Surrounded by pristine white beaches and coral reefs, Bathala is probably the best dive resort in the Maldives . It offers easy access to many famous reefs or thila, including the protected marine reserves of Maaya Thila and Fish Head. Apart from fabulous corals and the strange creatures that live among them, the list of resident marine species round Bathala includes barracuda, turtles, rays, Napoleon wrasse and several varieties of shark.

But you don't have to be a diver to enjoy Bathala. This remote tropical island getaway is full of serenity and its own uncomplicated charm, ideal for the Robinson Crusoe in you. Bathala is perfect for pure relaxation, a place to lie back in a hammock with a book, watch the moon rise and the sun set, sunbathe, stroll, snorkel or just spend a few quiet, uninterrupted days and nights with someone special.

Excursions off Bathala Island Resort include diving excursions, night dives and boat dives. The house reef is wonderful for snorkeling and diving. Guests can easily swim to the reef edge, which drops sharply to about 28m.

Accommodation

Bathala Island Resort offers accommodation built around a typical diver's schedule: morning dive, lunch, afternoon dive, relax on the beach, have a beer or two at the bar before dinner and maybe a little music and relaxation afterwards.

Facilities are kept simple to suit the pace and character of island life. Highlights include restaurant theme nights, indoor games.

Room facilities:

• 46 A/C rustic cabaña-style cottages
• Private outdoor showers with hot & cold water
• 24-hour fresh water supply
• Minibar in all rooms

Hotel facilities:

• Restaurant
• Dive School offering PADI and CMAS certification with personalised instruction in English, German or Italian
• Gift shop
• Bar & coffee shop

Sports & Leisure

• Karaoke
• Table tennis
• Beach volleyball
• Indoor games
• Fully equipped dive school
• Snorkelling

• Boating
• Deep sea fishing
• Diving excursions
• Night dives
• Boat dives
• Scuba dives

Excursions

From the early morning to the night, dives on the house reef are possible all year around. Experienced divers can dive with their buddy, unaccompanied. Less experienced divers will be accompanied by an instructor.

Night dives at the house reef are possible every day. Breathtaking night dives at Maya Thila with hunting sharks, Murays and giant barracuda are done occasionally.

Location: Ari Atoll, approximately 20 minutes by seaplane from Malé International Airport .