Dhonfanu Kuda Gaa

Pinnacle connected to Dhonfanu Reef; top at 15m, descending to 32m sand bed. Active Manta cleaning station.

One of the pinnacles connected to Dhonfanu Reef, this dive site features a top reef starting at around 15 meters depth, extending down to a sandy bed at 32-33 meters. The entire top reef is alive with diverse coral varieties and abundant fish life. Keen-eyed divers can spot Leaf Scorpionfish and Ribbon Eels among the coral formations. During the South-West Monsoon, the entire top reef transforms into an active Manta cleaning station. Divers should maintain a respectful distance and avoid positioning themselves directly above cleaning mantas. Green sea turtles are often found resting in various spots throughout the dive site

The Dive

Dhonfanu Kuda Gaa is one of the pinnacles that form part of the Dhonfanu Reef system in Baa Atoll. The top reef begins at around 15 meters and slopes down to a sandy bottom at 32-33 meters. The entire pinnacle is blanketed in living coral, creating a vibrant underwater landscape with diverse coral varieties. Visibility typically ranges from 15 to 30 meters, with mild currents and moderate surge making this an accessible dive despite its depth. The site features beautiful coral formations and occasional overhangs that provide shelter for various marine creatures.

Marine Life

This site rewards patient divers with excellent macro life encounters. With a keen eye, you can spot Leaf Scorpionfish expertly camouflaged among the coral formations. Green sea turtles are regularly found resting at various spots throughout the dive site. The highlight of Dhonfanu Kuda Gaa is its transformation into an active Manta cleaning station during the South-West Monsoon. When mantas are present at the cleaning station, divers should maintain a respectful distance and avoid positioning themselves directly above the cleaning mantas to ensure these gentle giants remain undisturbed.

Conditions

This site experiences mild currents with moderate surge, making it manageable for experienced divers. Visibility ranges from 15 to 30 meters, with the clearest conditions typically occurring between November and April. Water temperatures vary from 28 – 30 °C. For manta encounters, plan your visit during the South-West Monsoon season when the cleaning station becomes active..