Drift diving is the most common type of diving in the Maldives . It is easy and safe when conducted properly and provides divers with the opportunity to see more fish life, coral and rock formations than could otherwise be seen. The outside reefs and channels are the staging points for these thrilling dives but care should be taken when diving in a current. Currents can change rapidly during a dive and at some locations, especially during spring tides, the dive may have to be aborted in the interest of the diver safety.

Diving with an ingoing current is generally safer than an outgoing current. If there is a strong current flowing out of the atoll, divers should take extreme care. In the past divers have been lost and drowned through not following their instructor's directions. However, improvements in safety practices and training have significantly reduced the risk of these type of accidents occurring.

If diving in a channel with a strong outgoing current, divers need to stay close to the reef and shallow on the outside corners, then swim across the reef corner away from the main current flow to the lee of the reef. This may not always be possible, such as when diving in a Thila. A knowledgeable dive-master and competent boatmen are essential at these times.

A few basic guidelines can make a dive safer and more enjoyable when diving in a current.

• Ensure you check your equipment and your buddies so you can begin your dive immediately.
• Do not stay too long at the surface when you begin you dive.
• Descend quickly to the reef.
• Never try to swim against a strong current. Stay close to the reef using your hand if necessary to pull your self along (hold only dead coral and look before grabbing the reef)
• Never dive alone and follow the buddy system procedures.
• The visibility is usually very good so do not under-estimate the distance.
• Ensure the maximum depth of 30 meters is not exceeded.
• Make all your dives no-decompression dives.