Nestled in the pristine waters of Vaavu Atoll, Cinnamon Velifushi Maldives offers guests a serene getaway where comfort and natural beauty merge effortlessly. The resort’s secluded location provides an untouched paradise, perfect for travellers seeking tranquillity away from the hustle and bustle of more crowded spots in the Maldives. Vaavu Atoll, known for its vibrant marine life, offers unforgettable snorkelling and diving experiences, and just a short boat ride from the resort, a true marvel awaits.

A Thrilling Journey to the Vaavu Shipwreck

Only a 20-minute boat ride from the resort, the Vaavu Shipwreck has become an unmissable attraction for adventurers. This hauntingly beautiful site, where man-made history meets nature’s reclamation, has captivated snorkelers and divers alike. The shipwreck is easily accessible, offering a rare opportunity for those who prefer snorkelling to experience an underwater wonder.

A Ship Frozen in Time

The origins of the Vaavu Shipwreck remain shrouded in mystery. What is known is that the vessel succumbed to the forces of nature during a massive storm in 2015, coming to rest at a dramatic 140-degree angle in the shallow waters of Kuda Lagoon. Unlike deeper wrecks that require experienced divers, this site is a snorkeler’s dream, as the ship’s bow rises dramatically above the water’s surface, offering a striking visual from above.

Adam Ali, Operations Manager at Dive & Sail, shares, “What makes the Vaavu Shipwreck truly special is that you don’t need to be a scuba diver to experience it. Snorkelers can take in the entire scene from above, with crystal-clear visibility and an ever-changing marine landscape.”

The Shipwreck Transformed Into a Thriving Ecosystem

Beneath the waterline, the shipwreck has become a vibrant marine oasis. The captain’s wheelhouse and deck are draped in colourful table corals, soft corals, and sea anemones, creating a dynamic habitat. Schools of fish dart between crevices while curious eels peek out from rusted openings. The wreck is not just a remnant of human history but an evolving ecosystem where marine life flourishes.

In early 2025, however, nature continued to shape the ship’s fate. Torrential rains and relentless ocean currents flipped the wreck upside down, changing its orientation. While its mast and hull were once familiar landmarks, the ship now lies in a different position, offering new perspectives for exploration. At high tide, portions of the wreck may submerge completely, but at low tide, snorkelers can still enjoy an immersive view of this mesmerising spectacle.

How to Experience the Vaavu Shipwreck

Cinnamon Velifushi Maldives offers guided excursions to the Vaavu Shipwreck in collaboration with Dive & Sail, ensuring that both seasoned snorkelers and first-timers can safely explore this ever-evolving marvel with expert guidance. A short speedboat ride from the resort brings you to the wreck, where you can slip into the clear waters and witness the striking contrast between man-made history and nature’s reclamation.

While snorkelling above, schools of fish will weave through the ship’s skeletal remains, and vibrant corals will flourish on its rusted steel surface. Free divers can even venture closer to glide through the wreck’s passageways for a more intimate look at this submerged spectacle.

Snorkeling and Diving in Vaavu Atoll

Vaavu Atoll is often referred to as the ‘untouched paradise’ of the Maldives. With its unspoiled reefs, remote islands, and diverse dive sites, the atoll is perfect for those who wish to experience the natural world in its purest form. Its waters are teeming with marine life, from graceful manta rays and reef sharks to bioluminescent plankton that illuminates the water at night.

As the shipwreck continues to evolve with the tides and the thriving reef, it remains a captivating story of adventure and nature, waiting to be discovered.