Eydhafushi Island

Discover the administrative capital of Baa Atoll, blending modern amenities with traditional Maldivian culture in the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve

Welcome to Eydhafushi Island

Located in the stunning Baa Atoll, Eydhafushi Island serves as the administrative capital of this UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. As the atoll's main hub, Eydhafushi offers visitors a unique blend of modern amenities and authentic Maldivian island life, making it an ideal base for exploring the surrounding natural wonders.

What makes Eydhafushi special is its dual identity as both an administrative center and a traditional island community. Unlike smaller islands, Eydhafushi features more developed infrastructure, government offices, educational facilities, and healthcare services while still maintaining its cultural heritage and island charm. The island's relatively large population creates a vibrant atmosphere where visitors can experience genuine local life.

Visitors to Eydhafushi are drawn by its strategic location as a gateway to the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, including the world-famous Hanifaru Bay. The island offers comfortable accommodations, dining options, and convenient transportation connections to nearby uninhabited islands, sandbanks, and luxury resorts. Eydhafushi provides an authentic glimpse into contemporary Maldivian life while serving as an excellent starting point for exploring the natural treasures of Baa Atoll.

Quick Facts

  • Location: Baa Atoll, UNESCO Biosphere Reserve
  • Island Type: Inhabited Local Island, Atoll Capital
  • Population: Approximately 3,000 residents
  • Size: 1.2 km long, 0.7 km wide
  • Distance from Male: 115 km
  • Transfer Options: Public ferry, speedboat, domestic flight to Dharavandhoo
  • Known For: Administrative center, gateway to Hanifaru Bay
  • Best For: Cultural immersion, convenient base for exploration

Location & Map

Eydhafushi Island is situated in the eastern part of Baa Atoll, approximately 115 kilometers northwest of Male. As the atoll capital, it occupies a central position within the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, surrounded by crystal-clear waters and numerous uninhabited islands.

Its strategic location provides excellent access to some of the region's most pristine marine environments, including the world-famous Hanifaru Bay, known for its seasonal aggregations of manta rays and whale sharks. Eydhafushi's position as the administrative hub means it has better transportation connections than most local islands, making it an ideal base for exploring the atoll.

How to Get There

  • Public Ferry: Departs from Male on Sunday, Tuesday, and Thursday at 8:30 AM, arriving at Eydhafushi around 3:00 PM (journey time: approximately 6.5 hours, cost: around $4-6)
  • Speedboat: Available from Male to Eydhafushi (journey time: approximately 2.5-3 hours, cost: around $60-70 per person)
  • Domestic Flight: Fly from Velana International Airport to Dharavandhoo Airport (approximately 30 minutes), then take a 15-minute speedboat to Eydhafushi (total cost: around $120-140)
  • Private Transfer: Charter boats and speedboats can be arranged through guesthouses or travel agencies

Eydhafushi: The Administrative Heart of Baa Atoll

As the capital island of Baa Atoll, Eydhafushi serves as the administrative and economic center of this UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. The island hosts important government offices, educational institutions, and healthcare facilities that serve the entire atoll.

Island Governance

Atoll Council

Atoll Council

Eydhafushi houses the Baa Atoll Council, which oversees governance and development projects across all islands in the atoll. The council plays a crucial role in implementing conservation measures for the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.

Economic Hub

Economic Hub

The island serves as the economic center for Baa Atoll, with a range of businesses, banks, and commercial services. The harbor area bustles with activity as goods are distributed to surrounding islands.

Tourism Management

Tourism Management

Eydhafushi coordinates tourism activities throughout the atoll, including management of the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. Conservation officers and marine biologists often base their research operations from the island.

Transportation Hub

Transportation Hub

The island serves as a transportation nexus for Baa Atoll, with regular connections to Male and other islands. Its well-developed harbor accommodates various vessels from traditional dhonis to modern speedboats.

Educational Facilities

Eydhafushi hosts important educational institutions:

  • Baa Atoll Education Center, providing education from primary through secondary levels
  • Vocational training centers offering skills development for local youth
  • Adult education programs focusing on sustainable development and conservation
  • Environmental education initiatives related to the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve
  • Library and resource center serving the entire atoll
  • Distance learning facilities connecting to educational institutions in Male
  • Special programs teaching traditional crafts and cultural heritage

These educational resources make Eydhafushi an intellectual hub for the atoll, preserving knowledge while preparing new generations for sustainable development.

