2596_KULHUDHUFFUSHI 2.1 1 The coral island of Maldives, an independent republic is covered in this chapter. It consists of a chain of twenty six atolls which stretches fromThuraakunuisland in the Ihavandhippolhu Atoll atoll in the north to Ganisland in Addu atoll in the south. 2 The Maldive atolls are part of the long submerged mountain range that extends from the Lakshadweep, in the north, to the Chagos in the south. The Lakshadweep islands are different in structure from the Maldives. The most conspicuous fact is the absence of large atolls and the low density of reef and island structures. Most reefs have only one island on them. 3 The nomenclature described in this chapter may be in variation with Navigational Charts. The positions described to be transferred by using distance and bearing as it may show disagreement with Latitude – Longitude position. Routes 2.2 1 Vessels proceeding in an E/W direction through the Maldives and Lakshadweep have a choice of several channels. The main Channels are as follows: One and Half Degree Channel (Huvadhoo channel) (01º 30'N, 073º 20'E) KardivaKardiva Channel (Kaashidoo KanduChannel) (04º 50' .00N, 073º 10' .00E) Eight Degree Channel or Maa Ma Lee KanduChannel (07º 50'.00 N, 073º 00'.00 E) 2 Routes through these channels are also described in Ocean Passages for the World. Following channels are also available for E/W-going shipping: Equatorial Channel or Addoo KanduChannel (00º 02'.00S, 073º15' .00E) VeymandooKanduChannel(02º15’.00N, 073º25'.00E) KudahuvadhooKanduChannel (02º40'.00N, 073º15'.00E) Nine Degree Channel (09º10'.00N, 073º00'.00E) Veymandookandu channel and KudahuvadhooKandu Channel are not customary archipelagic sea lanes in the Maldives and hence these channels are not recommended for international transit passages. General Information Chart 23 General description 2.3 1 The Maldives consists of 1,192 coral islands grouped in a double chain of 26 atolls, along the north-south direction, spread over roughly 90,000 square kilometreskilometers, making this one of the world's most dispersed countries. It lies between latitudes 1°S and 7°N, and longitudes 72° and 74°E. The atolls are composed of live coral reefs and sand bars, situated atop a submarine ridge 960 kilometreskilometers long that rises abruptly from the depths of the Indian Ocean and runs north to south. 2 There are several good deep channels among the different atolls comprising the Maldives, but some channels are intricate and demand local knowledge; such channels should be avoided by low-powered vessels as currents set strongly through them, running E or W according to the season. It should be borne in mind that marked variations in the direction of these currents have been reported. 3 Although very low lying coral islands standing on the atolls may be detected by radar at ranges of more than 20 miles, the layout of individual islands can often be obtained at about 15 miles distance and the breakers near the edges of reefs are usually detected at about 2 miles. 4 The many openings through the reefs which fringe the atolls are generally deep, but difficult to distinguish beyond a distance of 3 or 4 miles at which range they appear as one continuous line to a vessel approaching them. Within 1 or 2 miles the channels will usually be seen distinctly in favourable light conditions. 5 Boat channels, on the inhabited islands, leading over the reefs to the villagesislands are marked by stakes; being kept weeded by villagers islandersand is generally distinct. 6 There are uncharted small landing platforms, piers or jetties and small harbours on many islands. It should be noted that the navigational lights for some of the places may not conform to the IALA Maritime Buoyage System (Region A). Charting 2.4 1 Many of the chartsof the Maldives are based on very old survey data. Depthson these old charts are obtained through lead line. There are many uncharted dangers exist and that the position and shapes of many of the reefs are different from those shown on the charts.Mariners are advised to exercise caution while using these old source charts. Positions 2.5 1 Satellite derived positions. Positions obtainedfrom satellite navigation systems are normally refferedreferredto WGS84. Due to the age and quality of some of the source informantioninformation for charts in Maldives, such positions may be more accurate than the charted detail, see note on the charts. ADDU ATOLL TO KUDAHUVADHOO CHANNEL General Information Charts 267,270 Area covered 2.6 1 The southern atolls andsouthern routes have been covered in this section and the routes through the area as follows: Area covered 2.6 1 The following southern atolls have been covered in this section and the routes through the area as follows: Addu atoll Huvadhoo atoll Hadhdhunmathee Atoll Kolhumadulu Atoll 2 In addition the following southern routes have also been covered in this section Equatorial Channel Oneand Half Degree Channel Veymandoo Channel Kudahuvadhoo Channel The routes West and East of the above atolls. Principal marks 2.7 1 Landmarks. There are hardly any prominent landmarks in the area covered by this section and only visible by vessels approaching an individual atoll; therefore the descriptions of landmarks will be found in the relevant part and not in the directions for the area. Passage West of atolls 2.8 1 From a position W of Addu atoll (00º38'.96S, 73º10'.00E) the passage leads direct N for about 185 miles, passing, W of Huvadhoo atoll (00º30'.00N, 73º15'.00E), then to W of Hadhdhunmathee atoll (01º55'.00N, 73º24'.00E, then to a position W of Kolhumadulu atoll (02º22'.00N, 73º07'.00E). Passage East of atolls 2.9 1 From a position E of Addu atoll (00º38’.96S, 73º10'.00 E) the passage leads direct N for about 185 miles, passing E of Foammulah Island (00º 18' S, 73º 26' E), then to E of Huvadhoo atoll (0º 30' N, 73º 15' E), then to E of Hadhdhunmathee atoll (1º 55' N, 73º 24' E), and to a position E of Kolhumadulu atoll (2º 22' N, 73º 07' E). Passage West of atolls 2.8 1 From a position W of Addu Atoll (00º38'.96S, 73º10'.00E) the passage leads direct N for about 185 miles, passing, W of Huvadhoo Atoll (00º30'.00N, 73º15'.00E), then toW of Hadhdhunmathee Atoll (01º55'.00N, 73º24'.00E, then toa position W of Kolhumadulu Atoll (02º22'.00N, 73º07'.00E). Passage East of atolls 2.9 1 From a position E of AdduAtoll (00º38’.96S, 73º10'.00 E) the passage leads direct N for about 185 miles, passingE of FoammulahIsland (00º 18' S, 73º 26' E), then toE of Huvadhoo Atoll (0º 30' N, 73º 15' E), then toE of Hadhdhunmathee Atoll (1º 55' N, 73º 24' E),and to a position E of Kolhumadulu Atoll (2º 22' N, 73º 07' E). ADDU ATOLL General information Chart 270, 2066 Position 2.10 1 Addu Atoll, previously known as Seenu Atoll, lies on the S side of Equatorial Channel and is the southernmost attol of Maldives. 2 Addu Atoll consists of the inhabited islands of Hulhudhoo, Meedhoo, Maradhoo, Feydhoo,Maradhoofeydhoo, Hithadhoo and has a number of uninhabited islands, including the island of Gan, where Gan International Airport is located. General description 2.11 1 The atoll, roughlytriangular in shape, is 10 miles E to W and 6 miles N to S.The atoll is fertile and consists of many islands and islets, lying on a barrier reef, surrounding a central lagoon which has general depths from 8 to 75 m and which provides good anchorage. 2 The barrier reef, which dries and its outer limits are only approximately charted, extendsuptoup toabout 5 cables seaward of the islands. 3 Four navigable channels lead into the lagoon: Gan channelGan KanduandViligili channelVilingili Kandu on the SE side of the atoll, andKuda channelKuda Kanduand Maa channelMaa Kandu on its N-side. 4 Gan and Viligili channelVilingili Kandus are to be preferred to the N channels, being broader and less intricate. Topography 2.12 1 The E side islands and islets are mostly covered with scrub and scattered trees whereas the S and W islands and islets are more densely wooded. Tidal streams 2.13 1 The ingoing stream sets strongly into the lagoon through Viligili channelVilingili Kandu and out of the lagoon through Gan channelGan Kandu. The outgoing stream sets out through both channels; thus, the stream through Gan channelGan Kandu is continuously out of the lagoon. In Kuda channelKuda Kanduthe sets are into the lagoon with the in-going stream and out with the out-going stream; but in Maa channelMaa Kanduit sets continuously out of the lagoon. The tidal stream in Maa channelMaa Kanduis reported to attain a rate of 5 kts. Currents 2.14 1 General. The N fringe of the Equatorial Counter-current is the main influence both near AdduAtoll atoll and in Equatorial Channel, the predominant direction appears to be E or NE throughout the year, but observations in the area are scanty and marked variations may occur.Observations suggest the current increases in strength within 50 miles from the atoll. Gan Island Air Field 2 Gan ChannelGan Kandu. The current sets strongly across the entrance to Gan ChannelGan Kandu, usually in an E direction, but after a spell of E winds a set to the SW is experienced. Tidal Levels 2.15 1 Mean spring range 0.9 m; mean neap range 0.3 m. See information in relevant tide tables. Local Weather 2.16 1 Winds. Wind direction has a seasonal pattern not conforming to that of the monsoon. NNE winds predominate in January and February backing to W in March, April, and May and to S in July and August. In September, the predominant direction veers to become W in October and November, and N by December. 