Sun Siyam – Diving on the South Malé Atoll
Experience the ultimate diving destination in the Maldives’ South Male Atoll, where dolphins, manta rays and colorful reef fish await you. Stay at the luxurious Sun Siyam Olhuveli resort and enjoy breathtaking beaches, delicious restaurants and top-level relaxation.
Travel period
Features
Starting from
Luxury stay in the Maldives on the South Malé Atoll
The Maldives is a special destination and a dream for many divers. Above water, you stay on idyllic islands surrounded by white sandy beaches, swaying palm trees and crystal clear waters that invite relaxation. Underwater, visibility is excellent and teeming with life: colorful reef fish, breathtaking coral formations, dolphins, different species of sharks and majestic manta rays make every dive an unforgettable experience.
In the South Malé Atoll you will discover both calm reefs and spectacular channels and cleaning stations where manta rays congregate. This atoll offers a perfect mix of adventurous storm dives and relaxed reef dives, suitable for both experienced divers and those diving into the ocean for the first time.
You will stay at the luxurious Sun Siyam Olhuveli, a resort that stretches across three islands, connected by elegant bridges. The resort offers everything you need for an unforgettable stay: multiple restaurants with diverse cuisines, two exclusive spas, countless sports and recreational opportunities, and of course ultimate relaxation on the beaches. You can choose a water villa directly over the water with a private veranda, or spacious island and beach villas with private pools – perfect for couples or families who want to experience that extra bit of luxury.
Best travel time for a diving vacation to South Malé Atoll, Maldives
We recommend going here between November and April. You then have the best chance of nice weather and little wind. Mantas are spotted at cleaning stations throughout the year.
Average Temperatures
Wetsuit advice for diving in South Malé Atoll
The water has pleasant temperatures almost year-round, making a 3mm wetsuit sufficient. You could also consider a shorty, but a long wetsuit also gives you protection during drift dives against the coral and walls underwater, for example.
What will you experience on this diving vacation?
View itinerary here
Day 1 & 2 | Trip to the Maldives
Today begins your trip to the Maldives! You start with an overnight flight to the capital Malé, a flight of about 12 to 16 hours. Once you arrive in Malé, you will transfer to a speedboat that will take you to the South Malé Atoll in 45 minutes. This atoll is located in the central part of the Maldives and consists of 30 separate islets.
You will stay at Sun Siyam Olhuveli, a special resort divided between 3 islands: Olhuveli, Dream Island and Romance Island. The 3 islands are connected by bridges. It is a luxury resort where you can enjoy delicious food, beautiful white sandy beaches and clear blue sea.
After checking in, you can immediately enjoy the beautiful view, the white beaches and take a dip in the sea. The diving school is at the resort, so you can also stop by there and get everything in order for the next few days’ dives. For dinner you have a choice of restaurants, but the food at each place is delicious.
Day 3 | Diving on the house reef
The first dive day starts with two dives on the house reef. Often this is an orientation dive so the instructor can assess how comfortable you are in the water. Based on this, the next dives are planned. The dive center is located directly on the house reef, so once you have prepared your equipment, you can step right into the water. With as many as 41 dive sites around Sun Siyam, there is plenty to explore.
The house reef itself is among the finest in the Maldives and has an impressive drop-off where the coral gradually transitions into the deeper waters. The reef is visited almost every night by manta rays, and eagle rays, green and hawksbill turtles, giant trevallies, tuna, jacks and even frogfish are also often seen here. Between 5 and 16 meters of depth, the reef is at its most beautiful: branching and table corals form a colorful backdrop full of damselfish. On the north side is a cleaning station for turtles, a special scene to behold during a relaxing dive.
Later in the week you can dive the house reef again or return there for a night dive, for example.
Day 4 to 9 | Diving around the South Malé Atoll
Over the next few days you will enjoy 2 dives per day, a combination of boat dives or dives on the house reef. You will depart from the resort around 08:00 in the morning and return around 12:00. You will spend the surface interval on the comfortable dive boat, while the South Malé atoll slowly passes by you. This area is known for its healthy reefs, channel diving and the chance of seeing large marine life. Want to do more dives? You can also make a dive in the afternoon and choose a night dive. This can be a ‘normal’ night dive or with blue light.
Some outstanding dive sites in the area are:
- Napoleon Reef – ideal for a drift dive, with many napoleon fish and regular manta rays and whale sharks.
