If you’re passionate about diving or just curious about what lies beneath the turquoise waters of the Maldives, there’s a name you need to know: Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives. This year, Kandooma Maldives made headlines by being named Maldives’ Leading Dive Resort 2025 at the World Travel Awards.
It’s a big moment not just for the resort, but for divers across the world, as this was the first time this award category was introduced. The win highlights Kandooma Maldives’ genuine dedication to making diving more accessible, exciting, and unforgettable.
Diving Where the Ocean Comes Alive
Ask anyone who’s dived near Kandooma Maldives, and they’ll tell you this part of the Maldives feels like a living, breathing aquarium. The turquoise water here is home to everything from graceful manta rays and turtles to sleek reef sharks and massive schools of fish. It’s colorful, wild, and constantly moving.
Right around the corner from the resort are some of the Maldives’ most talked-about dive sites:
- Kandooma Thila: Known for grey reef shark sightings.
- Guraidhoo Corner: Offers thrilling drift dives with big pelagic action.
- Medhu Faru: Delivers stunning coral walls and easy-going currents.
- Turtle Point: A favorite spot for encountering gentle sea creatures.
The best part? These dive sites are just minutes away from Kandooma Maldives, meaning divers can fit in up to three dives a day without rushing.
Making Diving More Accessible
One of the things that sets Kandooma Maldives apart is their ‘Dive Free’ program. It’s a bold idea: guests who stay three nights or more and already have their diving certification get two free boat dives per day, complete with gear and professional guidance.
It’s a refreshing shift from the usual. As General Manager Mark Eletr puts it, “Diving can be expensive. We wanted to change that, open it up to more people, and show them how magical these waters really are.” And they have.
Something for Everyone at Kandooma Maldives
Never dived before? That’s not a problem. Kandooma Maldives’ on-site 5-star PADI dive center offers full certification courses, refresher sessions, and specialty dives like underwater photography and night diving.
Whether you’re a beginner or have hundreds of dives behind you, there’s something here for you to explore. For those who prefer to stay above water, Kandooma Maldives also offers:
- A wide range of water sports
- Dolphin cruises to see these playful creatures in the wild
More Than Just a Beautiful Place
What makes Kandooma Maldives special isn’t just the marine life. It’s the way the resort blends incredible underwater experiences with a real commitment to ocean conservation and sustainability.
The team genuinely cares about offering amazing dives and protecting the ecosystem that makes them possible. Located on Kandoomaafushi Island in the South Male Atoll, Kandooma Maldives is more than just a dive resort. It’s a family-friendly destination that offers a range of amenities to ensure a comfortable stay—from luxurious water villas to rejuvenating spa treatments.
The Kandooma Maldives Experience
Kandooma Maldives isn’t just a resort—it’s a destination for those who want to see the ocean up close and love it a little more with every dive. The resort offers an all-inclusive package that covers meals, activities, and of course, diving.
Getting there: Reaching Kandoomaafushi Island is easy with a speedboat transfer from Velana International Airport. Once you arrive, you’ll be greeted with a welcome drink and stunning views of the Indian Ocean.
For those looking to explore beyond Kandooma Maldives, the resort organizes trips to nearby local islands, giving guests a glimpse into authentic Maldivian culture and daily life.
As the sun sets, head to the resort’s sunset deck for breathtaking views. End your day with a private dining experience under the stars or enjoy the evening entertainment provided by the resort’s friendly staff.
Thinking of diving into the Maldives? Book your stay at Kandooma Maldives and experience why this resort isn’t just a place to stay—it’s a gateway to unforgettable underwater adventures in one of the world’s most beautiful destinations. Let’s Go Maldives!
