Dhonfanu Thila

Pinnacle between Dharavandhoo/Anga Faru/Dhonfanu; top 8m, down to 30m. Swimthrough at 18-30m.

A pinnacle located between Dharavandhoo, Anga Faru and Dhonfanu. Top reef is around 8 meters, extending down to 30 meters. Numerous varieties of fish can be seen here, from Napoleon Wrasses to Grey Reef Sharks and Eagle Rays. The dive site features a neat swimthrough on its east side where divers can enter at around 30 meters and exit at 18 meters. External sources also note the reef has an oval shape with a deep canyon reaching 25 meters, and divers may encounter barracudas and large schools of jacks in the surrounding waters.

The Dive

This oval-shaped pinnacle rises from the seabed with its top reef starting at around 7-8 meters and extending down to 30 meters. The highlight of Dhonfanu Thila is undoubtedly its spectacular swimthrough on the east side. Divers enter through a dramatic opening at around 30 meters and ascend through a narrow passage, emerging at 18 meters into a sheltered interior pool where currents are noticeably calmer. This unique topography creates an unforgettable experience as you transition from the exposed outer reef into the protected heart of the pinnacle. On the opposite side, a deep canyon descends to 25 meters, adding another dimension to explore. The site features impressive overhangs at 27 meters on the east side and 20 meters on the north side, providing shelter for resting marine life and stunning photo opportunities.

Marine Life

Dhonfanu Thila rewards divers with diverse marine encounters. Napoleon Wrasses are a signature species here, often approaching curious divers with their characteristic confidence. Grey Reef Sharks patrol the outer edges of the pinnacle, while elegant Eagle Rays glide through the blue waters. The site attracts large schools of Big-eyed Jacks and Barracudas that circle around the pinnacle. During the southwest monsoon season from May to November, Manta Rays may visit the cleaning station, offering magical encounters. Sea turtles are frequently spotted resting in the protective overhangs. Dense schools of fusiliers, snappers, and anthias add vibrant color to every dive, creating a thriving ecosystem that makes this site a must-visit destination in Baa Atoll.

Conditions

Visibility at Dhonfanu Thila typically ranges from 15 to 35 meters, offering excellent conditions for photography. Currents are variable around the pinnacle with moderate flow on the exposed outer edges, but the interior pool accessed through the swimthrough provides noticeably calmer conditions. Water temperatures range from 28-30°C depending on the season. Due to the depth profile reaching 30 meters and the technical nature of the swimthrough, Advanced Open Water certification is recommended. The best time to visit is from November to April for optimal visibility, while May to November offers the chance to encounter Manta Rays at the cleaning station during the southwest monsoon.