Q & A

What is the cost of diving activities and equipment rental?

Is there a refund policy or cancellation charges?

We understand that plans can sometimes change unexpectedly. If you find yourself in a situation where you need to cancel, we offer a flexible solution. You will receive a voucher for the amount you’ve already paid, this voucher can be used toward any of the incredible experiences we offer at Scuba Therapy, and it remains valid for a generous period of 12 months. This way, you have the flexibility to reschedule and still enjoy the adventure you had in mind.

What group discounts or packages do you offer?

At Scuba Therapy, we appreciate the camaraderie and excitement that come with group diving experiences. Therefore, we offer special discounts tailored to larger groups. Here’s how it works:
Groups consisting of 6 divers or more are eligible for discounts. Additionally, if your group size exceeds 6, the group leader dives free of charge!
The discount rates are as follows:

• Groups between 6 and 9: Enjoy a 5% discount
• Groups of 10 to 13: Avail a 10% discount
• Groups of 14 or more: Benefit from a 15% discount
  These discounts make group diving trips both fun and more affordable for everyone!

Is travel insurance required to dive with you?

While travel insurance is generally a good idea for any trip, it is not a mandatory requirement for diving with Scuba Therapy. We prioritise the safety and well-being of our guests and have measures in place to ensure a safe diving experience. However, we do recommend considering insurance that covers diving-specific incidents for your own peace of mind.

What are the health requirements and considerations for scuba diving?

Scuba diving requires participants to be in good physical health due to the pressure and environmental changes experienced underwater. Below are the primary health requirements and considerations:

Physical Fitness
Cardiovascular Fitness: A healthy heart and lungs are crucial due to the increased workload they experience underwater.
Muscular Endurance: Strong muscles help divers to swim against currents and ensure safety underwater.

Medical Clearance
Pre-existing Conditions: Individuals with a history of lung, heart, or ear problems, epilepsy, or are pregnant should seek medical advice before diving.
Medical Review: A medical questionnaire is generally required to evaluate a participant’s health status, and in some cases, medical clearance may be required.

Respiratory Health
Having healthy lungs is paramount. Conditions like asthma may require an additional assessment.
Avoid diving when experiencing congestion to prevent complications due to pressure changes.

Age and Weight Considerations
Age limits vary, but children can begin diving courses at 10 with restrictions.
Maintaining a healthy weight range helps in buoyancy control and reduces the risk of strain injuries.

No Alcohol or Drugs
Avoid alcohol and drugs before diving as they can impair judgment, and coordination, and increase the risk of accidents. Remember to always dive within your limits, adhere to safety procedures, and stay informed about the latest health and safety standards in scuba diving. By maintaining optimal health and following recommended guidelines, you can enjoy a safe and rewarding scuba diving experience.

Are there any age restrictions for divers?

Yes, there are age restrictions for divers to ensure the safety and well-being of all participants.
Here are the general guidelines:

Minimum Age
Children: Some organizations allow children as young as 8 to participate in confined water (pool) sessions, but for open water diving, the minimum age is generally 10.Junior Certification: Divers aged 10-14 can usually earn a junior diver certification, allowing them to dive with a parent, guardian, or professional diver.

Maximum Age
There isn’t a specified maximum age for diving, but older divers may need to meet stricter health and fitness requirements.

Adult Supervision
Divers under the age of 18 are typically required to have consent from a parent or guardian and may need to dive with an adult, depending on their age and experience level.

Health and Maturity Considerations
Regardless of age, all divers should be in good health and possess the maturity to understand and follow diving safety rules and procedures

Is there a doctor or medical assistant available on-site?

Absolutely, your safety is our top priority. We have a medical clinic available on the island for immediate attention.
In the event of more specialized care, the regional hospital is only a 20-minute journey away on Mahibadhoo island. Additionally, for dive-specific medical needs such as decompression chamber assistance, Kuramathi and Bandos are reachable within 1.5 hours by speedboat.

What dive sites do you frequent, and what can I expect to see?

Prepare to be mesmerised by the breathtaking underwater world that awaits you at Scuba Therapy!
You will have prime access, amongst many other dive sites, to Fish Head, a marine-protected area considered a diver’s paradise. Here, you’ll find an abundance of marine life, ranging from enigmatic sharks and majestic manta rays to schools of colourful fish darting through the crystal-clear waters. Don’t be surprised if you also encounter other captivating sea creatures such as octopuses, lobsters, and a fascinating array of shrimps.