- Banana Reef / Manta Point – known for the cleaning and feeding zones of manta rays, but rays and whitetip reef sharks can also be seen here.
- Guraidhoo Corner – attracts large fish such as gray reef sharks, eagle rays and barracudas during the northeast monsoon.
- Maafushi Caves – perfect for macro photography among colorful soft corals, with nudibranchs, garden murres and the occasional turtle.
- Embudu Express – a challenging dive with strong currents for advanced divers, with sharks, eagle rays and schools of jacks.
In addition, the currents at other dive sites often bring surprises: dolphins, turtles, manta rays and schools of reef fish. There is also a shallow wreck accessible to both divers and snorkelers, a nice change between dives.
After diving, you can relax in the spa, snorkel or join a sunset cruise where dolphins are often spotted. In the evening there is regular entertainment at the resort and you can dine at one of the many restaurants.
For those who prefer not to dive every day, there is also plenty to do above water. There are several water sports to do, but also relaxing in the spa or on the beach is always an option. It is also a fine destination for snnorkelers and freedivers, where you will discover beautiful reefs, a shallow wreck and have the chance to see dolphins, turtles, nurse sharks and manta rays up close.
Day 10 | Enjoying Olhuveli
A new day with plenty of opportunities! Depending on your flight times, you can go for one last dive today, but there is plenty to do above water as well. Relaxing on the pristine white beach remains a fine ending, of course, but those who prefer something active can choose from a variety of water sports. For example, you can take a kayak or paddleboard around the island, or seek some more speed with a fun tube, banana ride, flyboard or the jetcar – a boat shaped like a car.
Also fun is an excursion to the sandbank, a small island made only of white sand. With the clear blue water around you, it feels like you are far from civilization.
Those who prefer to relax can visit one of the two spas. Various treatments are offered and you can use thermal baths, steam rooms and saunas.
You can also take a final sunset cruise, where you have a good chance of encountering dolphins. They like to get close and then often play with the front of the boat. And of course, there is plenty of time for a sumptuous lunch or dinner – a relaxing way to end the trip.
Day 11 | Return home
The last day on paradise has arrived and you will be taken by speedboat back to Malé for your flight home. But why end your adventure here? You can extend your trip with a stay in the northern atolls of the Maldives. Here you will discover colorful coral gardens and a huge variety of marine life, from manta rays and sharks to turtles. Diving enthusiasts will find everything their hearts desire here: vibrant reefs full of reef fish, deeper wreck dives and exciting drift dives through channels. There is plenty for divers of all levels to explore.
For a truly unique experience, you can also go to Fuvahmulah, also known as “Shark Island. This remote island is known for its spectacular shark populations, including the impressive tiger shark. It is a destination for adventurous divers seeking extraordinary encounters with these majestic animals in their natural habitat.
We are happy to help you put together a customized trip so that your stay in the Maldives will be exactly as you envisioned it – whether that’s relaxation, adventure or the ultimate diving experience.
Highlights of this trip
What can you expect from the underwater world around South Malé Atoll?
Diving at Banana Reef Manta Point
Banana Reef is known for its cleaning and feeding zones for manta rays. From late March to early November (sometimes until mid-December), this is one of the best dive sites in the atoll to encounter these impressive animals. Besides manta rays, you can also see stingrays, nurse sharks, leopard sharks and in August even whale sharks here. The dive site has a sandy bottom with coral formations at about 12 meters depth, where white tip reef sharks are regularly spotted.
Encounters with dolphins
The South Male Atoll is an excellent location for dolphin spotting. While diving, you can often encounter groups of spinner dolphins, known for their acrobatic leaps. Other species can also be seen, such as bottlenose dolphins and striped dolphins. Another special activity is the sunset cruise, where you can observe dolphins as they play in the waves, with the sun setting in the background.
Seeing sharks at Kandooma Thila
This is an impressive pinnacle in the middle of the Kandooma Kandu. For 9 years, this dive site was ranked among the 10 best shark dives in the world. The top is covered with hard coral, while the sides are full of soft coral. You can encounter eagle rays, white tip reef sharks, barracudas, green sea turtles, gray reef sharks and sometimes tiger sharks here. On the west side, “Jack Corner,” teems with large schools of jacks, barracudas, snappers and other hunters, with turtles and napoleon fish quietly drifting by in the current.
