Hammerhead Point, Rasdhoo Atoll - North Ari Atoll

Hammerhead Point, sometimes called Madivaru Corner, is exactly what it says on the tin. We’ve done this dive many times on liveaboard transits between Ari and South Malé, often at sunrise, and it’s a real eye-opener. Dropping down onto the reef edge, we usually find a good vantage point, tuck in, and wait. The star attraction here is the scalloped hammerhead shark, often seen cruising in the blue, though grey reef sharks and eagle rays are common companions. Currents can be stiff, so it’s best for experienced divers comfortable with drift diving and managing their buoyancy while stationary.

Location
North Ari Atoll, Maldives, Indian Ocean & East Africa
Coordinates
4.290000, 72.990000

Marine Protected Area: Rasdhoo-Madivaru Sarahahdhu

Best Time to Dive in North Ari Atoll

The warmest water temperatures in North Ari Atoll occur in January, averaging 28.7°C. The coolest conditions are in December at 28.7°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 28.7°C (air: 27.5°C)
  • February: 28.7°C (air: 27.8°C)
  • March: 28.7°C (air: 28.0°C)
  • April: 28.7°C (air: 28.4°C)
  • May: 28.7°C (air: 28.4°C)
  • June: 28.7°C (air: 28.5°C)
  • July: 28.7°C (air: 28.1°C)
  • August: 28.7°C (air: 27.9°C)
  • September: 28.7°C (air: 27.6°C)
  • October: 28.7°C (air: 27.6°C)
  • November: 28.7°C (air: 27.3°C)
  • December: 28.7°C (air: 27.5°C)

Nearby Dive Sites in North Ari Atoll

Nearest Dive Centres to Hammerhead Point, Rasdhoo Atoll

Marine Life in North Ari Atoll

Home to 138 recorded species including 82 hard corals, 38 reef fish, 6 sea snails & nudibranchs, 3 seagrass & algae, 2 sharks & rays, 2 sea cucumbers.

Notable Species

Recommended Packing List for Hammerhead Point, Rasdhoo Atoll

Based on average water temperature of 28.7°C.

  • Shorty or Rashguard - warm 29°C water needs minimal exposure protection
  • Mask - essential for every dive
  • Fins
  • BCD - buoyancy compensator
  • Regulator - your most safety-critical piece of gear
  • Dive Computer - tracks depth, time, and NDL
  • Surface Marker Buoy (SMB) - essential for boat pickups
  • Dive Torch - useful for crevices and colour at depth
  • Underwater Camera - capture your diving memories

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the typical diving depth at Hammerhead Point, Rasdhoo Atoll?
The typical diving depth at Hammerhead Point, Rasdhoo Atoll is not specified in the current data. Divers should consult with their dive operator for up-to-date information on dive profiles at this site.
What marine life can divers expect to encounter at Hammerhead Point, Rasdhoo Atoll?
Divers visiting Hammerhead Point, Rasdhoo Atoll can expect to encounter hammerhead sharks, as the site is renowned for them. It is often referred to as Hammerhead Point for this very reason, suggesting a high probability of spotting these magnificent creatures. For more information on marine life, visit our wildlife database.
How difficult is the Hammerhead Point dive site in Rasdhoo Atoll?
The Hammerhead Point dive site in Rasdhoo Atoll is rated as intermediate in difficulty. This suggests that divers should have some prior experience and comfort with varying conditions.
When is the best time of day and year to dive Hammerhead Point, Rasdhoo Atoll, for hammerhead sharks?
For encountering hammerhead sharks at Hammerhead Point, Rasdhoo Atoll, divers typically kit up in the early morning, as this is when these magnificent creatures are often sighted. The best time of year for these encounters is not specified in the available data. For general information on diving seasons, you can check our when to dive guide.
What diving certifications are required or recommended for Hammerhead Point, Rasdhoo Atoll?
While specific diving certifications are not explicitly listed for Hammerhead Point, Rasdhoo Atoll, its intermediate difficulty rating suggests that divers should possess a certification level that indicates comfort and experience with more challenging conditions. It is always recommended to consult with your dive operator regarding their specific requirements for this site.
What are the typical current and visibility conditions at Hammerhead Point, Rasdhoo Atoll?
The typical current and visibility conditions for Hammerhead Point, Rasdhoo Atoll are not detailed in the available data. Divers should always check with their local dive center or liveaboard operator for the most current conditions before planning their dive.