Ever heard of nudibranchs and flatworms? You’ll find these intriguing macro-life wonders here, too, along with ghost pipefish! Add to this the stunning overhangs and caves that are part of this underwater landscape. The corals? Oh, they’re something else entirely—a vivid tapestry of both hard and soft corals that make for a diver’s dream. From giant travellies and dog tooth tunas to eagle rays and stingrays, the marine life here is as diverse as it is awe-inspiring. And let’s not forget the elusive whale shark that occasionally graces us with its presence.

Dive 1 – Raalhu Araa Giri
Welcome to your first dive at Raalhu Araa Giri—a medium-sized pinnacle that serves as the ideal introduction to the wonders of the Maldives’ underwater kingdom. A relatively shallow dive, it’s perfect for beginners as well as experienced divers looking to shake off their sea legs. Here, waves frolic atop the pinnacle while just below the surface, you’ll find a sloping reef. This leads to an array of impressive overhangs, perfect for capturing those Instagram-worthy shots. Marine life thrives here. From reef sharks playing hide-and-seek among the corals to intricate macro-life waiting to be discovered by the keen-eyed diver, it’s a location that offers a bit of everything. Schools of fish
dance by while groupers—majestic and calm—watch you with interest.

Dive 2 – Athafaru Thila
Athafaru Thila—a hidden gem shaped like a teardrop and kissed by sandy beds to the east and shallow coral formations to the west. Although small, the pinnacle boasts an electrifying experience thanks to its positioning on a channel, creating the possibility of currents. North Athafaru Reef’s proximity offers a sanctuary for less challenging dives. The marine life is as vibrant as a tropical sunset. Picture yourself floating amidst large schools of red snapper, and imagine the thrill of encountering nurse sharks or the graceful white-tip reef sharks. A vivid parade of schooling bannerfish and eagle rays completes the scene, reminding you why this underrated site deserves more attention.

Dive 3 – Santana
Meet Santana, a quaint pinnacle offering more than meets the eye. While it may feature fewer overhangs, it makes up for it with a dynamic environment influenced by currents that can either be an exciting challenge or an opportunity to seek shelter and enjoy a more relaxed dive. The reef is adorned with a plush carpet of sponging corals, an idyllic setting for observing a myriad of schooling fish and the occasional hawksbill sea turtle, a real treat for any diver!

Dive 4 – Fish Head
Prepare for a mesmerizing experience at Fish Head, a medium-sized pinnacle set within a protected marine area that has become a diver’s paradise. With terrace-like overhangs perfect for hooking and watching the spectacle unfold, the site is teeming with life. As you drift, watch thousands of fusiliers dart around, pursued by predators like large jackfish and dogtooth tuna. A utopia for macro and wide-angle photography, the site is embellished by brown algae that serves as a smorgasbord for turtles and other marine life, including elusive nudibranchs and mantis shrimps.

Dive 5 – Olhiya Funn
Olhiya Funn—a medium to large-sized pinnacle graced with architectural overhangs on the western side. From the moment you make your descent, you’ll find yourself greeted by curious schools of batfish, offering a warm welcome to their aquatic home. While the pinnacle is crowned with a plethora of coral blocks, it’s advisable to hover between 8 to 15 meters for the optimum experience. Here, the water currents, flowing from West to East, fuel a whirlwind of activity, attracting hundreds of schooling fish. Keep your eyes peeled for the agile gray reef sharks and white-tip reef sharks, which often patrol the area, adding a dash of adrenaline to your dive.

Dive 6 – Athafaru Caves (Night Dive)
Uncover the hidden secrets of the ocean’s nocturnal life at Athafaru Caves. The site boasts an intricate series of caves, stretched along the coral-laden reef, lying at depths ranging between 5 to 15 meters. Not only are these underwater chambers spacious enough to navigate, but they also serve as restful havens for sea turtles, who you might find napping post-sunset. Venture further, and you’ll discover a menagerie of night-crawling creatures—from flatworms to an array of crustaceans—all flourishing under the moonlit waters.

Dive 7 – Mahibadhoo Rock
A relatively recent addition to the diving world, Mahibadhoo Rock serves as a bustling cleaning station for majestic manta rays, particularly from June through November.
The cleaning station is situated on a shallow part of a channel, teeming with schools of vibrant fish. For those who prefer snorkelling, the site provides ample opportunity to float at the surface and observe mantas feeding on plankton. Notably, this site allows you to witness two intriguing behaviours from mantas—one feeding shallowly by the reef and another holding a cleaning stance.
Rising in popularity, Mahibadhoo Rock has become an unmissable hotspot for manta watching. Don’t miss the exotic nudibranchs that also inhabit these waters, their appearances dictated by the currents.

