17 - 23 August 2025
📍Hanifaru Bay, Baa Atoll, Maldives
🤿 Get scuba certified
👫 Maximum 9 participants
🛥️ Daily dives
🛏️ See all inclusions here
💰 Starting from 2.490 CHF
The Magic of Hanifaru Bay
If there’s one experience to have at least once in a lifetime, it’s swimming among the manta rays of Hanifaru Bay. This small bay, located in Baa Atoll and protected as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, is one of the most spectacular places in the world to observe these gentle giants feeding in groups.
From May to November, strong lunar tides push massive amounts of plankton into this funnel-shaped bay, turning it into a true buffet that attracts dozens, sometimes hundreds, of manta rays. The largest gatherings occur around the full and new moons, with over 140 mantas spotted in a single session in recent years. We’ll be there during the new moon week, from August 17 to 23, right in the heart of the manta season.
Reef mantas can reach up to 4 meters in wingspan, and their graceful, silent movements are mesmerizing. They often approach snorkelers closely, curious and calm. No tanks or deep dives needed: just enter the water and let yourself be enveloped by their dance.
The period we’ve chosen offers water temperatures around 29°C, good visibility, and, with a bit of luck, the chance to spot whale sharks as well.
Of course, nature can’t be scheduled, but we’re playing our cards right by choosing the best week and location for an unforgettable experience!
PS: No, mantas don’t have a sting and they are 100% harmless to humans
What
A journey designed for those dreaming of diving into the most spectacular waters of the Maldives. During the week, you’ll have the chance to:
✅ Earn your Open Water or Advanced Open Water certification with certified instructors, whether you’re starting out or looking to advance your diving journey.
✅ Experience breathtaking dives if you’re already certified, exploring coral reefs, wrecks, and renowned dive sites.
✅ Witness the Manta Madness, a unique phenomenon at Hanifaru Bay, where dozens of manta rays gather, creating a surreal spectacle.
✅ Swim among corals, turtles, sharks, and dolphins, fully embracing the magic of the ocean.
Whether you’re aiming to get certified, enhance your skills, or simply enjoy a dream diving experience, this retreat is perfect for you!
Where
Dharavandhoo Island, Maldives.
A local island located in Baa Atoll, recognized globally for its incredible marine biodiversity and designated as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. Dharavandhoo serves as the perfect base to explore Hanifaru Bay, one of the world’s best spots to witness large manta ray aggregations.
Expect vibrant coral reefs, crystal-clear waters, and the chance to experience an authentic Maldivian adventure without spending a fortune at a typical resort.
When
August 17–23, 2025
Join us for 7 days of diving and adventure in the Maldives. August is the best month to witness the Manta Madness at Hanifaru Bay, offering high plankton concentrations that attract an incredible number of manta rays, along with optimal visibility and marine activity. And guess who else loves feasting on plankton? The majestic whale shark! If we are lucky we might see it in the water as well.
Who
This trip is for a select group of diving and ocean enthusiasts. A maximum of 9 participants, a small group to limit crowds in the water and make the most of every moment. All young people with the same desire to explore and have fun underwater.
Traveling with friends? Perfect! Coming with your partner? A magical experience to share! Traveling solo? You’ll quickly find new friends who share your passion!
No matter your diving experience level: whether you’re looking to get certified or just dive into incredible waters, this is the perfect opportunity. If you are an ocean lover you are most welcome!
Highlights of the trip
Accommodation
Experience true tropical island life at the Blue World Dharavandhoo guesthouse, a welcoming and modern facility perfect for relaxing between dives. (Note: This is NOT a resort, but a guesthouse on a local island.)
Blue World boasts a strategic location: just steps from the beach and the harbor, our departure point for excursions to Hanifaru Bay and the wonders of Baa Atoll. The dive center accompanying us on our adventure is the pride of Blue World—a PADI 5-star center we fully trust.
The hotel features an on-site restaurant, ensuring tasty and abundant meals between dives. Common areas are spacious and designed for relaxation: a terrace perfect for sunset views, a garden with sand and tropical plants, and a lounge to socialize with the group after a day in the water.
We’ll also have free bicycles available to explore the island.
Rooms are very spacious, akin to small apartments, and equipped with all necessary comforts, including air conditioning, private bathrooms with hot showers, Wi-Fi, and a patio overlooking the garden. Accommodation options include twin and double rooms.
