Vaavu Atoll

Untouched Beauty & Exceptional Marine Life - Maldives' Best Kept Secret

Discover Vaavu Atoll

Vaavu Atoll, officially known as Felidhu Atoll, stands as one of the most unspoiled and naturally beautiful atolls in the Maldives archipelago. Comprising 19 islands (only 5 inhabited), this atoll offers visitors an authentic Maldivian experience with its pristine beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and traditional island life.

Renowned among divers worldwide, Vaavu Atoll boasts some of the most spectacular dive sites in the Maldives, including the legendary Fotteyo Kandu channel and the famous Alimatha Jetty night dive where nurse sharks and stingrays gather in large numbers.

Atoll Highlights

  • Location: Central Maldives
  • Capital Island: Felidhoo
  • Total Islands: 19 (5 inhabited)
  • Famous For: World-class diving, pristine nature
  • Transfer Options: Speedboat (45-90 min) or seaplane

Exclusive Resorts in Vaavu Atoll

Alimatha Aquatic Resort

Alimatha Aquatic Resort

Pioneering eco-resort known for its spectacular house reef and famous night dives with nurse sharks.

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Dhiggaru Island Lodge

Dhiggaru Island Lodge

Authentic Maldivian guesthouse offering cultural experiences and access to pristine dive sites.

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Vaavu Atoll Resort

Vaavu Atoll Resort

Luxurious eco-resort with direct access to Fotteyo Kandu, one of Maldives' best dive sites.

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World-Class Diving in Vaavu Atoll

Fotteyo Kandu dive site

Fotteyo Kandu

Widely regarded as the best channel dive in Maldives, featuring dramatic overhangs, caves, and abundant pelagic life including gray reef sharks, eagle rays, and large schools of fish.

Depth: 10-40m | Level: Advanced | Current: Strong

Alimatha Jetty night dive

Alimatha Jetty

Iconic night dive where dozens of nurse sharks and stingrays gather to feed under the jetty lights, offering one of the most unique diving experiences in the Maldives.

Depth: 5-15m | Level: All levels | Visibility: Excellent

Unforgettable Experiences in Vaavu Atoll

Island hopping in Vaavu

Island Hopping

Visit traditional Maldivian fishing villages and uninhabited islands to experience authentic local culture and pristine beaches.

Snorkeling in Vaavu

Snorkeling Safaris

Explore vibrant coral gardens and encounter tropical fish, turtles, and reef sharks in crystal-clear waters.

Sunset cruise in Vaavu

Sunset Dolphin Cruises

Witness playful spinner dolphins at sunset while enjoying breathtaking views of the Maldivian horizon.

Traveling to Vaavu Atoll

Transportation Options

Vaavu Atoll is conveniently accessible from Velana International Airport (MLE) via:

  • Speedboat Transfer: The most common option (45-90 minutes depending on your resort location)
  • Seaplane Transfer: Available for more distant resorts (25-40 minute scenic flight)
  • Public Ferry: Budget option to inhabited islands (schedule varies)

Most resorts arrange private transfers, while guesthouses typically use scheduled speedboat services.

Seaplane transfer over Vaavu Atoll

Vaavu Atoll Island Highlights

Seaplane transfer over Vaavu Atoll

Vaavu Atoll's Pristine Islands

Ideal Time to Experience Vaavu Atoll

The optimal time to visit Vaavu Atoll is during the dry northeast monsoon season from December to April, when conditions are perfect for diving and water activities:

For underwater photographers, January-March offers the clearest waters and best marine life encounters.

Explore Vaavu Atoll's Islands

Visitor Experiences

Share Your Vaavu Experience

Sarah Johnson
★★★★★ March 15, 2023

Vaavu Atoll exceeded all our expectations! The diving at Fotteyo Kandu was absolutely breathtaking - we saw multiple gray reef sharks, a school of eagle rays, and the healthiest coral formations we've ever encountered. Our resort (Alimatha Aquatic) was perfect for divers with its house reef and excellent dive center.

David Müller
★★★★☆ January 8, 2023

The night dive at Alimatha Jetty was the highlight of our Maldives trip - swimming with dozens of nurse sharks and stingrays under the lights was an unforgettable experience. Vaavu offers a more authentic Maldivian experience compared to the more developed atolls.