Healthcare Services

The island provides essential healthcare for the atoll:

  • Baa Atoll Hospital offering general medical services and emergency care
  • Maternal and child health services supporting families across the atoll
  • Pharmacy services providing medications for residents and visitors
  • Preventive healthcare programs addressing common health concerns
  • Medical evacuation coordination for cases requiring treatment in Male
  • Public health initiatives focusing on community wellbeing
  • Regular visiting specialist clinics from Male-based doctors
  • Traditional medicine practitioners working alongside modern healthcare

These healthcare facilities ensure that both residents and visitors have access to medical care while staying in Baa Atoll.

Accommodation on Eydhafushi Island

Eydhafushi offers a wider range of accommodation options than many other local islands, reflecting its status as the atoll capital. From comfortable guesthouses to boutique hotels, visitors can find suitable lodging while experiencing authentic Maldivian hospitality.

Eydhafushi Guesthouses

Modern Guesthouses

Several well-appointed guesthouses offer comfortable accommodations with modern amenities. These properties typically feature air-conditioned rooms with private bathrooms, hot water, Wi-Fi, and satellite TV, while still providing authentic Maldivian hospitality and home-cooked meals.

Price Range: $50-80 per night

Features: Air conditioning, private bathrooms, Wi-Fi, dining facilities, excursion arrangements

Eydhafushi Boutique Hotels

Boutique Hotels

A few small boutique hotels offer a higher level of comfort and service. These establishments feature more spacious rooms, enhanced amenities, and additional services like room service, airport transfers, and dedicated tour desks to arrange activities throughout the atoll.

Price Range: $75-120 per night

Features: Premium furnishings, enhanced amenities, restaurant facilities, business services, tour desk

Eydhafushi Family Stays

Family Homestays

For travelers seeking cultural immersion, several families offer homestay experiences. These provide the most authentic glimpse into island life, with guests sharing meals and daily activities with their host family while enjoying basic but comfortable accommodation.

Price Range: $40-60 per night, including meals

Features: Cultural immersion, family interaction, traditional meals, local knowledge

Accommodation Tips

  • Book accommodations in advance, especially during high season (November to April)
  • Many guesthouses offer full-board or half-board packages that include meals
  • Accommodations can arrange excursions to Hanifaru Bay and other attractions
  • Most properties are within walking distance of the beach, shops, and restaurants
  • Wi-Fi is generally available but may be slower than international standards
  • Remember that Eydhafushi is a Muslim island, so alcohol is not available (though some excursions to resort islands may serve alcohol)
  • Modest dress is required in public areas of the island (shoulders and knees covered)
  • The designated "bikini beach" is where tourists can wear Western-style swimwear
  • Most accommodations can arrange airport transfers and assist with transportation logistics
  • Some properties offer bicycle rentals for exploring the island

Island Facilities & Infrastructure

As the atoll capital, Eydhafushi boasts more developed infrastructure and facilities than most local islands in the Maldives. The island provides a range of services that support both residents and visitors while maintaining its authentic character.

Shopping

Eydhafushi features several general stores, souvenir shops, and a small market area. Visitors can purchase daily necessities, local handicrafts, and traditional Maldivian products. The island also has a few clothing stores selling modest attire suitable for the local environment.

Dining

The island offers several cafés and small restaurants serving Maldivian cuisine, seafood, and some international dishes. Most guesthouses also provide dining facilities for their guests, featuring fresh local ingredients and traditional cooking methods.

Healthcare

Eydhafushi hosts the Baa Atoll Hospital, providing general medical services, emergency care, and basic diagnostic facilities. The island also has several pharmacies stocking essential medications and health products.

Internet & Communication

Mobile coverage is excellent from both Dhiraagu and Ooredoo networks. Most accommodations and several cafés offer Wi-Fi, with better connectivity than smaller islands. The island also has a few internet cafés providing computer access and printing services.

Banking

Eydhafushi has a branch of the Bank of Maldives with ATM services, allowing visitors to withdraw cash in Maldivian rufiyaa. Some guesthouses and shops also accept major credit cards, though cash is preferred for smaller purchases.

