Bodu gaa

Pinnacle dive site near Dhonfanu where top reef starts from 11m and extends to 30m+. Houses a manta cleaning station. Connects to Turtle Reef.

The name Bodu Gaa translates to “Big Rock” in the local Dhivehi language, and this impressive pinnacle certainly lives up to its name. Rising from the sandy bottom at over 30 meters, the reef tops out at approximately 11 meters, making it accessible for divers of most experience levels. What makes this site particularly special is its role as a cleaning station during the manta season. We often wrap up our dives here with a short swim over to nearby Dhonfanu House Reef, affectionately known as “Turtle Reef” due to its resident turtle population.

Marine Life

One of the things we love about Bodu Gaa is the sheer variety of marine life you’ll encounter here. Glassfish, triggerfish, batfish and green sea turtles are a common sight. However, the reef and its surrounding area is best known for its Manta Rays and occasional whalesharks.

Manta Encounters

From May through November, this site really comes alive as a manta cleaning station. On good days, you can simply find a comfortable spot on the reef and watch these magnificent creatures circle overhead while cleaner fish do their work. We find late August and early September to be particularly productive for manta sightings here. And if you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of a passing whale shark which shows up here from time to time.

Dive Conditions

Conditions at Bodu Gaa are generally quite favourable. You can expect visibility anywhere between 15 and 30 meters, with typically mild currents and some moderate surge. The dive site is also beginner friendly and very refreshing on calmer days. Most dives here last around 50 minutes. Water temperatures stay pleasant year-round, hovering between 27-30°C.