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Banana Reef: A Diver's Paradise

Explore the underwater wonders of Banana Reef, one of the Maldives' first and most famous dive sites, teeming with vibrant marine life and stunning coral formations.

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Banana Reef, located in the North Malé Atoll, is one of the Maldives' most iconic and first internationally recognized dive sites. Shaped like a banana, this protected marine area boasts vibrant coral reefs, dramatic cliffs, overhangs, caves, and diverse marine life, making it a must-visit destination for divers and snorkelers of all levels.

A brief summary to Banana Reef

  • 6GMM+9F8, Malé, MV

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning (around 9:00 AM) to avoid the heat and crowds.
  • Check weather and sea conditions before planning your dive or snorkeling trip.
  • Hire a local guide who knows the reef well for a better and safer experience.
  • Respect marine life and their habitat; avoid touching or disturbing corals and fish.
  • November to April is the best time to visit for clear water and abundant marine life.
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Getting There

  • Boat

    Banana Reef is accessible by boat from Malé and nearby resort islands in North Malé Atoll. Many resorts offer organized dive and snorkeling excursions to the reef. The boat trip from Malé takes approximately 20-30 minutes. Speedboat charters are also available. Expect to pay around MVR 70 for a taxi from any point in Male to the harbor. From the harbor, negotiate a round trip fee with a boat operator. Prices vary widely and are dependent on the size of the boat, but expect to pay upwards of $200 USD.

  • Public Transportation

    From Velana International Airport, take the airport ferry to Malé. The ferry terminal is located near the airport exit. Ferries operate frequently, and the journey costs approximately MVR 40 per person. Once in Malé, you can hire a speedboat from the Malé Commercial Harbour to Banana Reef. Negotiate the price with the boat operator. Alternatively, take a taxi from the airport to the harbor for MVR 70.

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Discover more about Banana Reef

Banana Reef is a world-renowned diving location in the Maldives, celebrated for its stunning underwater beauty and ecological significance. Discovered in the 1970s, it quickly became a favorite among divers due to its unique banana-like shape and diverse underwater landscapes. The reef's topography features dramatic cliffs, caves, overhangs, and vibrant coral formations, creating varied diving conditions suitable for both beginners and experienced divers. The clear waters offer excellent visibility, often reaching over 30 meters, allowing divers to fully appreciate the rich marine life. Divers can explore shallow caves, swim-throughs, and steep drop-offs, each teeming with a variety of marine species. Banana Reef is home to a diverse array of marine life, including colorful fish, sharks, barracudas, moray eels, and various crustaceans. The coral gardens are adorned with soft corals, anemones, and gorgonians, providing habitat for thousands of tiny fish. Lucky divers might spot eagle rays, turtles, and even the elusive Napoleon wrasse. Beyond diving, Banana Reef is also ideal for snorkeling, with shallow waters offering stunning underwater views. The reef's protected status ensures its preservation, allowing visitors to experience its unspoiled beauty and contribute to marine conservation efforts.

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