2 Wind sSpeeds. AreThe wind speeds are generally below 15 knots, with greatest mean speeds in May and October. Occasional gusts exceeding 40 knots occur at any time of year inassociation with rain showers from SW or NW. Winds from E are rare and usually light. Gan Island Air Field Local Weather 2.16 1 Winds. Wind direction has a seasonal pattern not conforming to that of the monsoon. NNE winds predominate in January and February backing to W in March, April, and May and to S in July and August. In September, the predominant direction veers to become W in October and November, and N by December. 2 Wind speeds. Are generally below 15 knots, with greatest mean speeds in May and October. Occasional gusts exceeding 40 knots occur at any time of year inassociation with rain showers from SW or NW. Winds from E are rare and usually light. Southern Side of Addu Atoll Chart 2066 Gan 2.17 1 Position.Gan (0º 42'.00 S, 73º 10'.00 E), is the southernmost island of Addu Atollatoll, as well as the southernmost island of the Maldives. 2 Gan Island was formerly inhabited, but its inhabitants were moved to neighbouring islands after the British naval and airbase was built. The origin of the word "Gan" is considered from the Sanskrit word "Grama", meaning "village". Gan Island now boasts a hotel catering to tourists, and is connected by causeways to the neighboring islands of Feydhoo, Maradhoo, and Hithadhoo. 3 Function.The first airport of the Maldives was built on Gan,by the Royal Navy during the Second World War and then transferred to the Royal Airforce. It was handed over to Maldives in 1976. Presently an international airport is functioning here. The runway is orientated E/W and occupies the central part of the island. 4 Topography.The island is very fertile with Coconut and Casuarina trees on its NW side, but the S part is covered by scrub and a few trees. Gan channelGan Kandu 2.18 1 Gan channelGan Kandu is about 5 cables wide and has a least charted depth of 16.5 m in the middle and entered between the E side of the reef fringing Gan and the W side of the reef fringing Villingili, 1 mile NE. The channel gives access to the anchorage N of Gan and to the jetties on the N side of the island. Principal marks 2.19 Landmarks 1 Two blue towers ( blue, square, elevation 9m) (0º 41'.36 S, 73º 09'.11 E) stand on the N side of Gan 5 cables from its NW end; they are conspicuous from E and N, but obscured from NW. 2 Radio tower (black, lattice) (0º 41'.30 S, 73º 09'.00 E) stands among several other masts, all with an elevation of 30 m; red obstructions lights are exhibited from the tower and from some of the masts. The airfield control tower stands close WSW of the SW- most radio mast. Directions 2.20 1 Among the four channels leading into the lagoon; Gan channelGan Kandu is the broadest. Its navigation by day presents little difficulty since the reefs on each side are generally outlined by breakers. 2 The current, usually setting across the entrance and the tidal stream, always setting out of the entrance should both be allowed for. 3 The aircraft runway lights at each end of the runway are switched on when it is in use; in line they bear 098½º/278½º but have no navigational significance for ships. However, it should be noted that the flight path of aircraft using the airfield crosses the channel. Useful marks 2.21 1 A black lattice radio tower (00º41'.30S, 73º 09'.00E) stands among several other masts, all with an elevation of 30 m; red obstruction lights are exhibited from the tower and from some of the masts. 2 Tower (black, lattice, fitted with cross trees, elevation 27 m) (00º42'.03S, 73º09'.59 E); there is another tower standing close SW (elevation 30 m) which is fitted with reflector devices, the upper one being rectangular and the lower crescent-shaped. Numerous other radio masts (elevations 37 m) stand in the vicinity; red obstruction lights are exhibited from some of these masts. 3 Pier (00º42'.20S, 73º09'.30E) extending 2 cables SSEfrom the S shore of Gan is radar conspicuous. Anchorage 2.22 1 Anchorage. Anchorage in about 40m, good holding ground of coral and sand, may be obtained from 0.4 to 0.5 mile ENE of the jetties on the N side of Gan. There is very little swell here, but farther inside the lagoon it may be moderate to heavy. Ships up to 12,000 GRT anchor regularly in this area. Ships formerly anchored farther WNW, but this area is now fouled by a submarine cable. 2 Caution. An area of foul ground (sunken moorings) exists, as shown on the chart, about 7½cables NW of the anchorage; another similar foul area lies about 4 cables farther WNW in position (0º 40'.40 S, 73º 08'.54 E). A submarine power cable is laid S and W of these foul areas. Berths 2.23 1 A concrete jetty (0º 41'.21 S, 73º 08'.99 E), 136 m long and 13.4m wide, is situated about 0.3 mile E of the NW end of the island. There is a channel 15.2m wide, with a depth of 2.3m on both sides of the jetty. There is a least depth of 2.7m at the seaward end of the jetty. 2 An oil jetty, about 1½ cables ESE of the concrete jetty, extends 136 m to the edge of the barrier reef. Tankers using the oil jetty anchor off and secure the stern to moorings buoys off the head of the jetty. Port Services 2.24 1 Facilities.Hospital in village on Hithadhoo 13 km distant. 2 Supplies.Water, fuel and supplies are not regularly available. 3 Communications.International and regional connections with Male. Western side of AdduAtollatoll Chart 2066 General description 2.25 1 Several islands lie on the barrier reef which extends about 7½ miles NW from Gan(0º 42'.00 S, 73º 10'.00 E); the principal islands on the S part of this reef are described below. 2 Feydhoo (0º 41'.00 S, 73º 08'.00 E), lying close NW of Gan is thickly wooded; a ruined causeway connects it with Gan. A number of small islets lie on the barrier reef SW and W of Feydhoo. 3 MaradhooFeydhoo,the SE part of Maradhoo, lying close NW of Feydhoo to which it is connected by a causeway, is thickly wooded; Maradhoo has scattered trees and shrub near its NW end. 4 Hankede(0º 39'.35S, 73º06’.62E)’a wooded island, lying about 1 cable NW of Maradhoo is connected to it by a causeway; it is also connected by causeway NW, to a wooded isthmus extending about 1¼ miles SSE from the S end of Hithadhoo. Hankede Hajara lies on the coral reef close S of Hankede. Hithadhoo Island 2.26 1 General information. Hithadhoo (0º 36'.00 S, 73º 05'.00 E), the largest island of Addu Atoll atoll of which it forms the NW corner, is thickly wooded.Hithadhoo is the second largest inhabited island in Maldives. 2 Habitation. The part of the island south of the town is lushly vegetated with coconut trees and .shrubs, whilst the northern end of the island consists of a partially stony, unreal scrubland. Thetown is the capital and administrative centreCentreof theattolatoll. 3 Boat channel. The town is connected to the lagoon by a boat channel which is marked by a strip of clean sand on either side. 4 Boat piers. There are four small piers situated on the E side of the island, as shown on the chart. 