Panettone

A gently sloping reef cut by narrow channels about 2–3 m wide, known as one of Ari's manta points, most reliable in February and March. The channels shelter divers from the current and are full of damselfish, fusiliers, dottybacks and basslets, while rainbow runners, dogtooth tuna, unicornfish and midnight snapper pass along the edge.

Facts

• Region: Maldives – North & Central Atolls
• Area: South Ari Atoll
• Level: intermediate
• Current: moderate
• Type: reef, manta
• Coordinates: 3.80213, 72.7106 (approximate)
• Highlights: manta rays, fusiliers, rainbow runners, dogtooth tuna, unicornfish, snapper, small channels in the reef
• Unverified: Position uncertain: the pin uses the coordinates of 'Kalhahandhi Huraa' (Panettone's local name per Dive The World) from a scientific survey table, which places it on the western side of the atoll, whereas Dive The World describes it as on the east coast. Depth not published.
• Tips: Use the channels as shelter from the current while waiting for mantas.

Sources

• https://www.dive-the-world.com/diving-sites-maldives-ari-atoll.php
• https://www.dive-the-world.com/posts/ari/scuba-diving-maldives-manta-ari-atoll.php
• https://www.frontiersin.org/api/v4/articles/540138/file/Data_Sheet_1.PDF/540138_supplementary-materials_datasheets_1_pdf/1