The accommodation
The accommodation and facilities
Sun Siyam Olhuveli
Sun Siyam is a luxury 4-star resort in the South Malé Atoll. The resort is spread over 3 different islets, connected by bridges. You have a choice of accommodations: from beach villas to water villas with private pools. In addition, you also have the choice of staying on Main Island (Olhuveli), Dream Island or Romance Island. Wherever you are, you are surrounded by white sandy beaches and beautiful turquoise waters.
All accommodations come with air conditioning, Wi-Fi and a king-size bed. In addition, some accommodations are also equipped with a bathtub, Jacuzzi tub or separate living area.
The resort also offers plenty in terms of exercise and relaxation: there are 3 swimming pools, a gym, a water sports center, diving school, tennis and badminton courts and 2 spas. There is even an on-site doctor.
There are additionally several restaurants to choose from. There are buffet restaurants, but in addition you can also go to the Thai or Indian restaurant, for example. Or, of course, the pizzeria. The restaurants either have a fantastic view over the water, or are literally located on the water. There are also several bars, some of which are adult only. Want a really romantic setting? Then it can even be arranged for you to eat directly on the beach, somewhere on the island.
Accommodation options
There are a total of 12 different accommodation types, each with its own amenities and price point. We like to highlight some of the rooms, but most importantly, let us know what you’re looking for: a water villa, a private pool, a family room or something else. Then we can show you exactly what options are available to you.
Beach Pavilion & Sunset Beach Pavilion rooms
The room is a bit more compact, but cleverly laid out. Whether you choose the terrace or balcony, there is a lounger, sofa and everything you need – without it feeling cramped. The taupe, black and gray tones create a calm interior atmosphere. Pavilion rooms can be connected to rooms with Twin or King-size beds. Right outside these Beach Pavilion rooms is the longest pool in the Maldives (210 meters) with its own bar.
The room is 50 m², light just a few steps from the beach and has a terrace or balcony.
You can also choose the sunset beach pavilion room, which is located on the west side of the island and gives you a beautiful view of the sunset every day.
Deluxe Water Villa
More spacious than the standard Water Villa and decorated in classic Maldivian style. The Deluxe Water Villa has a master bedroom with sitting area and stunning lagoon views. The bathroom has a freestanding bathtub overlooking the Indian Ocean. You can relax on the sun deck or take the stairs directly into the water.
The villa is 82 m², has a private sundeck and a freestanding bath with a view. It can accommodate up to 3 adults or 2 adults and 1 child.
Beach Villa with pool
The perfect beach villa in the Maldives. The location is ideal: right on the beach and a few steps from the lagoon. The infinity pool is also on the beach, making the view seamless from sea to sky. Lovely to alternate between a dip in the pool and a refreshing splash in the lagoon. The bright, tropical bathroom completes the experience.
The villa is 91 square meters, is located right on the beach, has a private oceanfront pool and can accommodate up to 3 adults or 2 adults and 2 children.
The dive center
The diving school and facilities
Sun Diving
Sun Diving is the resort’s SSI dive school and is located right on the jetty, so you can easily hop on the boat for your diving adventure. Dives are made from a dhoni, a comfortable boat that has room for up to 20 divers. There are also 2 toilets and 2 showers on board and you can stay on the sunset as well as in the shade.
In addition to diving, Sun Diving also organizes snorkeling excursions, for example to spot whale sharks in their natural habitat. For those who want to try something new, courses in freediving and even mermaiding are available. The experienced instructors ensure a safe and enjoyable experience, whatever your level or interest.
Travel costs
What is included
The price of this diving trip to the Maldives is on request. There are often early booking discounts and other ongoing promotions, which can significantly affect the price. There are also many different options in room type. We will always show you when you can go for the lowest price.
The diving trip can be expanded as desired. A number of things are included by default in this travel package. Prices are subject to price changes, increases or changing exchange rates. Flights are always based on the cheapest possible booking class.
Want to know more about this diving vacation to the South Malé Atoll? Get in touch with us!
Included in this dive trip
- 9 nights in a Beach Pavilion room
- Stay on an all-inclusive basis
- Dive package consisting of 14 dives
- Nitrox for certified divers
- Use of kayaks & sup boards
- Spa credit of $50
- Sunset cruise & Local Island Experience
- Access to gym & tennis court
- Return transfers
- VZR & Administration fee
Excluding
- Flight to Malé from US$ 809 p.p.
- Green Tax ($108)
- 10% service charge and 17% GST on all products and services you purchase locally
- Dive & Travel Insurance
✈︎ The quoted (international) flight prices are indicative prices and based on departures from Europe. However, we can arrange flights from any location worldwide. Booking your own flights is of course also possible.
