Making note of the lunar cycle probably isn’t on everyone’s checklist when they are booking a holiday.
However, if you are a diver – or perhaps a werewolf – it should probably be part of your planning process.
A full or new moon in the Maldives can have a profound effect on the strength of the currents potentially making them too strong for novice divers to cope with.
In contrast, the added tidal power can add to the challenge and exhilaration for those experienced enough to not just negotiate but rejoice in them.
So making sure you are arriving in this amazing country at the right time to enjoy the perfect conditions for you is extremely important.
Emperor Divers Maldives general manager Bernie McAteer explains: “Don’t think about drift dives when you think of current dives in the Maldives, we rarely do drift dives here.
“The dives are current-specific as we focus on ‘hotspots’ which could be a split point on a thila, a cleaning station on a reef or the entrance of a channel mouth. We want current. Current brings energy and life to the dive site, so we want to stay in these hotspots for as long as safely possible to watch to the incredible action unfold.
“The currents in the Maldives are not only affected by the lunar phase but full and new moons can certainly make them stronger. And while this extra current can bring even more life to our already abundant reefs it can be challenging for divers with less experience.
“We have reef hooks – although I prefer to call them rock hooks – on board which are free for guests to use during the trip and our dive team will explain their use and the best techniques to anyone who has not used them before.
“They are an amazing tool which help you to enjoy the show with minimal effort, also leaving your hands free for any camera divers out there. Quicker descents maybe required on trips with stronger currents and being dive fit really helps for all divers as there maybe a little extra leg work…
“Checking the lunar phase before booking your trip is a great idea if you are less experienced – or you simply like it a bit calmer – as this gives you a good chance to avoid the strongest currents.
“Alternatively, for those of you who love the exhilaration of currents and what they can bring, then it’s definitely worth a look to see when the moon is full and the current is at its strongest.
“No matter what your preference, we will make sure you get the most out of your time with us.”
To check the moon phases you can use timeanddate.com and see what conditions are likely to offer when you visit the Maldives.
