Guide
The tiger shark dive in Fuvahmulah: everything you need to know
Diving with tiger sharks in Fuvahmulah is different from any other shark dive in the Maldives. The sharks are wild animals that live around the island all year, drawn close to shore by the deep ocean and the fishing activity around the harbour. Researchers have identified more than 300 different tiger sharks here over seven years — the largest tiger shark aggregation known in the world — most of them large females that return again and again.
Where does the dive take place?
We dive at Tiger Garden, a shallow site a short boat ride from the harbour. The bottom is sand and rubble at around 8–12 metres, so there is plenty of light, little decompression stress and enough bottom time to enjoy the encounter. Deeper reefs nearby can add thresher sharks and other ocean visitors.
What happens on the dive?
Everything starts with a full briefing on shark behaviour, signals and positions. Underwater the group settles in a line close to the guide, keeping arms close to the body. Then you simply watch: tiger sharks of three to five metres approach, turn and pass, often within a few metres. Guides watch the sharks at all times and lead the group back to the surface together.
When is the best time to dive with tiger sharks?
Tiger sharks are seen in Fuvahmulah all year round. The calmer, drier months from about December to April usually bring the best visibility; from May to November the south-west monsoon can bring more wind and swell, but the tiger shark dive continues whenever conditions are safe. See the best time to dive in Fuvahmulah for the full calendar.
What experience do you need?
- Advanced Open Water or equivalent (recommended).
- Good buoyancy control: you will stay still close to the bottom.
- Around 30 logged dives (recommended).
- Good physical condition and a dive medical statement when required.
Frequently asked questions
How deep is the tiger shark dive?
Tiger Garden is a shallow site: most of the dive takes place at around 8–12 metres.
Will I see a tiger shark?
Tiger sharks are present in Fuvahmulah all year and are seen on most dives at Tiger Garden, but they are wild animals: no encounter can ever be guaranteed.
How big are the tiger sharks in Fuvahmulah?
Most of the sharks you meet are adults of about three to five metres. The majority are females.
Is diving with tiger sharks safe?
Every dive follows a strict protocol: full briefing, fixed positions, experienced guides watching the sharks at all times and small groups. Read our tiger shark safety protocol.
