Miyaru Kandu

Miyaru Kandu is a narrow, deep ocean channel in Vaavu Atoll that follows a cleft between steep coral reef walls and outcrops. The walls are richly covered in hard and soft corals, gorgonians and sponges and feature ledges, overhangs, short swim-throughs and caves. The site is famous for sharks and pelagics: grey reef and whitetip reef sharks frequently patrol the channel, schools of jacks, tuna and barracuda are common, and giant manta rays and eagle rays are often encountered in the current, particularly during certain seasons. The dive is done from a boat as a drift through the channel; strong tidal currents commonly flush nutrient-rich water and carry divers along the cleft between the walls. Depths reach well beyond 20 m, so careful depth and buoyancy control are required. Visibility in Vaavu is generally good but currents can surge quickly with the tide. This is an exhilarating drift dive suited to experienced or advanced divers.