LE MERIDIEN HOUSEREEF

The Thilamaafushi house reef is situated at the northern region of the island. This dive site offers a sheltered environment, making it accessible year-round for both divers and snorkelers. With its four different dive sites, including a thila (a typical Maldivian reef formation), this location is perfect for divers of all skill levels.

Macro diving enthusiasts will be delighted by the abundant marine life in the house reef. From sleeping rays to nurse sharks, there are plenty of fascinating creatures to discover, even some unexpected sightings such as passing mantas. Sandy patches within the reef provide a comfortable habitat for these underwater residents.

Located off the coast of Le Méridien Maldives Resort & Spa in Lhaviyani, Maldives, the Thilamaafushi house reef offers a unique experience for divers. The western side of the reef, known as House Reef West, features a gentle slope with diverse hard coral formations, teeming with a healthy fish population. Explorers can find coral blocks filled with glassfish and cracks that harbor lobsters. Keep an eye out for larger fish swimming by in the blue.

Moving towards the central part of the house reef, known as House Reef Center, both snorkelers and divers are treated to a vibrant underwater oasis. The varied types and colors of corals attract large schools of tropical reef fish. Patches of seagrass at a depth of 2-6 meters create an enchanting sight, hosting a range of stingrays, including feathertail rays, porcupine rays, jenkins's stingrays, and marble rays. Manta rays and barracudas occasionally grace this area. The House Reef Center also serves as a feeding ground and home for green turtles. Divers can venture further into a fairyland of surprises with a sandy slope leading to a "magic field" showcasing Sabellidae (little tube worms), hermit crabs residing in shells, and captivating marine life like lionfish, sepias, and mantis shrimp.

On the eastern side of the house reef, named House Reef East, divers can explore a colorful coral reef ranging from 3 to 12 meters in depth. Secluded coral blocks near the main reef provide photo opportunities, while nearby seagrass fields attract a variety of marine species. The resident marine biologist utilizes this area to regenerate corals and create new habitats, resulting in artificial reefs made from coral frames, steel drums, and even a small wreck. Witness the stages of a thriving reef ecosystem.

For a truly immersive dive experience, follow the rope at buoy 2 to reach the House Reef Thila. This submerged sea mountain unveils its top reef at around 5 meters, gradually dropping to a depth of 30 meters. The Thila is home to a vibrant and diverse marine life, including grey reef sharks, blacktip reef sharks, eagle rays, and trevallies hunting in the currents. Nurse sharks can be found sleeping in the sand or rock cavities, while turtles utilize the Thila as a resting and feeding ground. Keen observers might spot octopuses and the mesmerizing lionfish. Advanced divers can explore a hole in the reef at 25 meters, filled with glassfish and cleaner shrimp.

With a visibility of 12 meters and a maximum depth of 14 meters, the Thilamaafushi house reef offers an exhilarating diving experience suitable for beginners, advanced divers, and experts alike. Discover the wonders of the underwater world in the Maldives, only a short distance from Le Méridien Maldives Resort & Spa in Lhaviyani, Maldives.