Ukulhas
Ukulhas Island · Alif Alif Ukulhas
4°10.1'N 72°55.4'E
Depth
3–10m
Bottom
sand
Alarm Radius
60m
Holding
Good
Recommended Anchor Alarm Radius
60m
60m radius — shallow lagoon with excellent sand holding. Good protection from NE trades on the eastern lagoon side. Atoll rim position means some western swell exposure.
About This Anchorage
Ukulhas is an inhabited island in North Ari Atoll that has become known as one of the most environmentally conscious communities in the Maldives. The island has won national awards for waste management and coral reef conservation. The lagoon anchorage on the eastern side offers good sand holding with natural protection from the NE monsoon. The community is welcoming to visiting sailors and has developed guesthouse facilities for budget travellers. The surrounding reef is healthy and well-protected by the community — snorkelling directly from the anchorage is excellent. A model of sustainable island tourism.
Protected From
N · NE · E
Exposed To
S · SW · W
Anchoring Rules
- Anchoring fee
- Free
- Permit required
- Yes
- Permit details
- Maldives Yacht Cruising Permit required. Inhabited island. This island has strict environmental rules — no single-use plastics allowed ashore. Bikini beach area designated.
Restrictions: No single-use plastics to be brought ashore. No smoking in public areas. Alcohol prohibited on the island. Bikini beach on the designated beach only.
Hazards
- !Shallow lagoon perimeter — monitor depth on approach
- !Coral protected areas adjacent to anchorage
Skipper's Tips
- →Ukulhas is highly recommended for its conservation ethos and community warmth
- →Bring reusable bags and water bottles — align with the island's environmental values
- →House reef snorkelling directly from the anchorage is some of the best in North Ari Atoll
- →Community guide available for reef walks and island tours
- →Small café on the island serves excellent Maldivian short eats
Facilities
Community café and guesthouse restaurants. Maldivian cuisine. No alcohol.
Nearest provisions: Ukulhas island (0nm)
Best Months & Season
November, December, January, February, March, April
NE monsoon (Nov–Apr). Excellent base for exploring North Ari Atoll by dinghy. SW monsoon brings swell and uncomfortable conditions.
Recommended Anchor Types
Nearby Anchorages
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