Bolifushi Wreck - South Malé Atoll

The Bolifushi Wreck is one of those sites we always recommend for a relaxed afternoon dive, especially if you're looking for something other than a channel drift. It sits upright at 21 metres, a purpose-sunk fishing trawler that’s now completely taken over by the reef. What we really love about it is how accessible it is; even newer divers can spend a good chunk of bottom time exploring the deck and peering into the holds. Expect to see large schools of fusiliers swirling around the superstructure, their silver scales glinting as they catch the light filtering down. We've often spotted white-tip reef sharks cruising lazily past the bow, and a giant moray eel seems to have made its home near the stern. Look closely at the deck rails and mast for some surprisingly colourful nudibranchs. Our best tip? Go late afternoon. The light plays beautifully through the wreck, and it often feels like you have the whole place to yourself.

Location
South Malé Atoll, Maldives, Indian Ocean & East Africa
Coordinates
4.087900, 73.403300
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
21m
Difficulty
Beginner

Wreck History - Bolifushi Wreck

Vessel Type
barge
Cause
scuttled

The Bolifushi Wreck, often known to local divers as the Kuda Giri Wreck, is a purpose-sunk artificial reef that has become one of the most beloved dive sites in the South Malé Atoll. Intentionally scuttled to create a new marine habitat, this small barge rests perfectly upright on a sandy bottom at a maximum depth of 21 meters, with its top deck accessible at around 15 meters. Its manageable depth and generally calm conditions make it an ideal site for divers of all certification levels, including those on their first wreck dive.

Despite its small size, the wreck is bursting with life. The hull is now completely covered in soft corals and sponges, attracting a dense cloud of glassfish that part and swirl around visiting divers. It is a macro photographer's paradise, with countless critters hiding in its nooks and crannies. Look closely for well-camouflaged frogfish, colorful nudibranchs, resident moray eels, and reclusive lionfish. The combination of a fascinating structure and vibrant marine life makes the Bolifushi Wreck a must-do dive for anyone visiting the Maldives.

Marine Protected Area: Dhekunu Thilafalhuge Miyaruvani

Best Time to Dive in South Malé Atoll

The warmest water temperatures in South Malé Atoll occur in April, averaging 30.4°C. The coolest conditions are in January at 28.5°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 28.5°C
  • February: 28.8°C
  • March: 29.4°C
  • April: 30.4°C
  • May: 30.1°C
  • June: 29.6°C
  • July: 29.7°C
  • August: 29.6°C
  • September: 29.4°C
  • October: 29.3°C
  • November: 29.3°C
  • December: 29.0°C

Nearby Dive Sites in South Malé Atoll

Nearest Dive Centres to Bolifushi Wreck

Marine Life in South Malé Atoll

Home to 106 recorded species including 44 reef fish, 41 hard corals, 6 sea snails & nudibranchs, 4 seagrass & algae, 3 sharks & rays, 2 other.

Notable Species

Recommended Packing List for Bolifushi Wreck

Based on average water temperature of 29.4°C, currents 19 cm/s.

  • 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