Dive 8 – Omadhoo Thila
Omadhoo Thila, is a renowned pinnacle situated to the south of Omadhoo Island. This multifaceted dive site offers the possibility to explore two distinct sections. The Northern portion is characterized by a shallow stretch running from east to west, teeming with life. Meanwhile, the Southern segment, also spanning east to west, shallows out as you move westward.
Your underwater journey here promises encounters with a plethora of marine life including sharks, the awe-inspiring Napoleon wrasses, and graceful marble stingrays. Also, keep an eye out for the soaring eagle rays. A vibrant tapestry of both soft and hard corals surround the pinnacle, creating a picturesque underwater landscape perfect for macro and wide-angle photography.

Dive 9 – South Caves
South Caves, is a mesmerising dive site where nature’s architecture has fashioned an intricate series of overhangs amidst a reef with dramatic topography. This visual feast is enriched by a perfect blend of soft and hard corals that create a tapestry of colours and textures, offering plenty of places for diverse macro life to camouflage.
For those skilled in buoyancy, this site presents exciting swim-throughs that serve as a true test of your underwater finesse. South Caves is also an ideal spot for night dives, where nocturnal marine life awakens. Your torch might reveal stingrays and nurse sharks, taking their rest in the secluded corners of the caves.

Dive 10 – Hangnaameedhoo Pass
Discover the thrill of Hangnaameedhoo Pass, conveniently reachable in just 5 minutes from the harbor. Situated at the north reef corner of Hangnaameedhoo, this dive site is renowned for its powerful incoming currents that create a dynamic underwater landscape. Divers will find themselves captivated by the large plateau that starts at a depth of 20 meters, serving as a gathering point for magnificent gray reef and eagle rays. The channel dive experience at Hangnaameedhoo Pass is not for the faint-hearted; it’s where you can fully experience the might of strong currents and the large pelagic species that are attracted to them.

Dive 11 – Kuda Rah Thila
Kuda Rah Thila, is a celebrated marine protected area. As you descend, you’ll be greeted by the harmonious layers of fish—fusiliers painting the top layer, followed by schools of trevallies, bannerfish, and triggerfish swimming in between. The lower strata are home to thousands of blue-striped snappers, casting an almost surreal glow on the sea floor.
If you’re an avid photographer, the dive site is brimming with opportunities for both macro and wide-angle shots, thanks to large overhangs festooned with sea fans and a narrow arch perfect for swim-through captures. Whether you’re an enthusiast or a professional, Kuda Rah Thila never disappoints.
This dive is strategically planned to be on the route to the whale shark zone. Depending on the season and sightings, there’s a chance we might venture out to Maamigili Out Reef. The elusive whale shark sightings could be the cherry on top of your diving adventure.

Snorkelling with Whale Sharks
Not a diver? No problem. Elevate your Maldives experience by snorkelling alongside the majestic whale sharks. Glide through the tranquil waters and witness these gentle giants in their natural habitat. This once-in-a-lifetime experience promises to leave an indelible impression on your soul.

Can you explain each of the speciality dives you offer?

Action Camera Dive
Dive & Capture! In the Action Camera Dive, you’ll learn how to document your underwater escapades perfectly. We’ll teach you the ropes on handling action cameras under the water, dealing with lighting, and getting those awesome shots!

Boat Diving
Set Sail & Dive! Our Boat Diving speciality is your ticket to explore remote and pristine underwater worlds. You’ll pick up skills in boat diving procedures, safety measures, and entry and exit techniques, turning you into a savvy boat diver.

Deep 40 Dive
Explore the Depths! The Deep 40 Dive will unlock the gates to the profound secrets of the ocean. We’ll guide you through managing your gas supply, dealing with the pressure, and exploring the deep safely and confidently.

Night and Limited Visibility Dive
Dive under the stars! You’ll acquire the knack for communication, navigation, and light handling during nocturnal dives, opening up a mesmerising, unseen world.

Underwater Photography Dive
Snapshot the Marine Beauty! In this speciality, you’ll get hands-on experience in capturing the vivid and dynamic underwater life. Learn the secrets of lighting, focus, and composition to bring out the best in your underwater shots.