Program
Day One – Sunday, 17 August
Arrive in Malé, where a member of our team will welcome you and assist with your domestic flight to Dharavandhoo, which we will take care of. It’s a short 30-minute flight offering stunning aerial views of the atolls. Upon landing, a quick ride on a buggy will take you to the Blue World guesthouse. After a refreshing welcome drink, you’ll have time to settle into your room.
Join the group for a welcome dinner organized by the hotel—a perfect opportunity to start getting to know each other!
Day Two – Monday, 18 August
The adventure officially begins! After breakfast, those pursuing the Open Water certification will start with a dry session followed by initial water exercises.
Certified divers (whether aiming for the Advanced certification or simply enjoying recreational dives) will embark on their first two dives, exploring a world filled with curious turtles, shy moray eels, and clownfish playing among the anemones.
Lunch will be served at the hotel, and in the afternoon, we’ll head out by boat in search of dolphins. With a bit of luck, we’ll witness them playing in the waves at sunset. The day concludes with a barefoot beach dinner, hearts already full.
Day Three – Tuesday, 19 August
Today is a true deep dive—literally! New divers will descend up to 12 meters for the first time, possibly encountering spotted rays or vibrant mantis shrimp. Certified divers will enjoy equally spectacular dives, exploring underwater canyons, small caves, and coral gardens teeming with life.
In the afternoon, we prepare for one of the most anticipated moments of the trip: Hanifaru Bay. We’ll go snorkeling in this legendary bay, where dozens of manta rays gather. We’ll float silently with them, mesmerized by this breathtaking natural spectacle.
The evening? A Maldivian barbecue under the stars, accompanied by the sound of waves and group laughter.
Day Four – Wednesday, 20 August
Our desire to explore the depths remains strong. Trainee divers will venture even deeper today, as will the certified ones, to admire parrotfish, giant lobsters, and reef sharks.
In the late afternoon, energy permitting, we’ll gather for a beach clean-up on the island—a simple yet meaningful way to care for this paradise. Then, eyes on the sunset as we watch the sun dip into the sea—another successful day!
Day Five – Thursday, 21 August
Diving continues for everyone. The reef holds no more secrets for our new divers, who will celebrate earning their first certification by day’s end—well done!
Certified divers will continue their underwater adventure, encountering colorful nudibranchs, Napoleon wrasse, and perhaps a spotted eagle ray gliding through the blue.
Day Six – Friday, 22 August
This morning, we give our tanks a break and return to the enchantment of Hanifaru Bay. Ready to dive among the mantas and perform our signature Bonny&Gava ritual dance (shhh, it’s a secret) in hopes of spotting a whale shark!
After lunch, we’ll head to a sandbank or deserted island to relax amidst turquoise waters and pristine white sand—a postcard-perfect afternoon to imprint all this beauty in our minds.
Day Seven – Saturday, 23 August
Our final tropical breakfast together before the flight back to Malé. Each of us will go our separate ways, but we’ll all carry unforgettable encounters in our hearts—with mantas, dolphins, turtles… and new friends we’ll now call family.
See you underwater, in another corner of the world. 💙
Program Adjustments
Please consider this program as a starting point, which we’ll adapt based on weather and sea conditions. We reserve the right to modify it to ensure the best experience for everyone, prioritizing safety. Specifically, the Hanifaru Bay excursion requires flexibility, as its success depends on tides, currents, and especially manta ray presence. Our guides will stay in constant contact with rangers monitoring sightings and will do their utmost to take us at the optimal time.
Meet your group leader: Anna
Advanced Scubadiver
Anna has been part of the Bonny&Gava team for over a year and her passion and expertise about group trips has helped us expand our expeditions to offer you more destinations and more unforgettable underwater animal encounters.
After participating in more than 10 group trips, logging over 75 dives and leading the last Dolphin Dream Expedition in Egypt, she will now lead your group through one of the most magical marine phenomena in the Maldives, and she’ll be by your side as you earn your first scuba diving certification (or advance further into the diving world). Fun fact: this will be her ninth trip to this amazing country!
Her love for the underwater world is second to none and her enthusiasm will make this trip even more thrilling. You can check her Instagram here.
A team of expert local guides will be helping Anna in the water to ensure the highest safety standards so you can enjoy your dives making the most of your time in the Maldives.
What's included?
What's included
- Accommodation: 6 nights in a local guesthouse, shared room with private bathroom.
- Half Board: Breakfast and lunch included, along with a welcome dinner and a Maldivian barbecue night.
