Maaya Thila

Maaya Thila is a thila, a coral pinnacle rising from the atoll floor to within a few metres of the surface, in North Ari Atoll, and it is a protected marine area. It is dived by day for the overhangs and soft coral, but its reputation rests on the night dive: whitetip reef sharks hunt around the pinnacle after dark in numbers, working the light from divers' torches, and the whole thing happens within a few metres.

What you actually see

• The night dive - whitetip reef sharks hunting around the pinnacle after dark.
• The pinnacle - a coral tower rising from the atoll floor to near the surface.
• The overhangs - the undercut sections with soft coral and glassfish.
• The protected status - the marine protected area covering the site.

When to go

November to April has the calmest conditions and best visibility. Night dives run year round. Currents can be strong on the exposed sides.

Honest expectations

It is a very popular site and several boats can be on it at once, including at night. Torch light attracts the sharks, which raises questions about the practice. Currents can be strong.

Nearby

Rasdhoo is north, and Ukulhas is northwest.