5 Communications. A road connects Koattey (Demon Point), the NE point of Hithadhoo, with the SE end of Feydhoo (12 km SSE). Northern side of Addu Atoll Chart2066 General description 2.27 1 The outer edge of the barrier reef trends SE and E for a total of about 3¾ miles from Koattey also known as Demon Point (0º 34'.80 S, 73º 05'.30 E), to Kuda ChannelKuda Kandu; then it leads 9 cables farther E to Maa ChannelMaa Kandu. From Maa channelMaa Kandu the reef extends 5 miles ENE to Hulhumeedhoo which forms the NE island of Addoo Atoll. Kuda ChannelKuda Kandu 2.28 1 Kuda channelKuda Kandu (0º 37'.00 S, 73º 08'.30 E) gives access to the lagoon of Addu Atoll from N. It is about 2 cables wide and has least charted depth of 24 m. It is the longest and narrowest of the four channels leading into the lagoon. The channel is not easy to distinguish from N. Maa channelMaa Kandu 2.29 1 Maa channelMaa Kandu gives access to the lagoon of Addu Atoll from N, it is situated 9 cables E of Kuda channelKuda Kandufrom which it is separated by a reef upon which there are three sandy cays; the E cay, with a prominent clump of trees, is known as ChannelHuraa. The channel is about 2 cables wide and has a depth of 11 m in its SSE approach; the tidal stream sets NNW out of the channel during both the out-going and in-going streams at a rate of up to 5 kts. Useful mark 2.30 1 Channel Huraa Light (0º 36'.73 S, 73º 08'.95 E), stands on the reef on the W side of Maa ChannelMaa Kandu. Hulhumeedhoo 2.31 1 Hulhumeedhoo (0º 35'.20S, 73º 13'.80 E), the NE island of the atoll, is generally covered with bush and scattered trees except near the villages of Meedhoo and Hulhudhoo, standing, respectively, at the NW corner and at the S end of the island N of its isthmus. Eastern side of Addu Atoll Chart 2066 General description 2.32 1 The E side of the atoll consists of a number of islands and a long narrow isthmus that extends 2¾ miles S from the S end of Hulhumeedhoo. The islands and isthmus stand on a coral reef which, except for Viligili channelVilingili Kandu that gives access to the lagoon, is continuous. Vilingili 2.33 1 Viligili (0º 41'.00 S, 73º11'.56E), the SSW island of the E side of AddoouAtollatoll, stands on a detached reef; the NE part of the island is thickly wooded. A resort occupies the S part of the island.The island have the highest natural elevation in the Maldives, Mount Villingili. Vilingili Vilingili Kandu 2.34 1 Vilingili Kandu enters the lagoon of Addoo atoll from SE on the N side of Vilingili. The channel is about 4 cables wide with a least charted depth of 18.3 m in its SE approach. 2 Directions. Care should be exercised to navigate through the channel in deep water passing between Girekede, an area of foul ground extending into the channel from the NW end Vilingili, and Kanandhou Kaleyge Galha, the NW reef lying on the N side of the channel, 5 cables NE of Girekede. 3 Landmark. Palm tree (0º 39'.55S, 73º 13'.02E) stands near the E side of Mulikolhu. Vilingili Channel 2.34 1 Vilingili Channel enters the lagoon of Addoo Atoll from SE on the N side of Vilingili. The channel is about 4 cables wide with a least charted depth of 18.3 m in its SE approach. 2 Directions. Care should be exercised to navigate through the channel in deep water passing between Girekede, an area of foul ground extending into the channel from the NW end Vilingili, and Kanandhou Kaleyge Galha, the NW reef lying on the N side of the channel, 5 cables NE of Girekede. 3 Landmark. Palm tree (0º 39'.55S, 73º 13'.02E) stands near the E side of Mulikolhu. Islands north of Vilingili ChannelVilingili Kandu 2.35 1 From Vilingili ChannelVilingili Kandu the barrier reef trends NE for 7½cables to Mulikolhu, a small islet, which is generally covered with bush. 2 Gesskalhuhera, a small islet lying about 7 cables NNE of Mulikolhu is covered with trees. 3 Heretere(Herethere), is the isthmus that extends about 2½ miles N from its S point, located close N of Gesskalhuhera, to the S part of Hulhumeedhoo; it is mostly covered with bush and scattered trees. Lagoon of Addu Atoll Chart2066 General description 2.36 1 Lagoon. The fringing reef extends much farther in the NE and NW parts of the lagoon, which are encumbered with coral reefs; the NE part has not been thoroughly examined, and vessels should not approach these areas too closely. The reef fringing the islands extends about 0.5 mile into the lagoon, except in the SW corner, where it is less than 0.2 mile off Gan and Feduydhoo. 2 Reefs. Arivara (0º 38'.26 S, 73º 10'.56 E) and Medu Gaa, 6 cables S, two drying coral reefs, lie near the centre of the lagoon. Hulhuvaa Galaa, a foul area surrounded by shoal water, lies 2 cables SSW of Medu Gaa and a shoal patch with a depth of 12.8 m over it lies a farther 3 ½ cables S. Aa Galaa (0º 39'.94 S, 73º 08'.11 E), another drying reef, lies in the WSW part of the lagoon. Two shoal patches with depth 12.3 and 18.3 are located NW part of lagoon, 1.5 mile NW of Arivara. Useful mark 2.37 1 Close SE of the N extremity of Magavari, a reef which dries, a Beacon (white, pillar, about 2.4 m in height) (0º 37'.62S, 73º 06'.67E) stands in the NW corner of the lagoon. 2 Lights, not charted, are exhibited from Arivara andArivara and Medu Gaa. Submarine cable 2.38 1 A power cable is laid between the islands of Gan (0º 42'.00S, 73º 10'.00E) and Hithadhoo, 4½ miles NW off Gan, as shown on the chart. Vessels are warned not to anchor within 5 cables of this cable which carries high voltage. Anchorages 2.39 1 Anchorage, during E winds, can be taken off the W side of the E islands, and in W or S winds off the NE side of the SW islands; local knowledge is necessary. These are the most convenient anchorages for communication with the inhabitants. Swell 2.40 1 Swell may be experienced in the lagoon throughout the year but most often and most severely with W or S winds; thereby refueling alongside a tanker or loading and discharging a ship is difficult. EQUATORIAL CHANNEL General information Chart 270 Description 2.41 1 The channel between the S point of Huvadhoo Atoll atoll and Foammulah Island(00º18'.00S, 73º26'.00E) which lies about 12 and 16 miles N and S of the equator respectively is known as Equatorial Channel (Addu Channel). However the channel between AdduAtoll atoll (0º 39'.00 S, 73º 10'.00 E) and Huvadhoo Atollatoll, 46 miles N, is also referred as equatorial channel as well. Dangers 2.42 1 There are no known dangers in Equatorial Channel except for the reefs surrounding AdduAtollatoll, Huvadhoo Atoll and FoammulahIsland. Currents 2.43 1 Strong sets, both E and W, with rates up to 5½ kts have often been reported in Equatorial Channel but in its S part the E-going counter equatorial current with a rate up to about 4 kts seems to prevail. Lights 2.44 1 Lights of limited range are exhibited from both sides of Equatorial Channel. Passage directions 2.45 1 For Equatorial Channel the chart is sufficient guide. FOAMMULAH Chart 270 General information 2.46 1 Position. Foammulah is an island that lies about 20 miles NE of AdduAtoll atoll in position 0º 17'.72 S, 73º 25' .56E, is 2½ miles long and 7 cables wide fringed by a reef. 2 Topography. Being the first atoll in the Southern Hemisphere among the atolls of the Maldives, Foammulah has many distinctive features which make the island unique than the rest of the islands.The island is generally wooded. It is steep-to on its W, N, and E sides, but a shelving bank, on which the surf breaks heavily up to 7½ cables offshore, extends about 1¼ miles SE from the S end of theisland. This bank, composed of hard sand, with small coral rock is also steep-to.A domestic airport was constructed on this island in 2011. Tidal streams 2.47 1 Tidalstreams in the vicinity of Foammulah set W onWon the ebb and E on the flood, but are little felt except in retarding or accelerating the current. Principal marks 2.48 1 Landmarks: House (00º18'.2S, 73º26'.2E)(position approximate) stands near the SE corner of the island. Tower (00º16'.68S, 73º25'.14E)(position approximate) stands at the N end of theisland. Radio Mast,121 m high, position unknown,is the tallest structure in the Maldives. Useful marks 2.49 1 Light (framework tower, concrete base) (00º18'.49S, 73º25'.97E) stands near the SW corner of the island. 2 Light (framework tower, concrete base) (00º16'.70S, 73º25'.20E) is exhibited from near the tower which stands at the N end of the island. 3 Radio mast (red and white bands),not charted (reported 2004), from which obstructionlights are exhibited standing on the SW side of the island towards the S end. Other mark 2.50 1 House (red roof) (not charted) is situated about midway along the E side of the island. Anchorage 2.51 1 Anchorage can be obtained during moderate weather in 11 to 13 m on the S end of the shelving bank extending SE with utmost caution. 