- Round-trip transfers from Malé to Dharavandhoo by plane. A speedboat option is available but not recommended.
- Daily scuba dives, choosing one of the following options:
- Open Water certification, for beginners.
- 9 Fun Dives, for certified divers wanting to explore Baa Atoll’s reefs and marine life.
- Advanced Open Water certification, if you are already OW certified and wish to continue your training you can do so at an additional cost of 235 CHF.
All packages include tanks, weights, dive guides, boat costs, equipment transport, cleaning, and storage.
- Educational materials and e-learning sessions for those pursuing OW or AOW certifications.
- Equipment (mask, wetsuit, fins, socks, weight belt, dive computer, regulators, and BCD) provided throughout the course duration for OW and AOW* students. We encourage you to bring your own gear if available. We highly recommend purchasing your own mask, snorkel, fins, and socks.
- Two excursions to Hanifaru Bay to swim with manta rays and whale sharks.
- A dolphin cruise, to sail alongside dolphins.
- An excursion to a deserted island or sandbank, a typical Maldivian sandbar.
- Beach Clean-Up: A small gesture with a tangible impact. We thank the ocean by cleaning a local beach of plastic.
- Tour leader coordination from the Bonny & Gava team throughout the trip.
- Green Tax (tourist tax).
What's not included
- Some meals: We’ve intentionally left out certain dinners to offer variety and explore local restaurants together. FYI, the average dinner cost ranges between $10 and $15 per person.
- Advanced Open Water course: if you are already OW certified and want to continue your diving journey, you can do so at an additional cost of 235 CHF.
- Extra activities: Such as additional dives or sunset fishing, bookable separately at an extra cost.
- International flights: We’ll take care of you from the moment you land in Malé (MLE airport). Domestic flights (Malé to Dharavandhoo and back) are included, but travel from your home to Malé is not. We’re happy to assist with arrangements if needed.
- Diving insurance: Mandatory for this trip. If you don’t have one, we recommend DAN or DiveAssure, costing approximately €50–70 and covering a full year.
- Coordination by a Bonny & Gava tour leader for the entire duration of the trip
- Equipment rental (mask, wetsuit, fins, socks, weight belt, dive computer, regulators, and BCD) for those opting for the fun diving package. This is to avoid unnecessary costs for those who already own their own equipment. The local cost is $10 per day for the complete set or $5 per item (excluding taxes). *Note: The AOW course lasts 2 or 3 days, so equipment rental is excluded for the last day(s) of diving for the same reason.
- Anything not explicitly included.
Dive Deeper, Leave No Trace
Our mission is simple: inspire people to embrace adventure, explore the underwater world, and protect it for generations to come. The ocean is our playground, and we’re committed to keeping it as healthy and awe-inspiring as it is today.
That’s why this trip is all about giving back to the ocean and ensuring we leave it better than we found it. During our journey, we’ll organize a beach cleanup to collect plastic that has washed ashore, stopping it from re-entering the ocean and helping restore the beauty of the coastline.
We’ll also stay on a local island, supporting community-based tourism instead of luxury resorts. By contributing directly to the local economy, we’re helping to create financial stability for the residents. This, in turn, empowers them to prioritize environmental care, reducing waste and fostering a sustainable way of life.
And perhaps most importantly, the unforgettable memories you create on this trip will inspire both you and those around you to take small but meaningful actions to protect our oceans. Together, we’ll keep the underwater world as awesome as it deserves to be.
The best week of the year
The best location in the world: Hanifaru Bay is the best location in the world to see large aggregations of mantas
The best time of the year: late august/beginning of september are the absolute peak of manta season
The best lunar cycle: new moon and full moon are the best times of the month for plankton and therefore manta activity.
Pricing
CHF 2499
circa 2699€
Accommodation: Double room with a double bed or twin beds and a private bathroom.
We will pair participants in rooms based on gender, age, and interests to ensure the best possible experience for everyone!
Single occupancy available upon request.
This expedition will open for registration soon, so be sure to join the waiting list here so you don’t miss the announcement. If you’re really looking forward to it, email us at retreats@bonnyandgava.com 😎
Requisiti
Swimming and Good Health
No freediving or scuba certifications are required to participate, but a high level of swimming ability and comfort in open water is essential to enjoy the experiences. Being in good health is also necessary.
Insurance
Dive insurance is mandatory for this trip; we recommend DAN or DiveAssure. Travel insurance is not mandatory but is recommended.
