Farikede

Farikede is a reef dive on the southern side of Fuvahmulah featuring a broad underwater plateau and drop-off and is widely regarded as one of the most popular sites in the Fuvahmulah region. The site is noted for attracting pelagic life, with frequent encounters with reef sharks, thresher sharks, silvertip and occasional hammerhead sharks, as well as tuna, barracuda and sometimes oceanic manta rays or whale sharks. Coral cover on the reef top is generally healthy with colorful hard corals. Dives are conducted as boat-entry drift dives along the plateau; the reef plateau extends around 40-60 m with a maximum recreational depth near 30 m. Strong currents are common and the site is recommended for experienced or advanced divers; visibility often is good but can vary with currents. The site is inside a protected area so local regulations apply. Hazards include strong currents and unpredictable pelagic encounters, so proper drift-diving procedures and buoyancy control are essential.