Power

The island has a reliable power supply with 24-hour electricity. Power outages are rare, and many businesses and accommodations have backup generators. Standard Maldivian power outlets are compatible with European plugs (230V).

Religious Facilities

The island has several mosques, including the main Friday Mosque. Visitors are welcome to view the exterior of these buildings but should dress modestly and respect prayer times. Non-Muslims are generally not permitted inside the prayer halls.

Harbor & Transportation

Eydhafushi features a well-developed harbor that accommodates various vessels from traditional dhonis to modern speedboats. The island serves as a transportation hub for Baa Atoll, with regular connections to Male and surrounding islands.

Additional Infrastructure Notes

  • The island has paved roads in central areas, making it easier to navigate than smaller islands
  • Public beaches are well-maintained through regular community cleanup efforts
  • Waste management systems are more advanced than on smaller islands, with recycling initiatives
  • The island has several public squares and meeting areas where locals gather in the evenings
  • Educational facilities include the Baa Atoll Education Center and vocational training centers
  • Sports facilities include a football field, volleyball courts, and a small indoor sports complex
  • Government offices include the Atoll Council, police station, and conservation management center
  • The island has a post office providing domestic and international mail services
  • Street lighting is available throughout most of the island, making evening walks safe
  • Several tour operators have offices on the island, offering excursions throughout Baa Atoll

Beaches & Marine Life

While Eydhafushi is primarily an administrative center, it still offers beautiful beaches and access to the spectacular marine environment that makes Baa Atoll a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. The island's beaches may be less extensive than those on smaller islands, but they provide pleasant areas for relaxation and swimming.

Island Beaches

Eydhafushi features several beach areas around its perimeter. The eastern beach is particularly pleasant, with white sand and clear waters. The northern beach area offers views toward nearby uninhabited islands and is popular for sunset watching. While some beaches are used by the local community for fishing boats and daily activities, there are designated areas for visitors.

Bikini Beach

The island has a designated "bikini beach" where tourists can wear Western-style swimwear. This area is clearly marked and provides a relaxing environment while respecting local cultural norms. The remaining beaches require modest dress as they are used by the local community.

Gateway to Marine Wonders

Eydhafushi's greatest marine asset is its position as a gateway to the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve's underwater treasures. While the house reef is less extensive than some islands, the island serves as an excellent base for excursions to nearby marine hotspots, including the world-famous Hanifaru Bay and numerous pristine coral reefs surrounding uninhabited islands.

Marine Highlights of Baa Atoll

Eydhafushi serves as the perfect base to explore these marine wonders:

  • Hanifaru Bay: World-famous marine protected area where plankton concentrations attract dozens of manta rays and whale sharks (seasonal, May-November)
  • Dhonfanu House Reef: Vibrant coral reef with abundant marine life just a short boat ride away
  • Dharavandhoo Thila: Popular dive site featuring colorful soft corals and diverse reef fish
  • Horubadhoo Reef: Excellent snorkeling site with high coral coverage and turtle sightings
  • Muthafushi Corner: Dive site known for reef sharks, eagle rays, and occasional manta ray encounters
  • Nelivaru Haa: Deep reef formation attracting pelagic species and featuring stunning coral gardens
  • Mendhoo House Reef: Accessible snorkeling site with healthy coral and abundant reef fish
  • Milaidhoo House Reef: Pristine reef system surrounding a nearby luxury resort island
  • Underwater visibility often exceeding 20-30 meters during optimal conditions (December-April)

Eydhafushi's position within the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve provides convenient access to some of the Maldives' most spectacular marine environments.

Activities & Experiences

Eydhafushi offers a range of activities that blend cultural experiences with natural exploration. As the atoll capital, it provides excellent facilities for organizing excursions throughout Baa Atoll's UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.

Hanifaru Bay Excursions

Hanifaru Bay Excursions

Join guided trips to the world-famous Hanifaru Bay, where seasonal plankton blooms attract large aggregations of manta rays and whale sharks. This UNESCO protected marine area offers one of the most spectacular natural phenomena in the Maldives (seasonal, May-November).

Snorkeling Excursions

Snorkeling Excursions

Participate in organized snorkeling trips to nearby reefs and marine hotspots. Local guides know the best locations for marine life encounters, coral formations, and underwater visibility based on current conditions and seasons.