2 Harbour. A harbour (0º18'.55S, 73º26'.44E),open NNE,not charted at the SE end of the island.The seaward end of the entrance channel through the reef is marked by lights(lateral) 3 Facility.Medical centreCentre situated near middle ofon the island. HUVADHU ATOLLHUVADHOO ATOLL Chart 270 Position 2.52 1 Huvadhu AtollHuvadhoo atoll (00º30'.00N, 73º15'.00E) lies on the N side of Equatorial Channel and comprises of both South and North Huvadhoo Atollsatolls.The atoll is 45 miles Nto Sand35 miles E to W. General description 2.53 1 Huvadhu AtollHuvadhoo atoll is one of the largest atolls of the Maldives Group. Depths in the lagoon are greater than those in the other atolls of the group and there is less obstruction by coral reefs. There are many islets on the barrier reef and within the lagoon; some of the islets are inhabited.The atoll is the centreCentre of the mat- making industry of the Maldives. The raw material used for mat making, grows inabundance on the islets. Southern side of Huvadhoo Atollatoll 2.54 1 Description. The reef extends about 19 miles WSW to Vaadhoo Kuda ChannelKuda Kandu from the NE side of Redhdhfuttaa (00º20'.27N, 73º30'.68E) Site and facilities for the main part of the atoll's mat-making industry are situated on Gaddhoo (00º17'.43N, 73º27'.32E)Vaadhoo (00º13'.65N, 73º16'.35E) is the site of ancient mosques and burial places. The island is reported to have a harbour constructed from loose coral. 2.55 1 Lagoon entrances. There are several passages leading into the lagoon from south side of the atoll; the principal ones are described below. 2 Gan channelGan Kandu (00º15'.88N, 73º24'.54E) is about 1½ miles wide with a least charted depth of 38m islet 1½ miles NW of Gan (00º17'.00N, 73º26'.00 E) may be passed on either side but care must be taken to avoid a reef which extends about 1¼ miles SSW from it and also a low bushy island lying about 5 cables off the W side of the reef.Within the entrance of this channel the lagoon is encumbered with islandsand reefs all of which are plainly visible from aloft in a favourable light, however there is a foul area, as shown on the chart, in the middle of the fairway, a wide clearance to be given while navigating. 3 Kuda channelKuda Kandu (00º15'.29N, 73º18’.89E) is about 6 cables wide at its narrowest part with a least charted depth of 37of 37 m and enters the lagoon between Kalherehaa and Vashavarrehaa islets forming, its, its E and W entrance points of the channel 4 Vaadhoo Kuda channelKuda Kandu (00º11'.69N,73º14'.21E) is a narrow channel that enters the lagoon between two reefs. There is a least charted depth of 12.5 m at the inner end of the channel. UsefullUseful marks 2.56 1 ALight not charted is exhibited from S extremetyextremity of GanRadio mast (red and white bands) which is also not charted is located on Gadhdhoo. 2.57 1 Anchorage may be found, as shown on the chart, about 5 cables NW of Gadhdhoo (0º 17'.43 N, 73º 27'.32 E) and off GanIsland, close SW. South-western side of Huvadhoo Atoll atoll 2.58 Description. 1 The reef extends 5½ miles WNW to Fiyoaree Channel from Vaadhoo Kuda channelKuda Kandu(00º11’.69N, 73º14'.21E).From Fiyoaree channel the reef extends about 8 miles NW to Nadallaa and then to NNW for 11 miles to Kaadedhdhoo channel; this reef, forming the largest part of the SW side of the lagoon, is so densely encumbered with small islets that it appears, from some directions, as a single large island. 2 Thinadhoo (00º31'.79 N, 72º59'.93E), an islet is well wooded, very low and swampy in partsandliesabout 3½ miles N of Kaadedhdhoo channel. It is densely populated and reported to be the seat of Government of the atoll with radio communication with Male. There is a concrete wharf situated on the E side of the island; the approach to the wharf is tortuous and local knowledge is required. 3 Caution. Thinadhoo islet may appear as the N point of the atoll from SW and W because none of the low-lying islets situated farther N of it are wooded. 2.59 Useful mark: 2.59 1 Fiyoari Light, (00º13'.08N, 73º08'.35E) stands near the SE end of Fiyoariclose W of Fiyoaree channel. A Light not charted is exhibited from N side of Madaveli on S side of Kaadedhhdhoo channel. 2 Radio mast (red and white bands), not charted, from which a red obstruction light is exhibited stands on Thinadhoo.House (red roof) (not charted) is situated midway along the side of the island. 2.60 1 Lagoon entrances. In this part of the atoll Fiyoaree channel (00º12'.80N, 73º08'.72 E) is the only opening into the lagoon. Kaadedhdhoo channel (00º28'.35N, 73º00'00E), about7 cables wide, with a least charted depth of 11 m is considered the principal entrance into the lagoon on this side of the atoll. 2.61 1 Anchorage may be obtained about 1.5miles ENE of Nadallaa (00º17'.70N, 73º02'.40 E), as shown on the chart. During the SW monsoon anchorage may also be found on the E side of Hoadedhdhoo (00º26'.80N, 73º00'.28E) in depths of 49 to 64 m. Local knowledge is necessary for approaching these anchorages. 2.62 1 Landing. There is a small jetty situated on the NE side of Fiyoari (00º13'.50N,73º 08'.20E).The approach to the jetty is marked by wooden stakes. 2.63 1 Facilities. Hospital atThinadoo. 2.64 1 Communication. Thereis a domestic airport on Kaadedhdhoo (00º29'.50N,72º59'.50 E). 2.65 1 Development. In 1994 it was reported that a harbour was under construction at Kaadedhdhoo (00º29'.50N,72º59'.50E). North-western side of Huvadhoo Atoll 2.66 1 Description. The reef recedes on the NW side of the atoll, forming a bight between Thinadhoo (00º31'.70N,73º 00'.00E) and Kolamaafushi, 22 miles NNE. 2.67 1 Principal islets. On this part of the reef, Kolamaafushi (00º50'.34N, 73º11'.15E) is the principal islet. There is a boat landing at the village near the centrecenter of the E side of the islet, but the boat channel is not marked at low water; only boats of shallow draught can land here. Hithaadhoo, an islet, reported to be unhealthy, lie within the lagoon 3½ miles E of Kolamaafushi and is marked by tall luxuriant trees. 2.68 Useful mark 2.68: 1 Footuchannel Light (framework tower, concrete base,elevation 5m) (00º34'.80N,73º 02'.12E) exhibited near the end of a reef extending about 33/4 miles NE from Thinadhoo. 2.69 1 Lagoon entrances. There are numerous openings into the lagoon on the NW side of the atoll but no useful landmarks to identify them. However, a vessel might pass through one of these with a good lookout from the masthead and in favourable light conditions. The best of these openings are considered to be the ones either side of Maafushi (00º38'.63N,73º 06'.84E) or those in the vicinity of Fulangi, 6 miles ENE. The entrances on this side of the atoll are much encumbered by reefs and islets close within the lagoon. 2.70 1 Anchorage.Anchoragemay be found with Kolamaafushi (00º50'.34N, 73º11'.15E) bearing 267º distant 1 mile, in a depth of 18 m, as shown on the chart. 2.71 1 Harbour. A harbour basin, 200m by 75m, on the E side of kolamaafushi is approached through a dredged channel aligned ENE. Northern side of Huvadhoo Atoll 2.72 1 Description. Detached reefs with a few islets lying about 2 miles within the lagoon bound the N side of the atoll. Useful mark 2.73 1 Useful marks:Kaduviligili Light (00º52'.01N, 73º11'.65E) is exhibited from near the edge of kaduviligili reef which forms the SW Side Of Vilingilli Channel. 2 Kudalafari Light (00º53'.85N, 73º2l'.17E) is exhibited from near the SE end of kudalafari. 2.74 1 Lagoon entrances. There are several safe entrances through the reef on this side of the atoll, but a careful lookout is necessary as there are no islets between the two lights described at 2.78 to provide landmarks for the other entrances. Eastern side of Huvadhoo Atollatoll 2.75 1 Description. Onthe E side from Kaduhulhudhoo(Kanduhulhudhoo) (00º21'.30N, 73º32'.50E) the atoll trends 6 miles NNE then 20 miles NNW to Kooddoo. There are several openings in the reef and numerous islets standing upon it. 2 Vilingili (00º45'.25N, 73º26'.22E) lies on the N side of the opening N of Kooddoo; a small harbour is situated near the SW point of the islet.Vilingili is the capital and administrative centre for North Huvadhoo Atoll. From Vilingili the barrier reef then extends about 11 miles NNW and is impassable. 3 Maamutaa (00º50'.83N,73º24'.67E) standing on the reef, about 4½ miles from its N end, is usually the first islet seen by vessels approaching from NE. 2.76 Useful marks. 1 Light,not charted, is exhibited from S end of kaduhulhudhoo. 2 Radio mast (red and white bands),not charted,from which anobstruction light is exhibited, stands on dhaandhoo (00º37'.40N, 73º27'.84 E). 3 Radio mast (red and white bands),not charted,from which an obstruction light is exhibited, stands on vilingili. 