Gear
You don’t need to bring any gear—everything can be rented on site. Equipment rental is free during the courses, and if you’re not taking a course, it’s available for $10/day for the full set.
That said, we highly encourage you to bring your own equipment if you have it. Tanks and weights will be provided on-site.
Language and Age Requirement
Participants must be at least 18 years old and have a basic understanding of English—not only to follow the instructions from our dive guides, but also to ensure we can all enjoy the experience together without leaving anyone out.Per partecipare è necessario avere almeno 18 anni e una conoscenza base della lingua inglese, in modo da comprendere tutte le indicazioni delle guide subacquee e da poterci divertire tutti insieme senza escludere nessuno.
Terms & Conditions
Deposit
To secure your spot on this retreat you will have to agree to our T&Cs and pay a non-refundable deposit of CHF 200.
Book your spot HERE
Payment
Once the trip is confirmed (having reached the minimum number of participants), we will send you an invoice for the remaining amount to be paid via bank transfer.
Cancellation
Once the deposit has been made, if you cancel within 90 days before departure, you will not be charged any additional fees, although we will retain the deposit.
If the cancellation occurs after 90 days before departure, unfortunately, as we are a very small business, we will not be able to refund you. If we manage to find someone else to take your spot in time, we may be able to refund the full amount (excluding the deposit and any bank fees).
Very important note for everyone: this trip, like others, is subject to a minimum number of participants. Please refrain from purchasing flights or making other non-refundable expenses to avoid unnecessary costs. Contact us to find out if the trip is confirmed.
F.A.Q.
What Is The Starting Time Of The Trip?
The official beginning of the Retreat will be in the afternoon of August 17, 2025; the exact time will depend on participants’ arrivals.
What Is The Ending Time Of The Trip?
The retreat will conclude after breakfast on August 23, 2025. We will organize the return to Malé in accordance with your international return flight.
How Do You Get to Dharavandhoo?
You only need to purchase an international flight from your country to Malé Airport, the capital of the Maldives. Once you arrive there, a member of our team will welcome you and assist you in boarding the flight to Dharavandhoo. While the international flight is not included in the package price (for obvious reasons), the transfer from Malé to Dharavandhoo (and back) is included and will be managed by our team. Please email us for more information and to check the compatibility of the flights you wish to purchase with the internal flight schedules; we will be happy to help you.
Do I Need To Be Scuba Certified?
No, that’s one of the goals of the trip: to allow you to obtain the Open Water certification while exploring the wonderful Maldivian seabeds! If you wish to join the recreational diving package (which does not include obtaining any certification), you must already have at least the Open Water certification or equivalent. The same applies, of course, to join the package that allows you to obtain the Advanced Open Water certification.
How Does Being On A Local Island Affect Me?
The Maldives is a Muslim country, which implies a few things:
1. Alcohol is prohibited.
2. There are some rules regarding clothing. If you decide to explore the island, you must cover yourself by wearing a t-shirt and shorts. However, there’s no need to worry if you’re going to the bikini beach or diving from our boat. In the hotel, you’re free to wear what you want, as long as bikinis/chest are covered.
Are There Extra Activities Available?
We’ve structured a rich program, including the best that the Baa Atoll has to offer. However, if you feel you have more energy and want to participate in other excursions (like a fishing session, a sunset cruise, or snorkeling), it’s possible at an additional cost. Similarly, if your return flight schedule allows, you can add more dives on Friday, August 22. Email us for more information!
Is a Visa Required to Enter the Maldives?
Yes, but a 30-day tourist visa is issued free of charge upon arrival. You’ll need a passport valid for at least 6 months, sufficient funds to cover your stay, a return flight booking, and to have completed the IMUGA travel declaration form online. A yellow fever vaccination certificate may also be required, depending on your previous travels.
In any case, please verify personally: the responsibility for checking requirements, which may vary based on citizenship and residence, and obtaining the visa rests with the guest. We invite you to consult https://www.immigration.gov.mv/tourist-visa/ and the websites of your country’s authorities.
Is There Wi-Fi At The Hotel?
Yes, and it should be sufficient for everyone. If you want a more stable connection or need to be reachable outside the hotel, you can purchase an eSIM online—if your phone supports it—or a physical SIM card at Malé airport (as of March 2025, it cost $40 or €40 for 20GB).
Should I Bring Extra Cash?
