SURROUNDED by outstanding coral reefs that have barely been visited by humans, the five-star Ayada Maldives resort is a paradise for snorkelers and divers alike.
“Ayada Maldives is in Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll in the south of the country which, because of its outstanding coral reefs, is gaining a reputation as one of the best areas of the country to go diving and snorkelling,” says general manager Zafer Agacan. Gaafu Dhaalu atoll is not only the largest atoll in the Maldives but also one of the least explored.ADVENTUROUS DIVESOn most dives you can expect to see white-tipped reef sharks (the most common shark in the Maldives and perfectly friendly) and less often black-tipped sharks, nurse sharks, grey sharks or lemon sharks. Rays, particularly sting rays and eagle rays, can be seen, and when diving around corals, it’s possible to spot various moray eels. The more aggressive animals, barracuda and triggerfish are the ones most likely to give a diver minor cause for concern. “Having said that, none of these are dangerous – diving in the Maldives is a safe activity,” director of marketing and communications, Katherine Anthony, tells TTN. “One of the most amazing experiences, although not guaranteed, is coming nose to nose with our favourite underwater neighbours: dolphins. They tend not to come too close to divers but every now and again they get curious and come to join the dive party to see what’s going on.” SURFING BREAKS “We have three of the top surfing breaks just minutes from our resort,” Anthony tells us. “The top rated one, called Bacon, is probably one of the best in the country with a big swell, waves of around six feet and a barrel section. The great joy of surfing around Ayada is not only the great waves but the fact that you’re unlikely to have to share your wave with any other surfers. The other surf sites near us are called Blue Ball, Five Islands, Love Charm and Tiger Stripe.” BIG GAME FISHINGBig game fishing can also be enjoyed at Ayada, which really is an adventure as some of the really big fish (sailfish, swordfish, wahoo) can fight back. Link to Deal Alert!