Kandooma Thila | Maafushi

Kandooma Thila is a submerged reef located approximately 5 kilometers southwest of Maafushi-island_maafushi" class="underline">Maafushi Island in the Maldives.

This dive site is known for its significant coral formations and diverse marine life.

Visual Characteristics

The thila is a coral pinnacle that rises from the seabed, reaching a maximum depth of approximately 30 meters. The coral structures are predominantly hard corals, including table corals and branching corals, with areas of soft corals. The reef slopes gently on its western side and drops off more steeply on its eastern side. Visibility typically ranges from 15 to 30 meters, depending on current conditions. The water color is a clear turquoise.

Location & Access Logistics

Kandooma Thila is situated 5 kilometers southwest of Maafushi Island. Access is exclusively by boat. Speedboat transfers from Maafushi Island take approximately 10-15 minutes. Several local tour operators on Maafushi offer day trips and diving excursions to Kandooma Thila. There is no direct road access or parking as it is a marine location.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Kandooma Thila is a natural geological formation, classified as a thila, which is a Maldivian term for a submerged coral island or pinnacle. These formations are the result of coral growth over thousands of years on submerged seamounts. The site's ecological significance lies in its role as a habitat and feeding ground for a wide array of marine species.

Key Highlights & Activities

Scuba diving is the primary activity at Kandooma Thila. The site is known for its strong currents, making it suitable for drift diving. Divers can observe schools of fish, including fusiliers, snappers, and barracudas. Grey reef sharks, white-tip reef sharks, and occasionally manta rays are sighted. Snorkeling is possible in shallower sections, particularly during slack tide.

Infrastructure & Amenities

There are no permanent infrastructure or amenities directly at Kandooma Thila as it is a submerged reef. Boats providing access typically have onboard facilities. Cell phone signal is generally available from the boat. Food and beverage services are provided by the tour operators on their vessels.

Best Time to Visit

The best time for diving at Kandooma Thila is during the dry season, from December to April, when visibility is generally higher and weather conditions are more stable. Currents can be strong, so divers should be experienced. The best time of day for photography is mid-morning to early afternoon when sunlight penetrates the water effectively. High tide and low tide can influence current strength.

Facts & Legends

Kandooma Thila is part of the South Malé Atoll, an area renowned for its rich marine biodiversity. A specific tip for divers is to be aware of the outgoing currents on the eastern side, which can carry divers towards deeper water.

Nearby Landmarks

• Guraidhoo Island (2.5km Northeast)
• Cocoa Island (3.0km West)
• Biyadhoo Island (4.0km Southwest)
• Fihalhohi Island (4.5km Northwest)