Broken Rock South Ari
Dive through a dramatic crack in the reef, adorned with vibrant gorgonian seafans, in this South Ari Atoll marine paradise.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Calmer seas, better visibility
Broken Rock South Ari
Best Time
Calmer seas, better visibility
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Dive through a dramatic crack in the reef, adorned with vibrant gorgonian seafans, in this South Ari Atoll marine paradise.
"A must-see in the atoll, the rock formations and canyon full of gorgonian seafans are gorgeous!"
🌊 Brace for Currents
Medium to strong currents are common. Embrace them for an exhilarating drift dive experience!
🐠 Macro Photography Ready
The crack is a haven for macro life. Bring your close-up lens for incredible shots!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Great Crack
Central rock formation
Dive through the iconic crack in the rock, teeming with gorgonian seafans and macro life. A truly unforgettable underwater passage.
Gorgonian Fan Gardens
Within the rock formations
Explore the breathtaking underwater canyons adorned with vibrant gorgonian seafans, creating a colorful and mesmerizing seascape.
Manta Ray Encounters
Near the dive site
Keep an eye out for majestic manta rays gracefully gliding through the waters, a common and awe-inspiring sight in this area.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Dive into South Ari's Wonders
Marine Protected Area Magic
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🌊 Brace for Currents
Medium to strong currents are common. Embrace them for an exhilarating drift dive experience!
🐠 Macro Photography Ready
The crack is a haven for macro life. Bring your close-up lens for incredible shots!
Maldives advice
🤿 Dive with Experts
Local dive centers offer guided tours, maximizing your chances of seeing the best of Broken Rock.
🦺 Safety First
Always dive with a certified guide who knows the site's conditions and currents.
I saw a whale shark 😝 South Ari Atoll. Here my tips
Tips
from all over the internet
🌊 Brace for Currents
Medium to strong currents are common. Embrace them for an exhilarating drift dive experience!
🐠 Macro Photography Ready
The crack is a haven for macro life. Bring your close-up lens for incredible shots!
🤿 Dive with Experts
Local dive centers offer guided tours, maximizing your chances of seeing the best of Broken Rock.
🦺 Safety First
Always dive with a certified guide who knows the site's conditions and currents.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Broken Rock is a highly praised dive site in South Ari Atoll, celebrated for its unique rock formations and vibrant marine life, especially the gorgonian seafans within its iconic crack. Divers often enjoy exhilarating drift dives, though strong currents can be a factor. While visually stunning, some visitors note the potential for strong currents and recommend experienced divers for the best experience.
"A beautiful dive site, often with medium or strong currents. The rock formations and the canyon full of gorgonian seafans are gorgeous and a must-see in the atoll"
Martin Splitt
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Broken Rock is located in the South Ari Atoll, Maldives. Access is typically via liveaboard dive boats or day trips from nearby resorts and guesthouses like Dhigurah. Many dive centers in the area offer excursions to this popular site.
You can reach Dhigurah by public ferry from Malé, a speedboat, or a domestic flight to Maamigili Airport followed by a short boat ride. Many dive operators are based here.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Broken Rock is within a Marine Protected Area. While no separate permit is usually required for divers, your dive center will handle any necessary fees as part of your excursion.
Costs vary depending on the dive operator and whether it's a single dive or part of a package. Expect to pay around $50-$100 USD for a guided dive trip.
Entry fees for the Marine Protected Area are usually incorporated into your dive package or resort fees. Confirm with your chosen operator.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Broken Rock is famous for its abundant marine life, including colorful reef fish, moray eels, sharks, and often manta rays. The gorgonian seafans within the crack are a major highlight.
Due to potential currents, Broken Rock is generally recommended for intermediate to advanced divers. Beginners should consult with their dive instructor.
Morning dives often offer calmer conditions and better visibility. Afternoon dives can sometimes present opportunities to see manta rays.
A full 3mm or 5mm wetsuit is recommended for warmth and protection. Ensure you have appropriate dive gear, including a dive computer.
While primarily a dive site, some operators may offer snorkeling excursions. However, the most spectacular features are underwater.
📸 📸 Photography
The dramatic crack, the vibrant gorgonian seafans, and any passing pelagics like manta rays offer fantastic photo opportunities.
Use a wide-angle lens for the overall reef structure and a macro lens for the smaller creatures. Adjust settings for low light conditions and potential blue water.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider resorts with dedicated kids' clubs or shallow house reefs suitable for younger swimmers. For older children interested in diving, Broken Rock can be an exciting introduction to the underwater world, provided they are certified and accompanied by experienced instructors who can manage the conditions.
🐠 Dive Enthusiasts
For those seeking encounters with larger marine animals, the proximity to manta ray cleaning stations and potential for other pelagic sightings makes this a prime location. It's highly recommended to book dives with reputable local operators who are knowledgeable about the site's conditions and best times for sightings.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Diving the Iconic Crack
Navigating the crack requires good buoyancy control, especially if currents are present. Experienced divers often describe the feeling of passing through this natural archway as exhilarating. The surrounding reef also teems with smaller reef fish, nudibranchs, and other macro subjects, making it a paradise for underwater photographers.
It's important to note that currents can be moderate to strong at Broken Rock, which can turn it into an exciting drift dive. Dive operators are adept at managing these conditions, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience. Always listen to your dive guide's briefing before entering the water.
Marine Life Encounters
Beyond mantas, divers might encounter various species of sharks, including reef sharks, and if you're incredibly lucky, a whale shark might pass by, though they are more commonly seen in other specific areas of South Ari Atoll. The reef itself is alive with schools of colorful fish, moray eels peeking from crevices, and a variety of invertebrates.
Responsible diving practices are crucial here to protect this thriving ecosystem. Avoid touching the coral or marine life, and maintain a respectful distance from all creatures, especially the larger ones like manta rays. This ensures the continued health and abundance of marine life for future visitors.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit