Miyaru Faru

Miyaru Faru — “Shark Reef” in Dhivehi — is a reef formation in South Malé Atoll whose name signals the main attraction: a consistent population of reef sharks that patrol the outer reef edge alongside healthy coral formations and schooling fish.

Overview

Miyaru Faru takes its name from the Dhivehi word for shark (miyaru), reflecting the reliable shark sightings that have made this reef a favoured dive. The site extends along an outer reef face from the shallows down to 25 metres, with coral gardens on the upper slope giving way to steeper walls and sandy channels lower down. White-tip reef sharks are the most common species, seen resting on the sand and patrolling the reef edge, while grey reef sharks occasionally join them on stronger current days. The coral health is solid, with a mixture of hard coral tables, branching formations, and sea fans that attract butterflyfish, angelfish, and the ever-present parrotfish. Turtles graze on the reef top with regularity.

Site Information

• Location: Maldives, Asia
• Entry Type: Boat dive
• Site Type: Reef
• Difficulty Level: Intermediate
• Maximum Depth: 25 meters
• Typical Visibility: 15-30 meters (50-100 feet)
• Current: Moderate, variable

Marine Life

White-tip reef sharks, grey reef sharks, turtles, parrotfish, butterflyfish, angelfish, grouper, moray eels, sea fans, and schools of fusiliers along the outer reef face.

Diving Tips

• Scan the sandy channels at the reef base for resting white-tips before they retreat to deeper water.
• The upper reef slope (8–15 metres) has excellent coral diversity for unhurried reef photography.
• Stronger current typically improves shark activity — ask your guide about tidal timing.
• Combine with nearby Miyaru Kandu for a two-dive trip featuring both reef and channel experiences.

Getting There

Miyaru Faru is located in South Malé Atoll and is reached by dive boat from nearby resorts or from Malé, approximately 30–60 minutes by dhoni or speedboat.