Fish Head fits the classic definition of a thila, begin a large isolated flat top reef rising sharply from the inner atoll floor at 40 to 50 metres to around 10 metres from the surface. The presence of a large school of grey reef sharks, combined with the favorable underwater scenery and the wide variety of marine life, have given this reef the reputation as being among the 10 Best Dive Sites in the WORLD.

History: Ari Atoll fishermen have traditionally fished for sharks at Fish Head and divers were first drawn here by the regular appearance of fishing dhoanis at this site. Sharks were taken mainly for their oil but with shark fins commanding high prices on the Asian market, sharks are in big demand. Ari Atoll fishermen have been reluctant to give up one of their most productive fishing grounds for the sake of diving tourists. With this backdrop of conflicting interests, the goverment stepped in, in 1995 to declare Fish Head a Protected Marine Area to ensure that it continues to cater for the expectations of divers.

Diving: The square-shaped reef is about 80 metres wide and can be circled in one dive if divers wish, providing the current is not too strong. There are ledges and caves at different depths around much of the reef and for the most part, there is a big undercut from about 25 to 30 metres before the reef tapers to the bottom slopes. The north and north west sides have a particular interesting landscape at reasonably shallow depths, making it ideal for the less experienced diver, while at depth, are caves with all the usual features including seafans and black coral bushes. Divers tend to stay more shallow at Fish Head, hovering around the reef edge at about 15 metres as this gives the best all round view of a family of about 20 resident grey reef sharks.

Sharks: The sharks are usually seen on the up-current side of the reef. The advantage that Fish Head has over other shark watching sites is that the habits of the sharks can observed at close range from a secure position on any part of the reef. On occasions, sharks can even beseen at cleaner stations where they expose their glistening teeth to the fastidious clearner wrasse. Photographers will get few better opportunities to photograph these graceful predators than at Fish Head.

Marine Life: The abundant fish life begins at the surface, where the water boils with the silver flashing of fusilier. Below, divers are greeted by a family of napoleon, one of them more than 150 cm long. There are many pelagics here including giant trevally and schooling barracuda, which circle like pack of wolves anticipating a kill. The reef has contrasting features and one favourable impression in deeper water is the straight wall on the northern side where a field of large seafans sprout from the reef edge.

Diving Hints: At times there may be several boats tied to the thila and many divers. Take note of which boat is yours and return with enough air to make a safety stop on the way up. Take care not to kick or break coral.

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