Sandbank Excursions

Sandbank Excursions

Visit pristine uninhabited sandbanks for picnics, swimming, and the ultimate desert island experience with stunning views and photo opportunities in the crystal-clear waters.

Cultural Experiences in Eydhafushi

Cultural Experiences

Participate in traditional activities like coconut harvesting, rope making, or handicraft demonstrations. Learn about local customs, cooking techniques, and daily practices from friendly island residents always willing to share their heritage.

Night Fishing

Traditional Fishing

Experience traditional fishing methods with local fishermen, using hand lines to catch reef fish. Both day and night fishing trips are available, offering insights into this important aspect of Maldivian culture and livelihood.

Island Hopping from Eydhafushi

Island Hopping

Visit neighboring islands like Dhonfanu, Thulhaadhoo, or Fulhadhoo to experience different communities and natural environments throughout Baa Atoll. Each island has its own character and specialties.

Dolphin Watching

Dolphin Watching

Join sunset cruises to spot playful dolphins in the waters around Baa Atoll. Several species, including spinner dolphins, are commonly seen performing acrobatic displays in the channels between islands.

Resort Day Trips

Resort Day Visits

Arrange day trips to nearby luxury resorts like Soneva Fushi, Milaidhoo, or Dusit Thani where you can enjoy premium facilities, dining, and beverages as a day visitor.

Activity Booking Information

  • Eydhafushi has several tour operators and excursion desks offering organized activities
  • Most guesthouses and hotels can arrange excursions for their guests
  • Prices vary depending on the activity, group size, and season
  • Hanifaru Bay trips cost approximately $60-80 per person (seasonal, May-November)
  • Snorkeling excursions range from $30-50 per person
  • Traditional fishing trips cost approximately $25-40 per person
  • Sandbank excursions typically cost $40-55 per person, including refreshments
  • Island hopping trips cost around $45-65 per person, depending on the number of islands visited
  • Dolphin watching cruises range from $35-50 per person
  • Resort day visits cost approximately $100-180 depending on the resort and inclusions
  • Some activities are weather-dependent and may be rescheduled if conditions are unfavorable
  • Book activities at least a day in advance to ensure availability

People & Community Life

Eydhafushi is home to a vibrant community of approximately 3,000 residents who blend traditional Maldivian values with a more cosmopolitan outlook. As the atoll capital, the island attracts people from throughout Baa Atoll for work, education, and commerce, creating a diverse and dynamic social environment.

Daily Life

Daily life on Eydhafushi reflects its role as an administrative center. Government offices, schools, and businesses operate during regular hours, creating a structured rhythm to weekdays. The harbor area bustles with activity as fishing boats, supply vessels, and tourist transfers come and go. Despite this more urban character, the island still maintains the relaxed pace and friendly atmosphere characteristic of Maldivian communities.

Culture & Traditions

Eydhafushi preserves many traditional Maldivian customs and cultural practices while embracing its role as a regional hub. Religious observances remain important, with the island's mosques serving as spiritual centers. Cultural expressions such as music, dance, and handicrafts continue to thrive, with the island hosting occasional cultural events and festivals that attract participants from throughout the atoll.

Community Spirit

Despite its larger size and administrative function, Eydhafushi maintains a strong sense of community. Island residents participate in collective activities like beach cleanups, conservation initiatives, and community development projects. The island's role in managing the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve has fostered environmental awareness and pride in the atoll's natural heritage. Visitors are welcomed warmly and often invited to participate in community events and activities.

Eydhafushi Island Community Eydhafushi Community Gathering

Cultural Etiquette for Visitors

  • Dress Modestly: When in the village or public areas, both men and women should cover shoulders and knees. Swimwear is only appropriate at designated "bikini beaches."
  • Respect Religious Practices: Be mindful of prayer times and avoid loud activities near the mosque during these periods. During Ramadan, avoid eating, drinking, or smoking in public during daylight hours.
  • Greeting Customs: A warm smile and greeting of "Assalaam Alaikum" (Peace be upon you) is appreciated. Men typically shake hands with men, while some women may prefer not to shake hands with male visitors out of religious observance.
  • Ask Before Photographing: Always ask permission before taking photos of local people, especially women and children.
  • Remove Shoes: Remove footwear before entering homes, mosques, or some shops.
  • Public Behavior: Public displays of affection are inappropriate in this conservative community. Alcohol consumption and pork are prohibited on the island.
  • Environmental Respect: Dispose of waste properly and avoid damaging coral or marine life when snorkeling.
  • Community Engagement: Accept invitations to community events when offered, as this is considered a gesture of friendship and respect.

