Miyaru Kandu

Miyaru Kandu

Miyaru Kandu — “Shark Channel” in Dhivehi — is a wide tidal channel north of Alimatha island in Vaavu Atoll (Felidhoo Atoll), approximately 120 minutes from Male by speedboat, known for concentrated grey reef shark and whitetip reef shark encounters.

Overview

Miyaru Kandu is approximately 150 metres wide with sloping corners to the north and south, dropping to a sandy channel bottom at around 29–31 metres with midnight coral. Incoming tides push through the channel and generate the current that concentrates predators. Multiple sources confirm large schools of grey reef sharks (sometimes 20–50 individuals) and whitetip reef sharks, tuna, and Napoleon wrasse. Scalloped hammerheads have been reported at this site on some dives during the right conditions, though encounters are not guaranteed. Current speeds of 3–4 knots are typical; on strong current days this site demands expert-level drift skills. Visibility typically reaches 20–35 metres.

Site Information

• Location: Vaavu Atoll (Felidhoo Atoll), Maldives — north of Alimatha island
• Entry Type: Boat dive
• Site Type: Drift dive
• Difficulty Level: Advanced
• Maximum Depth: 31 meters
• Typical Visibility: 20–35 metres
• Current: Strong to very strong (3–4 knots typical), tidal

Marine Life

Grey reef sharks (schools confirmed, 20–50 individuals reported), whitetip reef sharks, tuna, Napoleon wrasse, giant trevally. Scalloped hammerheads reported on some dives — not a guaranteed encounter. Channel floor has midnight coral formations on sandy bottom.

Diving Tips

• Dive on an incoming tide for best shark concentrations at the ocean-facing channel entrance.
• The channel is about 150 m wide — stay oriented to the sloping walls on entry.
• Reef hooks are strongly recommended; confirm with your operator.
• Advanced Open Water minimum; 50+ logged dives and prior drift experience recommended by local operators.
• A surface marker buoy (SMB) is mandatory for the drift exit.

Getting There

Miyaru Kandu is in Vaavu Atoll, approximately 120 minutes from Male by speedboat or accessible by liveaboard. Alimatha Island Resort is the closest base.

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Sources: Maldivestour.guide Miyaru Kandu, ZuBlu Vaavu Atoll, Emperor Divers Southern Shark Adventure. Last updated 2026-06-15.