It’s advisable to bring cash for the dinners not included and for any souvenirs, snacks, drinks, and extra activities. Cards are often accepted, sometimes with a small fee, but it’s better to be safe. Make sure to have US dollars or Maldivian rufiyaa. If you don’t have either currency, you’ll find exchange offices at Malé airport offering fair rates.
What Are The Sleeping Options?
You can have a double room with a double bed or two single beds, to share with a friend or partner traveling with you, or with another participant.
Single occupancy is also available at an additional cost; please email us to check availability.
What If I'm Traveling Alone?
Then this is a great opportunity! Most of our guests are young (<40 years old) solo travelers looking to meet others who share their passion for the sea. We also have couples who want to have fun with like-minded people. Overall, we’ve always had FANTASTIC groups, and EVERYONE has formed incredible friendships during our group trips.
What If I'm Vegan or Have Allergies?
If you have dietary requests or any kind of intolerances, let us know in advance so we can provide meals suited to your needs.
If you want to bring your own suitable food, you’re more than welcome.
For the dinners not included, you’ll have no trouble finding various options at the island’s restaurants.
Which Meals And Drinks Are Included?
Half board is provided, which includes breakfast and lunch, plus water, American coffee, and tea. Other beverages (soft drinks, smoothies, or fresh coconuts) are extra. Alcohol is prohibited in Muslim countries.
The package also includes a welcome dinner and a Maldivian barbecue evening, but not the other dinners. This is intentional, to offer more variety and explore local restaurants together. FYI, the average price of a dinner ranges between $10 and $15 per person.
What's The Weather Like In The Maldives In August?
In general, the Maldivian climate is a tropical monsoon type, that is, it tends to be fine but subject to some rain.
August is in the rainy season, with any downpours generally brief (mainly in the afternoon or evening), followed by clear skies. It is not a rainy season like many other nations where you find consecutive rain for days at a time.
However, this season is characterized by a higher concentration of plankton, which attracts many more manta rays. This is exactly why we chose to plan the trip at this time, the best time of the year to see them in the best place in the world!
The temperature is constant all year round: the air temperature fluctuates between 27°C and 32°C, and the sea temperature is around 28-29°C, making wetsuits unnecessary.
Translated with DeepL.com (free version)
In general, the Maldivian climate is a tropical monsoon type, that is, it tends to be fine but subject to some rain.
August is in the rainy season, with any downpours generally brief (mainly in the afternoon or evening), followed by clear skies. It is not a rainy season like many other nations where you find consecutive rain for days at a time.
However, this season is characterized by a higher concentration of plankton, which attracts many more manta rays. This is exactly why we chose to plan the trip at this time, the best time of the year to see them in the best place in the world!
The temperature is constant all year round: the air temperature fluctuates between 27°C and 32°C, and the sea temperature is around 28-29°C, making wetsuits unnecessary.
Will Miki And Carlo Be Part Of This Trip?
No, this trip will be guided by Anna and a local team of guides. With the goal of giving more and more people the opportunity to realise their underwater dreams, we realised we cannot lead every group trip we organise. For this reason the selection of our guides will always be a meticulous process and you will always be in the best hands when choosing to travel with Bonny&Gava.
We have personally done all that is described in this itinerary and we carefully selected and decided each activity planned for this amazing trip. It will truly be one of the best weeks of diving and manta madness of your life!
Packing list?
A more detailed list will be provided before departure, but generally, keep in mind that temperatures in the Maldives are always warm, so you won’t need heavy clothing. Make sure to bring:
– For men: light t-shirts and shirts, as well as light shorts. You won’t really need long pants.
– For women: light t-shirts and wide airy shirts will be your best bet against the heat and to cover up a bit. Sarongs are perfectly okay if they aren’t too short or see-through. For the evening long dresses and skirts or light pants are recommended but not-too-short-shorts and skirts are also fine.
– Sandals and filpflops, no need for closed shoes.
– Bikinis and board shorts.
– Masks, snorkels, weight belts, fins, shorties, dive computers, underwater torches: bring everything you have for scuba or freediving; the rest can be rented.
– A waterproof bag is not required but may be convenient for the excursions.
– Sunscreen.
– Mosquito repellent.
– Underwater camera.
– Sunglasses.
– Earplugs for light sleepers.
– Water bottle.
– Power adapter (the Maldives use UK plugs).
– Personal medications.
Any extra questions?
Feel free to write to us! We’re here to help you have an unforgettable adventure 💙
