Things to See in Maldives

This is an impressive and challenging dive because of the potential for strong currents. This cargo ship hit a reef and sank in 1981 and now sits with the wheelhouse at around 15m (49ft) and the propeller at 35m (115ft). The ship's structure is almost intact and provides a home for a rich growth of new coral, sponges, tubastrea and large schools of fish.

Many of the National Museum's exhibits are things once owned by local sultans. Some of the fabrics are beautiful, especially the rich brocades. Weapons include bonthi sticks, which were used in martial arts. Especially interesting are the pre-Islamic stone carvings collected by Thor Heyerdahl and others from sites all over the country.

Hukuru Miskiiy is the oldest mosque in the country, dating from 1656. The exterior is protected by a corrugated-iron covering which doesn't look very attractive, but the coral-stone walls are intricately carved with patterns and Arabic script. The interior is superb and famed for its fine lacquer work and elaborate woodcarvings.

Also called Mushimasmingali Thila, this is one of the world's most famous dive sites. Its steep sides are spectacular, with multi-level ledges, overhangs and caves supporting sea fans, anemones and black corals. The fish life includes fusiliers, large Napoleons and schools of hungry barracuda. The main attraction, however, is the numerous grey reef sharks.

This protected marine area has a bit of everything: dramatic cliffs, caves and overhangs; brilliant coral growths; big predators such as sharks, barracuda and groper; and prolific reef fish including jackfish, morays and bluestriped snapper. It was one of the first Maldives dive sites to become internationally known. The reeftop is excellent for snorkelling.