2.77 1 Lagoon entrances. On the E side of the atoll the S-most entrance,Vaarulu channel, lies close SW of Kaduhulhudhoo (00º21'.30N, 73º32'.50E); it is about 1 mile wide with a least charted depth of 11 m. 2 There are numerous other entrances along the E face, the most northerly of which are the entrances lying N and S of Kooddoo(00º44'.20N, 73º26'.10 E). The S entrance with a least charted depth of 24 m is about 3 cables wide; the N entrance with a least charted depth of 22 m is about 2 cables wide. 2.78 1 Anchorages. Well-sheltered anchorage may be found during the NE monsoon on the W side of Nilandhoo (00º38'.15N,73º27'.00 E) as shown on the chart; a similar anchorage may also be found on the W side of Kodey,10 miles SE. Local knowledge is required for the latter anchorage 2 Harbour.There is a small boat harbour (00º38'.03N,73º26'.91E) on the SW side of Nilandhoo. 2.79 1 Landing. A wharf, constructed from loose coral, is situated on its SW side of Dhaandhoo Islet (00º37'.50N, 73º28'.00E). Other names 2.80 1 Dhiyadhoo (00º28'.60N, 73º33'.80E),an islet. Gemanafushi (00º26'.50N, 73º34'.30E), an islet. Maafehelaa (00º23'.00N, 73º33'.30E), an islet. Vodamulaa (00º36'.30N, 73º29'.40E), an islet. ONE AND HALF DEGREE CHANNEL Chart 267 Description 2.81 1 One and Half Degree Channel (Huvadhu Channel) is one of the principal routes through the Maldives for ocean-going vessels proceeding in an E/W direction and lies between the N end of Huvadhu AtollHuvadhoo atoll (00º30'.00N, 73º15'.00E) and Hadhdhunmathee Atollatoll, 52 miles N. For details of such routes see Ocean Passages for the World. Depths 2.82 1 The channel is generally free from any charted dangers and very deep. However, an area with depths of less than 1000m lies 22 miles N of Huvadhoo Atollatoll. A detached shoal with a depth of 15.5m, existence doubtful,was reported in 1963 to lie in this area in approximate positions (01º16'.00N, 73º17'.04E) Currents 2.83 1 Currents setting E, with a rate of up to 3.5 knots, have been experienced in October and November but during the NE monsoon,December to March,W set with a rate of nearly 4 knots was reported to have been experienced in the middle of the current. Passage directionsLights 2.84 1 Lights are exhibited from both sides of One and Half Degree Channel however they are of limited range. 2.85 1 The chart is sufficient guide for One and Half Degree Channel. HADHDHUNMATHEE ATOLL Chart 267 Position 2.86 1 Hadhdhunmathee Atoll atoll (01º55'.00N, 73º24'.00E) lies on the N side of One and Half Degree Channel. General description 2.87 1 Hadhdhunmathee Atoll atoll has six openings in the barrier reef surrounding it, some of which are suitable for large vessels. The lagoon is encumbered by many coral reefs, but these can be seen by a lookout at the masthead on a clear day with the sun behind. 2 The principal occupation of the inhabitants of the atoll is farmigfarming. 3 The administrative centreCentre of atoll is on FonadhooKardiva. South-western side of Hadhdhunmathee Atoll atoll 2.88 1 Description. Hithadhoo (01º48'.00N, 73º23'.50E) an island lies close NE of Mendhoo and Kunahandhoo; this group of islands, from some directions, appear as one. Hithadhoo is the atoll Chief's island and is served by a jetty. A radio mast (not charted) stands on the island.Maavah, lies near the W extremity of the atoll and is the principal island. 2 The reef from a position close E of Hithadhoo extends in a curve about 12 miles NW to a position about 1½ miles N of Maavah, to the E of it extends a small jetty. 2.89 Useful marks 2.89. 1 Kunahandhoo Light (black cylindrical day mark on position about 1½ miles N of Maayah island grey framework tower, 12 m in height) (01º46'.70N, 73º22'.44E) stands on the reef close SE of Kunahandhoo Light, not charted is, exhibited from the SE end OF Faress (01º48'.00 N, 73º17’.68E). 2 Suaroge Light (framework tower, concrete base, elevation 5m) (01º55’.07N, 73º15’.22E) stands on the N side of Maavah channel, 2 miles NNE of Maavah Island. 2.90 1 Lagoon entrances. The south opening into the lagoon lies between the reef close E of HithadhuHithaddoo(01º47’.70N, 73º23’.30E) and the reef projecting 5 cables W OF Gaadhoo,3½ miles ENE.The entrance is fronted,within the lagoon towards its W side, by three reef-fringed islets which divide the opening into two passage;Hithadhoo channel forms the W passage and; 2 Gaadhoo channel lies to the E of the islets; these passage have least charted depths of 27m and 55m respectively. There are several coral reefs lying inside the lagoon at the inner ends of each passage.Particular care is required by vessel using Hithadhoo channel where isolated reefs extend across the fairway W of the three Islets. 3 Maavah channel (01º54'.60N, 73º15'.00E) is very narrow with no recorded soundings. This entrance has previously been described as safe but its use without local knowledge is not recommended. 2.91 1 Anchorages. Convenient anchorage has been reported in 44m of depth, N of Hithadhoo (01º47'.70N, 73º23'.30E). Landing was easily made on a sandy beach after passing over the reef which extends about 183m offshore. Good anchorage, sheltered from Winds, can be found in 31 to 37m, about 1mile ESE of Maavah (01º53'.10N, 73º14'.60E). North-western side of Hadhdhunmathee Atoll 2.92 1 Description. It extends about 2 miles N from Suaroge Light (01º55'.07N, 73º15'.22 E) to Hanhushi (01º57'.10N, 73º15'.70E), then 22 miles NE to Isdhoo Kalaidhoo. The NW side of the atoll is virtually straight and mostly low. Numerous small islets stand on the reef and several boat channels pass through its NE part. 2.93 Useful mark. 1 Vadinolhu Light (grey framework tower, 5 m in height) (02º01'.29N, 73º21'.43E) stands near the NW end of Vadinolhu channeland close NNW of Vadinolhu. 2.94 1 Lagoon entrance. Vadinolhu channel (02º01'.40N, 73º21'.60E) entered close E of Vadinolhu Light and lies on the E side of Vadinolhu; the entrance is about 2 cables wide between Vadinolhu and the sandbanks on the reef to the E; depths are about 18 to 31 m in the fairway. Eastern side of Hadhdhunmathee Atoll 2.95 1 Description. There are several large islands on the S part of the reef, the largest being Gan (01º55'.00N, 073º32'.60E).Thereef extends from Gaadhoo(1º49'.00N, 073º27'.00E) 3 miles E to Fonadhoo, then it trends 19 miles NNE to the NE point of the atoll. Some of the islands are joined by a narrow causeway. On the N part of the reef there are numerous islets between Gan and Isdhoo Kalaidhoo, 10 miles N,an island which lies at the NE extremity of the atoll with two villages. Useful mark 2.96 Useful mark 1 Radio mast (red and white bands), notcharted from which an obstruction Light is exhibited, standing near the middle of fonaldhooFonadhoo. 2 Radiomast (red and white bands), notcharted from which an obstruction Light is exhibited, standing near the N end of Gan. 3 Isdhoo Light (black cylindrical day mark on grey framework tower, 12 m in height) (2º 07'.96 N, 73º 35'.21 E) stands on the NE point of Isdhoo Kalaidhoo; a stranded wreck lies on the reef S of the island, 1¼ miles SW of the light. 2.97 1 Lagoon entrances. Maabaidhoo Channel, the S entrance, is about 2 cables wide with a charted depth of 14.5 m. However there is also entrance to the lagoon close N of Maabaidhoo (2º 01'.70 N, 2º 01'.70 N,); the Fushi channel, the N entrance, is shallow. 2.98 1 Harbour.A small harbour protected by breakwaters lies on the W side of maandhoo island (1º 52'.30 N, 73º 31'.70 E). 2.99 1 Facility.Hospital situated on Gan. Kaddhoo Air Field 2.100 1 Communication.A domestic airport is there at Kaddhoo (Kadhdhoo) (1º 51'.40 N, 73º 31'.30 E) with connections to Male. 2.101 1 Harbour. A small harbour protected by break waters lies on the W side of Maandhoo Island (1º 52'.30 N, 73º 31'.70E). Other names 2.102 1 Dhabidhoo(Dhanbidhoo) (2º 05'.7 N, 73º 32'.8 E), an islet. Kalhaidhoo (1º 59'.3 N, 73º 32'.3 E), an islet. Mundoo (2º 00'.8 N, 73º 32'.1 E), an islet. Kaddhoo Air Field 2.101 1 Harbour. A small harbour protected by break waters lies on the W side of Maandhoo Island (1º 52'.30 N, 73º 31'.70E). Other names 2.102 1 Dhabidhoo (2º 05'.7 N, 73º 32'.8 E), an islet. Kalhaidhoo (1º 59'.3 N, 73º 32'.3 E), an islet. Mundoo (2º 00'.8 N, 73º 32'.1 E), an islet. VEYMANDOO CHANNEL Chart 267 Position 2.103 1 The Channel (16 miles) between the NW side of Hadhdhunmathee Atoll atoll (01º55'.00N, 73º24'.00E) and SE side of Kolhumadulu Atollatoll, 16 miles NW, is known as Veymandoo Channel. Depths 2.104 1 The channel is very deep and free from known dangers. Tidal streams 2.105 1 At springs, tidal streams in the channel attain a rate of 2 kts; this rate may vary with theprevailing current. Current 2.106 1 A set in the direction 070º with a rate of between 1¾ and 3½ kts has been experienced in October. Lights 2.107 1 From both sides of Veymandoo channel lights of limited range are exhibited. Passage directions 2.108 1 The chart is sufficient guide for Veymandoo Channel. KOLHUMADULU ATOLL Chart 267 Position 2.109 1 Kolhumadulu Atoll (2º 22'.00 N, 73º 07'.00 E),roughly circular 28½ miles in diameter, lies on the NW side of Veymandoo Channel. General description 2.110 1 There are several openings in the barrier reef surrounding Kolhumadulu Atoll atoll and there are numerous islets on its W, S and E sides but very few on the N side. An abundance of drying reefs encumbers the lagoon.The administrative centreCentre of the atoll is on Veymandhoo. Southern side of Kolhumadulu Atollatoll 2.111 1 Description. The reef trends 22 miles WSW to Vanbadi from Guraidhoo Island (2 º 19’ .48N, 73 º 19’ .05E). Number of islets stand on this stretch of reef and there are three openings into the lagoon located towards its WSW end. 2.112 Useful mark 2.112: 1 Alight not charted is exhibited from SE end of kanimeedhoo. Guraidhoo Light (grey framework tower, 5 m in height) (2º 19'.24 N, 73º 19'.02 E), stands on the reef close S of Guraidhoo. Radio mast (red and white bands),not charted,from which obstruction lights are exhibited standson Guraidhoo. 