Wreck Diving
Unravel the Maritime Mysteries! Delve into the historical underwater treasures with our Wreck Diving specialty. You’ll learn how to safely explore wrecks with the right procedures and navigation techniques to uncover stories of the past.

Enriched Air Nitrox Dive
Breathe & Stay Longer! Our Enriched Air Nitrox Dive will introduce you to the benefits of using enriched air, allowing more time underwater. Learn the procedures for nitrox use, managing oxygen exposure, and analysing gas mixtures.

Navigation Dive
Find Your Way! With our Navigation Dive, you’ll master the art of underwater navigation using compass and natural references, ensuring you can always find your way. It’s all about diving with confidence and exploring without boundaries.

Waves, Tides & Currents Dive
Ride the Ocean Waves! Experience the dynamic marine environment by learning how to handle waves, tides, and currents effectively. Understand the rhythm of the sea and use it to your advantage for smoother, more enjoyable dives.

Shark Ecology Dive
Discover the Shark Realm! Explore the misunderstood world of sharks and gain insights into their behaviours, habitats, and conservation needs. You’ll learn about the vital role sharks play in the marine ecosystem and how to safely interact with them.

Sea Turtle Ecology Dive
Meet the Gentle Mariners! Dive in and get acquainted with the enchanting sea turtles!
Understand their life cycles, feeding habits, and migration patterns. Learn about their significance in marine ecosystems and conservation efforts to protect them.

Perfect Buoyancy Dive
Float with Mastery! Perfect Buoyancy Dive is your chance to achieve effortless floating and glide smoothly through the water. Master the skills to conserve your air, leave no trace, and approach marine life without disturbing them.

Do you rent underwater photography equipment?

Capturing the underwater world is an exciting part of the diving experience for many. However, Scuba Therapy does not currently offer underwater photography equipment rentals. Upon request, our dive guides may take pictures or videos of your fun dives at no additional cost to you; we also encourage guests to bring their own cameras.

What accommodation packages do you offer, and what do they include?

At Scuba Therapy, we believe in offering a seamless full-dive travel experience. That’s why we provide comprehensive ‘Dive and Stay’ packages that include a range of thoughtful amenities. Your package will include:
✓ Round-trip transfers to and from the airport for stress-free travel.
✓ A full-board meal plan featuring breakfast, lunch, and dinner to keep you fueled throughout the day.
✓ Expert-guided diving sessions that explore the mesmerising dive sites around Hangnaameedhoo.
✓ A farewell beach dinner to cap off your memorable stay.
✓ For guests seeking a more customised experience, we offer tailor-made packages in collaboration with eight different guest houses on the island.
The exact inclusions may vary depending on the duration of your stay and the accommodation category of your choice.

Are meals included in the dive packages?

Indeed, meals are an integral part of the diving experience at Scuba Therapy. To ensure you’re well-fed and energised for your underwater adventures, all of our dive packages include a full-board meal plan. This covers breakfast, lunch, and dinner for the duration of your stay.

Can you accommodate dietary restrictions with the provided meals?

Absolutely! We know that dietary needs can be as unique as our guests, all we ask is that you notify us in advance so we can tailor your meal plan accordingly

Can I customise my diving package to include specific sites or add-ons?

Certainly! We offer a range of customisable options to enrich your underwater adventure. From exhilarating night dives to multiple visits to popular sites like Fish Head, and even private speed boat transfers. Simply let us know what you’re interested in, and we’ll be more than happy to accommodate.

What is your payment/booking policy?

We’ve streamlined our payment and booking process to make it as straightforward as possible.
To secure your reservation, we require a 50% deposit at least one month prior to your arrival. The remaining 50% can be settled upon your arrival at our facility. This approach allows us to better prepare for your visit while offering you lots of flexibility. We understand that travel plans can be fluid, which is why bookings can be made at any time based on availability.
We work in partnership with multiple guest houses on the island, providing us with the flexibility to accommodate you even during busier periods. After your booking is confirmed, you will receive a booking confirmation on behalf of the guest house where you’ll be staying.

Do you have multilingual instructors available?

At Scuba Therapy, our instructors are proficient in English, allowing us to effectively communicate safety procedures and dive information. While we don’t currently offer instruction in multiple languages, we prioritise clear and precise communication to ensure a fulfilling and secure diving experience.
Upon request, we may be able to offer courses in other languages through our network of freelance instructors. This is subject to availability.

