Sharks of the Central Atolls of the Maldives

Species you can spot on your diving liveaboard with Blue Force

Diving into the crystal-clear waters of the central atolls of the Maldives is an unforgettable experience. You’ll be surrounded by colorful coral reefs and vibrant marine life—and you’ll also have the incredible opportunity to spend a full week diving alongside a fascinating variety of sharks.
On board Blue Force Fleet liveaboards, encounters with these majestic creatures are frequent, thrilling… and possible all year round.

Here are the most common species—and a few surprises—you might come across during your adventure:

1. Whitetip Reef Shark (Triaenodon obesus)

One of the most common shark species in the central atolls. Easily recognized by their slender body and the distinctive white tip on the dorsal and tail fins. These shy sharks are often seen resting in reef crevices during the day. A classic presence in the channels that cross the atolls and around thilas (underwater formations similar to coral pinnacles or mountains, typical of the Maldives).

2. Blacktip Reef Shark (Carcharhinus melanopterus)

Active and constantly on the move, these sharks are often seen in shallow waters, along the shoreline of some islands we visit, or patrolling reef slopes. Identified by the black tips on their fins, they are curious but completely harmless toward divers.

3. Grey Reef Shark (Carcharhinus amblyrhynchos)

One of the most exciting species to observe during dives in the channels (kandus). Larger than other reef sharks, they are typically seen swimming against the current in search of food. Large groups are frequently spotted in some dive sites.

4. Nurse Shark (Nebrius ferrugineus)

One of the highlights of the cruise. There’s one dive site particularly famous for hosting dozens of nurse sharks—an absolutely stunning and unforgettable spectacle. With a calm temperament and robust appearance, they are often seen resting under overhangs or inside caves. They tolerate close encounters well and sometimes show up at night around the boat or during night dives. Truly a highlight of the trip.

5. Whale Shark (Rhincodon typus)

The largest fish in the ocean occasionally makes an appearance during our cruises in the central atolls, especially near outer reefs. Ocean currents and plankton-rich waters support their presence year-round. Although they’re more commonly seen in southern Maldives or Baa Atoll, sightings in the central region are also possible—sometimes even at night near the boat. A magical, once-in-a-lifetime encounter.

6. Other Pelagic Sharks (occasional sightings)

In addition to the most common species, other less frequently seen but equally spectacular sharks may also make an appearance:

• Hammerhead Shark (Sphyrna spp.): occasionally seen at dawn or in deeper dives. Their unmistakable silhouette is always a gift for divers.
• Great Hammerhead / Oceanic Hammerhead (Sphyrna mokarran): majestic and elusive, their rare encounters are truly breathtaking.
• Guitar Shark (Rhynchobatus spp.): technically a ray, but with a shark-like appearance. Usually spotted on sandy bottoms.
• Tiger Shark (Galeocerdo cuvier): known as the king of sharks in the Maldives. Massive, imposing, and increasingly sighted in specific areas.
• Bull Shark (Carcharhinus leucas): rare but remarkable. Occasional sightings in select dive spots.
• Spinner Shark (Carcharhinus brevipinna): fast, graceful, and often seen in small groups. Sightings are becoming more frequent.

Where and when to see them?

Channels (kandus) and current-swept thilas are the key areas to observe sharks in action. Our itineraries aboard the Maldives Blue Force One and Maldives Blue Force 3 are designed to maximize shark encounters.
And the best part: shark sightings are possible all year round.

A safe and unforgettable experience

Our dive guides know each hotspot and the best conditions for each species. We always promote responsible diving practices that ensure diver safety and protect marine life.
Keep in mind: we are guests in their natural habitat, and wild animals must always be approached with respect, admiration, caution, and care.

Are you ready to dive with sharks in their natural environment?
With Blue Force Fleet, every dive can become a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Come and discover the magic of shark diving in the Maldives with us!