OBLU Xperience Aailafushi & Lobigili Dive Centre

North Malé Atoll, Maldives

The team at OBLU Xperience Aailafushi & Lobigili Dive Centre are exactly what we look for when we’re in the Maldives – friendly, professional, and they know their local sites inside and out. We love that they operate across two resorts, meaning a wider range of dive sites are easily accessible, and there’s a consistent, high standard of service no matter which island you’re staying on. This PADI 5-star centre is perfect for divers who appreciate well-organised trips and instructors who remember your name (and your fin size). We’ve had some fantastic dives with them in North Malé Atoll. Our favourite trips often head to the channel dives, where the current brings in the big stuff. Think grey reef sharks patrolling the drop-offs and eagle rays gliding past in formation – it’s a proper spectacle. Keep an eye out for the schooling bannerfish that congregate on the thilas, too; they’re so dense they look like shimmering walls. We’d suggest getting out on the first boat in the morning. The light is softer, and the reefs feel quieter. They also run excellent introductory courses, so if you’re travelling with a non-diver keen to try, this is a great spot for them to get their fins wet.