Can you accommodate people with disabilities?

We believe the joy of diving should be accessible to everyone. We are equipped to accommodate divers with disabilities and ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience. If you or someone you are diving with have specific needs or requirements, we encourage you to reach out to us in advance so we can make the necessary preparations.

Do you offer Wi-Fi and other amenities at your center?

We offer complimentary Wi-Fi throughout our center so you can easily share your experiences or catch up on emails. We also provide a range of other amenities to make your visit as comfortable as possible. Feel free to inquire about additional services when you arrive.

Do you have a dive shop for purchasing equipment and accessories?

Indeed! We have an on-site dive shop stocked with a range of high-quality equipment and accessories. Whether you’re looking to replace a piece of gear or pick up some last-minute essentials, our shop has got you covered.

Is gear storage available at the dive center?

We do offer dedicated storage facilities for your gear right within our dive center. This allows you to keep your equipment safe, dry and accessible, ensuring you’re always ready for your next dive.

Is there a restaurant or café at or near your center?

Absolutely, the island offers a variety of dining options to satisfy your culinary cravings. While we don’t have an on-site restaurant or café at Scuba Therapy, you’ll find five local cafes in the nearby vicinity. These cafes serve a range of beverages, including juices, coffee and tea, as well as a selection of short eats. If you’re interested in more substantial meals, you can easily find options at local rates, ranging from 3 to 6 US dollars per meal.

Are there any hidden fees I should be aware of, like marine park fees or service charges?

For us transparency is a core value. The prices we display include all applicable fees and taxes, so you won’t be met with any unpleasant surprises. Additionally, extra boat fees are not applicable to your dives, meaning the price you see is genuinely the final cost.

Can I get a discount if I bring my own equipment?

While we appreciate the dedication of divers who bring their own equipment, we currently do not offer discounts for this. Our pricing is structured to provide a comprehensive experience that includes the use of our high-quality diving gear.

Do you offer any low-season discounts or promotions? What discounts?

Absolutely! Budget considerations are important when planning your diving trips. To that end, we offer special discounts during the low season, which can significantly reduce your overall expenses. These discounts range from 10% to 25%, and they are designed to provide an accessible and affordable diving experience during specific periods.
Get in touch with us via WhatsApp to learn more about our special deals!

What is the max ratio of divers to dive guides?

For your safety, comfort, and personalized attention, we strictly adhere to a maximum ratio of 1 dive guide for every 6 divers.
This ratio allows our experienced guides to provide individualised support, ensure the adherence to safety protocols, and enhance the overall quality of your diving adventure. We prioritise your experience, and this ratio reflects our commitment to delivering exceptional underwater experiences

Do you have a hyperbaric chamber on-site or nearby?

In the event of a diving emergency, we have two hyperbaric chambers available within a reasonable distance. Both chambers are located approximately 75 minutes away at Bandos Island Resort and Kuramathi Island Resort. These facilities are well-equipped to provide the necessary treatment if ever required.

Can I book and pay for my dives online?

Yes, we’ve streamlined the booking process for your convenience. You can inquire about and book your dives through email or WhatsApp. Additionally, we offer the option to make payments conveniently through WISE transfer, ensuring a hassle-free reservation process.

Can I change my booking dates without incurring a fee?

You can change your booking dates without incurring any fees, provided that you notify us within a reasonable time frame. We’re here to accommodate your needs and ensure a stress-free diving experience.

What are your sustainability practices to protect the marine environment?

At Scuba Therapy, we’re deeply committed to preserving the marine environment for future generations of divers. To achieve this, we’ve implemented a series of sustainability practices:

• No gloves. No touching: We adhere to a ‘look but don’t touch’ policy to minimize any potential impact on delicate marine life.
• Remove debris every dive: Our divers actively participate in removing debris from the underwater environment during every dive, contributing to a cleaner ocean.
• Improve buoyancy – buoyancy workshops: We offer buoyancy workshops to help divers refine their skills, reducing the risk of accidental contact with reefs and marine creatures.

We also stay updated with the official diving regulations of the Maldives, ensuring that our practices align with the latest conservation guidelines.

Can non-diving family members or friends accompany divers on the boat?

Due to space and safety considerations, we do not accommodate non-diving guests on the boat.
However, we encourage them to enjoy the beautiful surroundings of the Maldives while you make bubbles down there.