2.113 1 Lagoon entrances. There are many entrances in the lagoon, WSW of Thimarafushi (02º 12'.31 N, 73º08'.51E) as described below. 2 Fonaddoo channel has a least charted depth of 68 m lying between Thimarafushi and Fonaddoo, 8 cables WSW. A shoal area extends NE from Fonaddoo which reduces the width of the channel to about 1¾ cables. 3 Kanimeedhoo channel, about 1 mile farther W, has a least charted depth of 11 m but not recommended as there is a rocky shoal lying near the centre of the fairway. 4 About 1 mile farther W again, there is a broad deep channel between Kanimeedhoo (02º 11'.66N, 73º06'.67 E) and Veymandhoo, 1 mile WSW; but care must be taken to avoid a large coral patch with outlying rocks about 8 cables within the entrance. 2.114 1 Small craft. NW side of Thimarafushi (02º12'.31N, 73º08'.51 E) there is a small harbour, constructed from loose coral. Westernside of Kolhumadulu Atoll 2.115 1 Description. The reef trends 17 miles NNW from Vanbadi (02º11'.37N, 72º58'.39E) then 6 miles NE to Maa channelMaa Kandu. 2.116 1 Lagoon entrance. Between Hirilandhoo (2º 16'.33 N, 72º 55'.85 E) and Kadoodhoo(Kandoodhoo), 3 miles NNW lies the W opening to the lagoon. A reef, which dries in places, lying in the centre of the opening divides the entrance into two channels. Hirilandhoo Channel, the S opening, is about 6 cables wide with a charted depth of 12.5 m. Kandoodhoo Channel, the N opening, is the narrower of the two channels and has no recorded soundings hence not recommended without local knowledge. 2.117 1 Directions. By keeping well to the S or N sides of the entrance the reef in the centre of the entrance may be avoided, whilst maintaining a good lookout, for the reefs extending N from Hirilandhoo and S from Kadoodhoo. There are several islets and reefs close within the combined entrance for which a good lookout is also required. 2 Usefull marks.Light not charted is exhibited from S end of Kadoodhoo. 2.118 1 Anchorage. According to the prevailing wind, anchorages may be found on the E side of Hirilandhoo or Kadoodhoo; but care must be taken to anchor well clear of the coral reefs described at 2.117. 2.119 1 Landing. On the E side of Kadoodhoo (2º 19'.25 N, 72º 55'.02 E), there is a small wooden landing platform. The approach to the landing is tortuous but marked by tree branches set in the coral reef; a red flashing light marks the seaward end of the approach. Northern side of Kolhumadulu Atollatoll 2.120 1 Description. The reef trends 21 miles E to Vilufushi, an islet near the NE extremity of the atoll from Maa channelMaa Kandu (2º 31'.46 N, 72º58'.00 E); Vilufushi Light stands on the reef close NE of the islet. 2.121 1 Lagoon entrances. On this side of the atoll, there are number of entrances to the lagoon, the principal ones are described below. 2 Maa ChannelMaa Kandu (2º 31'.46 N, 72º 58'.00 E) a deep channel about 2½ cables wide. 3 Burunee channel (2º 33'.52 N, 73º 07'.00 E) a wide shallow channel. 4 Fushifaru channel (2º 32'.74 N, 73º 09'.59 E) a narrow channel with a reported depth of 29 m; there is a reef lying about 1 mile S of this entrance. 5 Olhugiri channel (2º 30'.47 N, 73º 15'.82 E), the E-most entrance, with a least charted depth of 9 m. 6 Usefulmarks.Light, notcharted exhibited from NE end of Buruni. Vilufushi light (2º 30’.69 N, 73º 18’.56E) 2.122 1 Anchorage may be obtained about 1 mile S of Buruni (2º 33’.55 N, 73º06’.50 E). 2.123 1 Landing. Near the mid-point of the S shore of Buruni, there is a small concrete landing platform. Eastern side of Kolhumadulu Atoll atoll 2.124 1 Description. The reef trends 10 miles N, in a shallow unbroken outward curve, to Vilufushi the NE-most island of the atoll, from Guraidhoo Channel (02º 20'.00 N, 73º20'.00 E). Dhiyamigili, an islet, stands on the NE side of Guraidhoo channel at the SW extremity of the reef, thence for 2½ miles NE there are a number of other small islets. A few small islets stand on its N part close S of Vilufushi, though Kalhufahala-fushi, a long narrow island orientated N/S, occupies the E central part of the reef. 2.125 1 Useful mark. Vilufushi Light (black cylindrical daymarkday mark on grey framework tower, 12 m in height) (02º 30'.69N, 73º18'.56E) stands near the edge of the reef close NE of Vilufushi. 2.126 1 Lagoon entrance. Guraidhoo Channel (2º 19'.85 N, 73º 19'.80 E) with a charted depth of 35m, about 8 cables wide, makes a good entrance into the lagoon; normally a tide-rip across the entrance is noticed. Other names 2.127 Gaadhiffushi (2º 15'.00 N, 73º 13'.00E), an island. Kurandhuvaru (2º 32'.00 N, 73º 11'.00 E), an island. Madifushi (2º 21'.00 N, 73º 21'.00 E), an island. KUDAHUVADHOO CHANNEL Chart 267 Position 2.128 1 The Channel between the N side of Kolhumadulu Atoll atoll (2º 22'.00 N, 73º 07'.00 E) and South Nilandhe and Mulaku Atolls atolls to the N, is known as Kudahuvadhoo Channel. The channel is 9 miles wide at its W entrance between Kolhumadulu Atoll atoll and South Nilandhe Atoll and 14½ miles wide at its E entrancebetween Kolhumadulu Atoll atoll and Mulaku Atollatoll. Depths 2.129 1 The channel is deep with no known dangers. Tidal streams 2.130 1 Tidal streams set E when in-going and W when out-going in this channel. Currents 2.131 1 Currents in this channel are uncertain in direction and have a greater rate, since they are more obstructed by nearby atolls than the channels to the S. Lights 2.132 1 From both sides of Kudahuvadhoo channellights of limited range are exhibited. Passage directions 2.133 1 The chart is sufficient guide for Kudahuvadhoo Channel. 2.134 1 TheKudahuvadhooAnisland, Kudahuvadhoo (02º40'.30N, 072º53'.60E), on the N side of the channel defines its W end.. KADAHUVADHOO CHANNEL TO KARDIVA (KAASHIDHOO KANDU) CHANNEL GENERAL INFORMATION Charts 267, 266 Area covered 2.135 1 The atolls in the central part of the Maldives have been covered in this section. These are described in two groups as West groupandEast grouptogether with the routes through the area.as follows: 2 West group. South Nilandhe Atoll North Nilandhe Atoll Ari Atoll Rasdhoo Atoll Dheburideetheree Channel Ariadhoo Channel 3 East group. Mulaku Atoll Felidhe Atoll South Male' Atoll Male' Atoll Male Vattaru Channel Fulidhoo Channel Vaadhoo Channel 4 Routes.West and east of the above atolls; central route (Hataru Alholhu Medu) a channel lying between the two groups of atolls. Atolls 2.136 1 A general description of the atolls is given at 2.4. Principal marks 2.137136 1 Landmarks. In the area covered by this section there are few landmarks and will only be seen by vessels approaching an individual atoll; therefore the descriptions of landmarks will be found in the relevant part. WEST GROUP OF ATOLLS INCLUDING CHANNELS AND DIRECTIONS Passage directions west of atolls Charts 266,267 2.138137 1 The passage leads direct N for about 125 miles from a position W of Kolhumadulu Atoll (02º 22'.00N, 73º07'.00E, passing: W of South Nilandhe Atoll (02º50'.00N, 72º55'.00E), then toW of North Nilandhe Atoll (03º12'.00N, 72º55'.00E), then toW of Ari Atoll (03º55'.00N, 72º50'.00E), then to: To a position W of KardivaKardiva channel (04º50'.00N, 73º10'.00E). SOUTH NILANDHE ATOLL Charts 267,266 Position 2.139138 1 South Nilandhe Atoll atoll (02º50'.00N, 72º55'.00E) is situated on the N side of Kudahuvadhoo Channel and is 20 miles N to S and 12½ miles E to W. General description 2.140139 1 There are many openings in the barrier reef of South Nilandhe Atoll atoll but not accessible from SW side. 2 There are many islets on the barrier reef on the E side, those in the SE part are closely grouped, but few on the barrier reef on the W side of the atoll. 