Fish Head

Diving "Fish Head" (Mushimasmingili Thila), Ari Atoll, Maldives

Fish Head, also known as Mushimasmingili Thila, is a renowned dive site in Ari Atoll, Maldives, famous for its incredible shark activity and abundance of reef fish. This submerged pinnacle offers a thrilling experience for divers seeking close encounters with pelagic marine life.

Dive Details

Depth & Visibility

• Typical Depth Range: 10-35 meters (33-115 feet)
• Average Visibility: 15-30 meters (50-100 feet)

Water Temperature

Water temperatures in Ari Atoll generally range from 27-30°C (81-86°F) year-round. Slight variations occur seasonally, with the warmer temperatures generally experienced during the Northeast Monsoon (November to April).

Difficulty Level

Intermediate to Advanced: Due to the potential for strong currents and the depth of the site, Fish Head is best suited for divers with some experience. Good buoyancy control is essential. Often there are two dives planned, one drift dive around the reef and a second where divers may hover in current to observe the sharks.

Marine Life

Divers can expect to see an astonishing array of marine life at Fish Head. The site is particularly famous for its grey reef sharks, which are present in large numbers. Other commonly sighted species include:

• Grey Reef Sharks
• White Tip Reef Sharks
• Napoleon Wrasse
• Dogtooth Tuna
• Barracuda
• Moray Eels
• Large schools of reef fish (Fusiliers, Snappers, Jacks)
• Occasional eagle rays and manta rays.

Best Time to Visit

While diving is excellent year-round, the best time to visit Fish Head is generally considered to be during the dry season, from November to April. This period offers the best visibility and calmer seas. The shark activity is consistently high throughout the year.

What Makes It Special

The sheer density of grey reef sharks is the primary draw to Fish Head. The thila's topography, with its overhangs and crevices, provides a habitat for a diverse range of marine life. The nutrient-rich currents that flow around the pinnacle attract large schools of fish, further enhancing the diving experience.

Practical Tips

Before diving Fish Head, consider these points:

• Currents: Be prepared for potentially strong currents. Listen carefully to your dive guide's briefing and follow their instructions.
• Buoyancy Control: Maintain excellent buoyancy control to avoid damaging the reef and to ensure you remain at the optimal depth for observing marine life.
• Respect the Wildlife: Observe the sharks and other marine life from a respectful distance. Avoid touching or harassing the animals.
• Dive Computer: Use a dive computer to monitor your depth and bottom time.
• Reef Hook: Consider using a reef hook to secure yourself in strong currents (use responsibly and only on designated areas).