Nestled amidst the manta hot spots of the Lhaviyani Atoll, Kudadoo Maldives Private Island by Hurawalhi is the perfect hideaway from which to embark upon thrilling excursions. Mantas are most likely to be seen during November and December but the season can last right through to April. Manta season sees these iconic Maldives creatures frequent nearby cleaning stations at the start of the season before moving on to embark upon a feeding frenzy at different locations including Danifaru which can be reached by boat in an hour, and if we are very lucky, the sandbank close to our resort, creating incredible opportunities to spend time with these iconic creatures.
As a resident at Kudadoo you can enjoy as many excursions as you wish and if the mantas are around we will go in search of them – simply let your private butler know that mantas are on your wish list and they will do their best to create an unforgettable itinerary where you can try to get multiple bucket list wishes granted during your stay with us. In manta season you can cruise across the atoll for around 30 minutes for a dive at a renowned manta cleaning station, Fushivaru, and watch as the gentle giants glide effortlessly down to get cleaned above the huge coral blocks, your dive butler will know the perfect spot for an incredible view without disturbing their natural behaviour. Excursions are undertaken in small groups of up to 4 people aboard a dhoni boat, or you can charter our luxury yacht, Bella, for private and exclusive adventures – there is an additional cost for this option and advance booking for this is recommended. Residents chartering Bella have the opportunity, in the right season, to visit Hanifaru Bay in the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in Baa Atoll, known for the largest gatherings of manta rays anywhere on the planet, these usually occur between August and October but cannot be guaranteed.
Be joined by Hurawalhi’s resident marine biologist for insights into the life and conservation of these huge rays. Go on epic snorkelling adventures and see mantas performing a ballet of huge somersaults underwater as they funnel plankton into their wide mouths, and after, enjoy an exquisite picnic on the secluded sandbank before heading back to celebrate your adventures by sipping champagne.
These adventures can be repeated as often as you desire, included in the island’s unique and all-encompassing ‘Anything, Anywhere, Anytime’ fully-inclusive concept.
Mantas, as with all wild marine creatures, are free and travel immense distances, even in the right season we cannot guarantee sightings but we will do our absolute best to take you to see them where sightings have been made.
