specialty courses. Courses are subject to availability and itinerary and include course materials (where required) and certification fee. If arranged on board, a 10% service tax will be added. Courses have to be requested before the trip starts.

  • We recommend the following diving equipment: Mask, snorkel, fins, boots, wetsuit, regulator, BCD, SMB (with a minimum of 5 metres of line to deploy during the safety stop), reef hook and a dive computer with spare batteries and a torch for any night dives.

    The average water temperature is 29°C, and we recommend a 3mm wetsuit.

    Rental equipment is available on a limited basis. Rental equipment must be requested before the trip, and we require information on suit size, weight, height and shoe size to prepare the correctly sized equipment for you.

    All divers are required to use a dive computer and SMB and carry reef hooks for every dive and a torch for night dives throughout their safari experience for safety reasons. Please bring your own or ask us what is available on board. You are not allowed to use gloves!

  • We have 12l DIN tanks and INT adapters available on board. 15l Tanks are available for rent with a rental fee and only on request.

For more in-depth Maldives FAQs, click the button below for downloadable FAQ document

bottom of page