3 Though encumbered with large and small coral reefs some of which dry, the lagoon is deep. The reefs are steep-to and easily discernible. Most of islets in the lagoon lie in its N part and about 3 miles within the barrier reef. 4 There are thick vegetation with many coconut trees on most of the islands. South-western side of South Nilandhe Atoll atoll 2.141140 1 Description.The island of Kudahuvadhoo (02º40'.30N, 72º53'.60E), lying near the SW point ofthe atoll, is the atoll Chief's island. A small sheltered harbour on the N side of the island is approached through a dredged channel. The reef extends unbroken W and N for a total of about 12 miles from Kudahuvadhoo. 2.142 Useful mark 2.141 . 1 Radio mast (red and white bands), not charted, from which an obstruction light is exhibited, is located on Kudahuvadhoo. 2 Bodugaa Muli Light (black cylindrical daymark on grey framework tower, 12 m in height)(02º40'.07N, 072º 52'.27E) stands near the edge of the reef at the SW point of the atoll about 1 miles W of Kudahuvadhoo. 3 A Light, not charted is exhibited from W end of Hulhudheli. 2.143142 1 Lagoon entrances. There are openings S and N of Hulhudheli (02º51'.50N, 072º 50'.80E), an island lying close N of the SW side of the atoll. The S opening, about2 cables wide between the edges of the reef, has a least charted depth of 27 m. The N opening between Hulhudheli and Maadheli Island, l½ miles NNW, is about 6 cables wide between the reefs and has least charted depth of 35 m in the fairway; this opening is better defined than the S opening. A reef extends about1 mile NE and SE from Hulhudheli within the lagoon. North-western side of South Nilandhe Atoll atoll 2.144143 1 Description. The barrier reef extends NNE and ENE in an arc between Maadheli Island (02º 53'.00N, 072º 50'.20E) and the E end of Meedhuffushi, about 12½ miles NE, there are three openings in the reef but no other islet upon it. Some islets situated inside the lagoon have trees upon them which are visible from a distance, but they lie too far within the lagoon to provide safe navigational marks; thus the approach is unsafe from NW side of atoll. 2 Restricted area. Fushi channel (03º00'.00N, 072º55'.70E) 2.145144 1 Lagoon. On the NW part of the lagoon, Ribudhoo Island(Rinbudhoo) (02º55'.50N, 72º53'.80E) and Doores lying 8 cables SW are known locally as Jewellers' Islands; its inhabitants having formerly been the Chief jewellers in Maldives. 2.146145 1 Anchorage. Comfortable anchorage can be obtained NE of Ribudhoo in swell conditions. However there is an anchorage charted SW of the island. 2.147146 1 Harbour. On the S side of Maadheli Island (02º 53'.00N, 072º 50'.20E) there is a small harbour, constructed from loose coral, and a small landing platform. Fuel and lubricants are reported to be available. South-eastern side of South Nilandhe Atoll 2.148147 1 Description. The reef extends from Eboodhoofushi ((Enboodhoofushi) (02º40'.70N, 72º55'.60E) 6 miles NE to kadimma then 16 miles N to Meedhoo, the NE point of the atoll. There are a large number of islets stands on its S part and several openings in this part of the reef. 2.149 Useful mark 2.148 . 1 A light, not charted is exhibited from E side of Madivaru Falhu and close N of Madivaru Channel. 2 Meedhoo light (grey framework tower, 5 m in height) (03º00'.15N, 73º00'.49E) stands near the edge of the reef NNE of Meedhoo Island at the NE point of the atoll. 3 Radio mast (red and white bands), not chartedfrom which an obstruction light is exhibited, stands on the Meedhoo. 2.150149 1 Lagoon entrances. There are many openings on this part of the barrier reef, the principal ones are described below. 2 Kudahuvadhoo Channel,(02º40'.36N, 72º55'.00E) the opening between Eboodhoofushi and Kudahuvadhoo, 1¾ miles WSW with a least charted depth of 16.5 m, is about1 mile wide. 3 Maiboodhoo Channel, an opening with a least charted depth of 12.5 m is about 5 cables wide and lies close ENE of Maaeboodhoo (02º41'.80N, 72º 57'.80E); an area of shoal water lies E of the fairway, as shown on the chart. 4 Vaanee Channel lies between Vaanee (2º 43'.60N, 73º 00'.20E) and Kadimma, 4 cables NE and is a narrow opening in the reef with a least reported depth of about 37 m. 5 Maalefaru Channel (2º 52'.60N, 73º 01'.30E) is a narrow opening with a least charted depth of 16.5 m; it is encumbered with rocks close within the lagoon. Madivaru Channel and Hulhuvehi Channel lie respectively, 3 miles and 1½ miles S of Maalefaru Channel; both entrances are very narrow with the coral reefs encroaching upon their inner ends. 6 Bandidhoo Maa ChannelMaa Kandu (02º 54'.80N, 073º 01'.605E) with a least charted depth of 31 m, is about 8 cables wide and free of dangers close within the lagoon. Kihafun Channel, lying 3 miles N of Bandidhoo Maa ChannelMaa Kandu, is deep and about 1 mile wide but it is divided into two channels by an unmarked shoal patch and a coral reef lying near its centre. 7 Velavaru Channel and Meedhoo Channel are narrow with reefs about I mile long on each side and enter the NE part of the lagoon, SE and NW of Meedhoo Island (02º 59'.90N, 073º 00'.40E) respectively. Other name 2.151150 1 Hiriyafushi (02º 42'.7N, 072º 59'.3E), an islet. Dheburideetheree Channel Chart 266 General information 2.152151 1 Dheburideetheree Channel (Dheburideetheree Channel) (03º 02'.00 N, 072º 56'.00E) is about 3 miles wide at its narrowest part and is deep and free from charted dangers. The channel separates South Nilandhe Atoll and North Nilandhe Atoll. The chart is sufficient guide for passage through this channel. NORTH NILANDHE ATOLL Chart 266 Position 2.153152 1 North Nilandhe Atoll (3º 12'.00N, 72º 55'.00E) lies on the N side of Dheburideetheree Channel. General description 2.154153 1 There are many openings on all sides of the barrier reef of North Nilandhe Atoll; a few islets stand on the reef, mostly on its S and E part. There are a few islets in the lagoon. The lagoon is deep, but encumbered with large and small-coral reefs some of which dries.Most of the islets are covered by coconut trees. Western side of North Nilandhe Atollatoll 2.155154 1 Description. The island of Nilandhoo (03º 03'.32 N, 072º 53'.44 E) standsnear the SW point ofthe atoll, the barrier reef extends from here 4 miles NW to Maavarufalhu. Then to the reef trends 10 miles N to the island of Himithi (03º 15'.22N, 072º 49'.06E) at which point it curves about 6 miles NE to Kadumoonufushi Reef that marks the N end of the atoll. Useful mark: 2.156155 Useful mark:1 Maavaru Light (black cylindrical daymarkday markon grey framework tower, 12 m in height) (3º 05'.27N, 72º50'.46E) stands on Maavarufalhu Reef. Maavarufalu Light A light not charted is exhibitedfrom N extremity of Himithee Falhu,on theS side of Himithee Channel. Maavarufalu Light 1 Maavaru Light (black cylindrical daymark on grey framework tower, 12 m in height) (3º 05'.27N, 72º50'.46E) stands on Maavarufalhu Reef. A light not charted is exhibitedfrom N extremity of Himithee Falhu,on theS side of Himithee Channel. 2.157156 1 Lagoon entrances. On this part of the barrier reef, there are several openings; the principal ones are described below. Nilandhoo Channel is about 8 cables wide with a least charted depth of 37m, and lies between Nilandhoo and Dharaboodhoo (Dharanboodhoo), an island standing on a reef 2 miles ENE; a shoal patch lies on the E side of the fairway adjacent to Dharaboodhoo Reef. 2 Maavaashi Channel(03º06'.89N, 072º 51'.24E ) has a wide entrance with a least charted depth of 27 m and lies between the N point of Maavarufalhu Reef (3º 06'N, 72º 51'E) and Kudafalhu, a roughly circular reef 1½ miles NNE. There is a deep, but very narrow, passage N of Kudafalhu. 3 Kuda Vshee Channel (03º14'.41N, 072º49'.22N is narrow with a least charted depth of 11 m and is encumbered by reefs at its inner end and enters the lagoon S of Himithi (03º 15'.5N, 072º 49'.2E). N of Himithi, Himithee Channel is less encumbered, and is about 8 cables wide with a least charted depth of 24 m. 4 Gaafunee Channel enters the lagoon W of Kadumoonufushi Reef (03º 19'.0 N, 072º 53'.5 E) and Fushi Channel enters the lagoon to the E of the reef, near the N point of the atoll; both channels are deep with least charted depths of 37 and 40 m respectively. 