Best Dives Olhahali

North Malé Atoll, Maldives

The team at Best Dives Olhahali are exactly who you want running your dive operations in North Malé. They’re based out of the Jumeirah, which means a slick setup, but it’s their genuine enthusiasm that really sells it. We love their focus on personalized experiences; none of that cattle boat vibe you sometimes get in the Maldives. They’re PADI 5-star, so if you're looking to complete your Advanced Open Water or just get comfortable again after a break, you're in good hands. Our favourite part about diving with them is their intimate knowledge of the local thilas and channels. They know exactly when and where to drop you for the best chance of spotting grey reef sharks cruising the current. We’d suggest an early morning dive at Lankan Manta Point, even if it means sacrificing some sleep. Seeing those mantas glide in with the sun just breaking the surface is a memory that sticks. The water here feels like silk, a balmy 28 degrees, and the light refracts through the shallows in a hundred different ways. Expect schools of bannerfish so thick they occasionally block your view, and the quiet hum of the current pulling you gently along. They’ll usually offer a couple of different departure times, so always check if there’s a slower boat option if you prefer a more relaxed pace.