Optional
- 15L tank ($10 per tank)
- Diving equipment ($18 per dive)
- Night dive ($10 extra)
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Frequently asked questions about Sun Siyam Olhuveli
Diving general
A mix of house reef diving, drift diving, deep diving, shallow diving, night diving with or without Blue Lights, wreck diving, channel diving, sidemount diving and underwater scooter diving
You will make dives on the house reef as well as dives from the boat. You often start with an orientation/check dive on the house reef, so that the dive center can assess how comfortable you are in the water. Furthermore, each day it varies whether you dive by boat or from the house reef, but most dives are done by boat.
No, this is not possible. You always dive with an instructor from Sun Diving.
You can make a maximum of 3 dives per day: 2 in the morning, 1 in the afternoon and 1 night dive.
The dive sites are around 25 minutes or less by boat. Kuda Giri Wreck is the farthest away and is about an hour boat ride away.
Yes, it is possible to make a night dive. Night dives are subject to a $10 surcharge.
Yes, there is a fantastically beautiful house reef.
Yes, several SSI courses are offered.
Yes, it’s a great place for snorkeling (and freediving!). There are also quite a few excursions for snorkeling. For example, you can snorkel with manta rays, nurse sharks and dolphins. You can also opt for a snorkel excursion to a wreck. Of course, you can also snorkel in the water around the resort. You can use snorkeling equipment free of charge.
Yes, the diving school is on-site and located on the beach, near the jetty so you can get on the boat directly.
Diving equipment
Both tanks are available.
Yes, 15L tanks are available. The additional cost for using a 15L tank is $14.50 including taxes.
Yes, you can. If you bring your own equipment it’s no problem. You can even take a side-mount course.
Yes. Certified divers can dive with nitrox for free.
Yes, renting a full set costs $18 per dive.
Your equipment is brought on the boat by the boat crew before the dive and put on the tank, the divers have to check that everything is in good order and check the Nitrox percentage themselves. The boat crew bring the diving equipment from the boat to the dive center, wash it and store it in the “wetroom”
Resort
Breakfast
- Extensive buffet with international dishes
Lunch
- International buffet with live cooking stations
- Thai dishes
- Pizzas, salads and light snacks
- Dine Around: 3 course lunch
Afternoon tea
- Coffee and tea with light snacks
Dinner
- Extensive dinner buffet
- Thai, Indian, Italian and Mediterranean dishes
- Pizzas, salads and light snacks
- Dine on the beach or at a la carte restaurants
Unlimited selected beverages
- Wines, international beers, cocktails and mocktails
- Fresh juices and soft drinks
- Coffee and tea
- Bottled water (still and sparkling)
The bar is open 24 hours a day. Theminibar is replenished daily with soft drinks, snacks, wine and beer
There are also a number of activities included in the all-inclusive stay.
- Use of kayaks and paddleboards (1 hour per day)
- Use of snorkeling equipment
- 20% discount on use of motorized water sports
- $50 spa credit per person
- $50 dive credit and 1 free orientation dive for certified divers
- Sunset cruise & Local Island Experience
- Access to the gym and tennis court
Yes, it is also possible to stay on a full board basis instead of all-inclusive. For example, you do not have access to the à-la carte restaurants unless you pay extra for them. Also, no activities are included. Feel free to ask us about all the differences and the differences in price.
When staying on a full board basis, the following is included:
- Breakfast: Extensive buffet with international dishes.
- Lunch: International buffet with live cooking stations.
- Dinner: Comprehensive dinner buffet with live cooking stations.
- Drinks: Water during meals at buffet restaurants included.
- Spa credit: US$50 per adult per stay.
- Special discount: 40% off menu prices at à la carte restaurants (food only).
There are several restaurants at the resort.
- Multiple buffet style restaurants
- Thai restaurant
- Indian restaurant
- Pizzeria
- Seafood grill restaurant
There are also a number of bars, both at restaurants and by the pools.
Yes, it is a child-friendly resort. So there are 2 children’s pools, a kids club and Sun Siyam offers a babysitting service. But there are also some adult only spots, both restaurant, bar and pool.
In addition to the listed price, a 10% service charge and 17% GST (Goods & Services Tax) apply for products and services you purchase on site, such as drinks, spa treatments, excursions or other extras. These charges will be settled with your bill at the venue.
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