Banana Reef Dive Site

Type of Dive Site:  Wall / Thila (Pinnacle)
Location: North Male Atoll.
Best Time to Dive: All year sound
GPS Position: 04.15000, 73.32000
Depth Range: 5m – 30m
Coral Growth: Excellent
Features: Caves, overhangs and coral heads
Fish Life: Abundant
Experience Level: Novice

Diving Hints and Currents:

 Banana Reef was the first dive site to ever be discovered in the Maldives and is still among the best. The best diving at this site is on the banana-shaped area in the northeastern where there are caves, gutters and overhangs filled with fish life and soft coral. Spend as much time as possible near the coral heads; if you begin the dive with your left shoulder to the reef, this is an excellent way to observe the area. At Banana Reef, you are likely to see many fish, including Oriental Sweetlips, Giant Squirrelfish, Bannerfish and many other species that congregate in this spot. When the currents are strong, underwater turbulence can be experienced near the near the large overhang. Stay near the wall and don’t let the current push you away. A surface balloon is necessary as boat traffic can be heavy at times.