Kalhahandhi Kandu (Pannettone) Dive Site

Dive Site: Kalhahandhi Kandu (Pannettone)
Type of Dive Site: Channel
Location: Kalhahandhi Kandu near Thundufushi
Best Time to Dive: South west monsoon.
GPS Position: 03.48025, 072.B670
Depth Range: 5m – 30m
Coral Growth: Excellent
Features: Caves, overhangs and coral block.
Fish Life: Very good
Experience Level: If the current is not too strong, novice divers can dive at Kalhahandhi Kandu (Pannettone), but the site is recommended only for advanced divers during strong current.  

Diving Hints and Currents:

Kalhahandi Kandu or Pannettone as it is also known can be subject to some strong currents at times and washing machines and underwater turbulence is created here, so it is only suitable for novice divers when there are no currents. A long overhang between 12 and 25 metres has fallen to the bottom due to underwater disturbance to the bottom, which is easily noticed when you begin the dive.  Because of the currents, the water is constantly flushing back and forth, giving the channel continuous and constant replenishment.  The reef wall at Kalhahandi Kandu is covered from floor to ceiling with a plethora of multi-coloured soft corals, sea fans, sea whips, and sponges. Squirrelfish, Angelfish, Fairy Basslets, Butterfly Fish, Scorpion Fish, Coral Cod, Triggerfish, Pufferfish and Pipefish in various combinations of colours lurk among the corals and gaps.
 
The shallow part of the reef at Kalhahandi Kandu is the most ideal place at Pannettone to do the required safety stop.  The endless table corals, all in perfect condition, make this reef one of the most important dives in the Maldives. Kalhahandhi Kandu can be dived in both seasons and when current is outflowing, a safety balloon is necessary.