Anchorages in South Malé & Ari Atoll

South Ari Marine Protected Area & Ari Atoll Permit Rules

The South Ari Marine Protected Area is one of the world's best whale shark sites — year-round resident population. Rules are strictly enforced: 3m minimum distance from whale sharks, snorkelling only (no SCUBA near whale sharks), no touching, no flash photography.Your Maldives Yacht Cruising Permit must explicitly include Alif Alif and Alif Dhaal atolls — confirm before departure from Malé. Anchoring on coral is a criminal offence. No alcohol on inhabited islands. Rasdhoo Madivaru hammerhead dives require strong current experience — dive with a guide only.