| MALDIVES
Located Southwest of India straddling the equator, the Maldives are in the
Indian Ocean. The Republic of the Maldives comprises of 1190 islands,
spread over 26 coral atolls. Not only does it consist of the most
beautiful tropical islands, but 99% of the Republic is covered by ocean.
Only about 200 islands are inhabited, the rest includes about 90 tourist
resorts and uninhabited islands. The origin of the Maldivian people is
shrouded in mystery. It has long been a melting pot for African, Arab
and South East Asian mariners.
Male, the capital and seat of the government and the centre of trade,
commerce, business, health and education is located in the middle of the
atoll chain. It is a small island buzzing with activity. The
country remains one of the smallest independent nations in Asia.
Perhaps nowhere in the world is the marine life
as rich. Drift over channels, pinnacles, and drop-offs. Valleys of
soft corals and gardens of hard coral, all clouded with fish. From all
the tropicals, to pelagic snappers, morays, mantas, sharks, and even whale
sharks. The weather is generally mild, making this a perfect
year-round dive destination. Whale shark and manta sightings are frequent
from July through November when the rich plankton blooms.
The diving is done from a "dhoni" that accompanies the live-aboard.
The dhoni carries the compressor, tanks, and even all dive gear.
Making for greater comport and convenience to the divers and NO compressor
noise on the live-aboard.
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