Visitor Experiences

Hear what previous visitors have to say about their stay on Eydhafushi Island:

Staying in Eydhafushi gave me the perfect balance of convenience and authentic Maldivian culture. As the atoll capital, it had more facilities than I expected - reliable Wi-Fi, several good restaurants, and even an ATM, which is rare on local islands! My guesthouse was modern and comfortable, with excellent service and delicious meals. What made Eydhafushi special was its position as a gateway to Baa Atoll's natural wonders. I took a day trip to Hanifaru Bay where I swam with over a dozen manta rays - an experience I'll never forget. The island's tour operators were professional and knowledgeable, offering various excursions to nearby uninhabited islands and sandbanks. Despite being more developed than other local islands, Eydhafushi still maintained its cultural authenticity. I enjoyed walking through the neighborhoods, chatting with friendly locals, and observing daily island life. For travelers who want a comfortable base with good amenities while still experiencing the real Maldives, Eydhafushi is perfect. It's especially ideal for those interested in exploring the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve without the resort price tag.

David from UK

David M.

United Kingdom, visited August 2023

I chose Eydhafushi as my base for exploring Baa Atoll, and it was the perfect decision for a solo female traveler. The island felt safe and welcoming, with enough infrastructure to make my stay comfortable while still offering an authentic experience. My boutique hotel was surprisingly sophisticated with excellent facilities and staff who helped arrange all my activities. What impressed me most was the island's role in managing the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve - there was a real sense of pride and environmental awareness among locals. I participated in a beach cleanup organized by a community group and learned so much about conservation efforts in the atoll. The highlight was definitely the marine excursions - snorkeling with manta rays at Hanifaru Bay was breathtaking, and the dolphin watching cruise at sunset was magical. I also appreciated having several dining options and shops, which isn't always the case on smaller islands. While Eydhafushi doesn't have the picture-perfect beaches of uninhabited islands, it makes up for it with cultural experiences and convenient access to natural wonders. I'd recommend it especially for travelers who want to explore Baa Atoll's marine environment while enjoying more amenities than typically found on local islands.

Sophia from Canada

Sophia J.

Canada, visited July 2023

Experience the Gateway to Baa Atoll's Wonders

Discover Eydhafushi Island, the perfect base for exploring the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve while enjoying comfortable amenities and authentic Maldivian culture. Book your stay today for an unforgettable adventure in Baa Atoll.

Plan Your Trip

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get to Eydhafushi Island?

Eydhafushi Island is accessible via several transportation options. The most common route is by public ferry from Male, which operates three times a week (Sunday, Tuesday, and Thursday), departing at 8:30 AM and arriving at Eydhafushi around 3:00 PM. The ferry journey takes approximately 6.5 hours and costs about $4-6 per person. For a faster option, you can take a speedboat directly from Male to Eydhafushi, which takes about 2.5-3 hours and costs around $60-70 per person. The most convenient but expensive option is to take a domestic flight from Velana International Airport to Dharavandhoo Airport (approximately 30 minutes), followed by a 15-minute speedboat to Eydhafushi. This combined journey costs around $120-140 but cuts travel time significantly. Most guesthouses and hotels on Eydhafushi can arrange transfers and will provide detailed information about the best options based on your arrival date and preferences. As the atoll capital, Eydhafushi has better transportation connections than most local islands in Baa Atoll.

What is the best time to visit Eydhafushi Island?

