Thundi

Thundi is a reef site in Addu Atoll, the Maldives’ southernmost atoll, situated close to the historic British airbase at Gan. The site features a gently sloping outer reef with healthy coral coverage and consistent fish life influenced by the equatorial currents that bring nutrients into the atoll from the open Indian Ocean.

Site Conditions

• Depth range: 5–25 m
• Typical visibility: 15–30 m
• Currents: Light to moderate; generally calm inside the atoll
• Best season: November–April for northeast monsoon clarity

What to Expect

The reef slope descends through a series of coral terraces, each supporting distinct communities. The shallows host dense table and branching Acropora corals with clouds of chromis and anthias above. Mid-depth terraces are patrolled by hawksbill turtles, Napoleon wrasse, and large parrotfish. The lower slope at 20–25 metres opens onto a sandy terrace where white-tip reef sharks rest during the day. Addu Atoll has a notably different fish population compared to the northern atolls due to its isolation; species diversity can surprise divers familiar with North and South Male Atoll diving. Moray eels are abundant in the crevices throughout.

Tips for Divers

Addu Atoll’s position at the southern tip of the Maldivian chain means liveaboard itineraries passing through have more time at each site than heavily competed northern destinations. The site is well suited to long, relaxed dives covering the full depth profile at a leisure pace. A 3 mm wetsuit is sufficient in the warmer months, though water temperatures can dip to 26°C during the northeast monsoon.