The best time to visit Eydhafushi Island depends on your interests. For general sightseeing and comfortable weather, the northeast monsoon season (November to April) brings dry, sunny conditions with lower humidity and calmer seas. This period is ideal for island exploration and water activities, with January to March typically offering the most reliable weather conditions. If you're specifically interested in manta ray and whale shark encounters at nearby Hanifaru Bay, plan your visit between May and November, with peak season being June to October when plankton concentrations attract these magnificent creatures. This coincides with the southwest monsoon season, which brings occasional rain showers and slightly rougher seas, though there are still many sunny days. As the atoll capital, Eydhafushi has activities and amenities available year-round, making it less seasonal than some destinations. Water temperature remains warm (27-30°C/80-86°F) throughout the year. For the best balance of good weather and marine life encounters, consider visiting during the transitional months of April-May or October-November when you might experience the benefits of both seasons.

What makes Eydhafushi different from other local islands in the Maldives?

Eydhafushi distinguishes itself from other local islands through its status as the administrative capital of Baa Atoll. This role gives the island several unique characteristics: First, it has more developed infrastructure and amenities than typical local islands, including government offices, a hospital, educational institutions, banking services, and a wider range of shops and restaurants. Second, Eydhafushi serves as a transportation hub with better connections to Male and surrounding islands, making it more accessible and convenient as a base for exploration. Third, the island plays a central role in managing the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, hosting conservation offices and environmental initiatives that create a strong awareness of sustainability. Fourth, while smaller islands might offer more pristine beaches, Eydhafushi compensates with its strategic location providing easy access to Hanifaru Bay and other natural wonders of Baa Atoll. Fifth, the island has a larger, more diverse population creating a dynamic community with a blend of traditional and contemporary Maldivian life. For travelers, this means enjoying more comfortable amenities and services while still experiencing authentic culture, plus the convenience of organized excursions to natural attractions throughout the atoll. Eydhafushi is particularly suitable for visitors who want a comfortable base with good facilities while exploring the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.

What activities can I do from Eydhafushi Island?

Eydhafushi offers an excellent base for a wide range of activities throughout Baa Atoll. The most popular excursion is to Hanifaru Bay (seasonal, May-November), where visitors can snorkel with manta rays and whale sharks during plankton blooms. Snorkeling trips to nearby reefs and marine hotspots are available year-round, with local guides knowing the best locations based on current conditions. Island hopping excursions allow you to visit other inhabited islands like Dhonfanu, Thulhaadhoo (known for lacquerware crafts), and Fulhadhoo with its pristine beaches. Uninhabited island and sandbank picnics offer the quintessential desert island experience with pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters. Traditional fishing trips, both day and night versions, provide cultural insights while catching dinner. Dolphin watching cruises, especially at sunset, offer opportunities to see spinner dolphins and other species performing acrobatic displays. Cultural experiences on Eydhafushi itself include handicraft demonstrations, cooking classes, and community events. Day visits to nearby luxury resorts like Soneva Fushi or Milaidhoo can be arranged for those wanting to experience resort amenities. Water sports including kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and windsurfing are available through some guesthouses and tour operators. As the atoll capital, Eydhafushi has several tour operators who can arrange custom excursions based on your interests.

What marine life can I see in Baa Atoll?

Baa Atoll's designation as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve reflects its exceptional marine biodiversity. The most famous seasonal phenomenon occurs at Hanifaru Bay, where plankton blooms (May-November) attract feeding aggregations of manta rays and whale sharks. Sometimes dozens of mantas can be seen in this marine protected area, creating an unforgettable snorkeling experience. Throughout the atoll, coral reefs feature both hard corals (brain coral, staghorn coral, table coral) and colorful soft corals creating vibrant underwater landscapes. Reef fish are abundant, including various species of butterflyfish, angelfish, parrotfish, surgeonfish, and triggerfish displaying spectacular colors. Several shark species inhabit the atoll's waters, with blacktip and whitetip reef sharks commonly spotted around reef edges and channels. Green and hawksbill sea turtles are frequently encountered feeding on seagrass beds or resting among coral formations. Various ray species including eagle rays, stingrays, and occasionally mobula rays glide over sandy areas and reef flats. Moray eels, octopus, and reef cuttlefish provide fascinating encounters for observant snorkelers exploring coral crevices. Pelagic species like tuna, jackfish, and barracuda form impressive schools in deeper waters and channels. Dolphin species, particularly spinner dolphins, are commonly seen in the channels between islands. With water visibility often exceeding 20-30 meters during optimal conditions, Baa Atoll offers some of the Maldives' most rewarding marine encounters.