2.158 15 Landing place. A wooden jetty stands on the E side of Nilandhoo Island (03º 03'.32, 072º 53'.44E). Eastern side of North Nilandhe Atollatoll 2.159157 1 Description. The barrier reef extends, in a semi-circle, about 15 miles NNW to Kadumoonufushi Reef from the island of Magoodhoo (03º 04'.60 N, 072º 58'.00E), which is the atoll Chief's island. Several islets stand on the SE and NE parts of the reef. 2.160 Useful mark 2.158 : 1 Radio mast (redand white bands), not charted, from which an obstruction light is exhibited, is located on Fieeali. 2 Fieeali Light (grey framework tower, 5 m in height) (3º 16'.69 N, 72º 59'.70E) stands on a reef about 5 cables NW of Viligilivarufinolhu Islet. 3 A light, not charted is exhibited from W side of Maadiggaru Falhu (03º 19'.10 N, 072º 56'.90E). 2.161159 1 Lagoon entrances. On this part of the barrier reef there are several openings, from 1 to 4 miles apart, as shown on the chart. Among these narrow openings except for Miyaru Channel (03º 17'.08 N, 072º 59'.53E) which has a least charted depth of 5.5 m, all have moderate depths. The principal wide openings are described below. 2 Dharaboodhoo Channel (03º 04'.00 N, 072º 56'.40E), opening is about 7 cables wide with a least charted depth of 27 m and lies adjacent to the E end of Dharaboodhoo Island. It is free from charted dangers in the fairway and for about 2½ miles within the lagoon except for the reef on its E side. 3 Biledhdhoo Channel, is about 5 cables wide with a least charted depth of 31 m and lies 4½ miles NE of Dharaboodhoo Channel; the entrance leads to the NE side of Biledhdhoo (03º 07'.10N, 072º 59'.10E) where a boat jetty is situated. 4 Filitheyo Channel (3º 11'.93 N, 73º 02'.35E) is about 1 mile wide with a least charted depth of 35 m in its S part and lies between the N end of Maavaruhuraa Reef (03º 11' N, 073º 02' E) and Firiteyo, 1½ miles N, but there is a dangerous rock near the centre of its N part. This entrance is a restricted area. 2.162160 1 Landing place. A wooden landing platform is located on the S side of Viligilivarufinolhu (03º 16'.16 N, 073º 00'.14E). ARIADHOO CHANNEL Chart 266 Position 2.163161 1 Between the N side of North Nilandhe Atoll (03º 12'.00N, 072º 55'.00E) and the S side of Ari Atoll, 9 miles N, lies Ariadhoo Channel. Depths 2.164162 1 The channel is deep with no known dangers. Tidal streams 2.165163 1 Tidal streams, set E when in-going and W when out-going and are very strong at spring tides, these streams are periodically retarded oraccelerated by the current. Passage directions 2.166164 1 The chart is sufficient guide for Ariadhoo Channel. ARI ATOLL Chart 266 Position 2.167165 1 Ari Atoll atoll (03º 55'.00N, 072º 50'.00E) lies on the N side of Ariadhoo Channel and comprises of South Ari Atoll and North Ari Atoll, which are joined. The atoll extends about 17 miles E/W and 50 miles S/N. General description 2.168166 1 There are many islands and islets in Ari Atoll atoll most of which are situated on the barrier reef, some of these are inhabited. The traditional turtle and fishing trades are the main occupation, but more recently tourism has greatly increased, for which there are many resorts, each of which has at least one landing platform and some have breakwaters constructed with loose coral. 2 The barrier reef encircling the lagoon has no continuous long stretches of reef and there are many goodpassages through it, except for the S side of the atoll, which has only one break that affords two entrances. 3 The lagoon has many coral reefs, some of which dry, leaving small lagoons within their perimeter. Most of these dangers may be seen on a clear day with a good lookout from aloft.Spring tides influence is felt in the lagoon. 2.169 4 Caution.It has been reported that fast growing coral exists near the N end of the atoll; depths less than charted may be encountered and reefs may be joined. Mariners should not place too much reliance on the chart covering the N part of Ari Atoll on account of reported changes. Southern side of Ari Atoll 2.1670 1 Description. The barrier reef trends 11 miles WNW to Huru-elhi from Dhidhdhoo (03º 28'.87N, 072º 52'.87E), an islet lying near the SE corner of the atoll. 2.171 12 Lagoon entrances. On each side of Ariadhoo (03º 28'.36N, 072º 51'.44E) there is an entrance into the lagoon. Ariadhoo Channel, the E entrance lies adjacent to Ariadhoo. It is about 5 cables wide and has a least charted depth of 51 m in the fairway but an area of shoal water borders its E side, as shown on the chart. 23 Maamigilee Channel, the W entrance lies between Ariadhoo and the reef off Maamigilee, 1 mile W; this entrance is about 5 cables wide with a least charted depth of 48 m in the N part of the fairway. As shown on the chart, there are areas of shoal water lying on each side of the fairway. 34 Except for shoal patches near the N side of the barrier reef, within the lagoon there is deep water between the barrier reef and the inner-charted reefs. 5 Useful marks. A light, not charted is exhibited from the reef on the W side Maamigilee Channel. Western side of Ari Atollatoll 2.172168 1 Description. The barrier reef trends from Huru-elhi (03º 32'.63 N, 072º 43'.02 E) 44 miles N to Gaha Faru, the crescent-shaped reef forming the N end of the atoll with a similar shaped reef lying about 1 mile SE of it. 2 The barrier reef has many large reefs, some of them enclosing lagoons within their perimeter; they are situated between generally wide and deep openings which lead into the lagoon. 2.173169 1 Principal islets. On this side of the atoll the main islets are Mandhoo (03º 41'.81 N, 072º 42'.42 E), Himendhoo, 13½ miles N of Mandhoo, with Maalhos and Feridhoo, respectively, 4 and 8 miles farther N. 2.174170 1 Useful marks: Rangali Light (03º 35'.94 N, 072º 42'.98 E). Gangehi Light (04º 13'.12N, 072º 45'.35E) standing on an islet near the SE extremity of Gaha Faru.2 A light, not charted is exhibited from W side of reef upon which Himendhoo lies.Another light, not charted is exhibited from W side of Mathiveri. 2.175171 1 Lagoon entrances. The two main entrances to the lagoon lie S and N of the reef on which Mandhoo (03º 41'.81 N, 072º 42'.42 E) stands. Mandhoo Dhekunu Channel, the S entrance, is about 2½miles wide with a least charted depth near the centre of the fairway of 31 m but lesser depths are recorded on each side; Mandhoo Uthuru Channel, the N entrance, is about 2 miles wide with a least charted depth near the centre of the fairway of 14.5 m. 2 Malhohu Dhekunu Channel, is a wide and deep entrance that is free from charted dangers in the fairway and for about 2 miles within the lagoon and lies16 miles N of Mandhoo. Other safe, both wide and narrow, entrances are shown on the chart. 3 A restricted area has been established in entrance (03º 35'.70 N, 072º 43'.10 E), between Faru huruvalhi and rangali. 2.176172 1 Anchorage can be obtained about 2 miles ENE of Mathiveri (04º 11'.43 N, 072º 44'.79 E). Vessels anchoring should keep well clearof the isolated rocks lying S and W of the deep water. Eastern side of Ari Atollatoll 2.177173 1 Description. The barrier reef trends, from Dhidhdhoofinolhu (03º 29'.73 N, 072º 53'.90 E) an islet lying near the SE corner of the atoll which provides a tourist resort, 7½miles NNE to Dhagethi(Dhangethi); there after 31 miles N to Beyrumadivaru, from where a chain of small reefs extends a further 9½ miles NNW to Gaagandu, an islet near the N end of the atoll. 2 The barrier reef has a number of small reefs, several enclosing lagoons within their perimeter; they are situated between generally narrow but deep openings, mostly about 1 mile apart, which lead through the reef into the lagoon. 2.178174 1 Principal islands. On this side of the atoll the main islands are Dhigurah (03º 31'.83 N, 072º 55'.89 E), a tourist resort; Dhagethi, 4½ miles NNE of Dhigurah; with Mahibadhoo and Omadhoo lying, respectively, a farther 9 and 11 miles N. Each of the three latter islands have breakwaters. 2 An islet, Ukulhas (04º 12'.84 N, 072º 52'.02E), located within the lagoon near its N end, has a good channel on its W side that leads S towards the centre of the lagoon. Useful marks: 2.179175 Useful marks: 1 Radiomast (red and white bands), not charted, from which an obstruction light is exhibited, stands on Dhagethi. A light not charted is exhibited from the NE extremity of Huravali Falhu (03º 40'.86 N, 072º 58'.62 E). 2 Radiomast (red and white bands), not charted, from which an obstruction lights is exhibited, stands on Mahibadhoo. A light not charted is exhibited from the SE extremity of Kudadoo Faru (03º 48'.56 N, 072º 58'.17 E). 3 Bathalaa (4º04'.07 N, 72º57'.09 E); an obstruction light (not charted) but visible from about 12 miles was reported to be exhibited from a radio mast that stands on the islet. 4 Fushi (04º 12'.77 N, 072º 53'.21 E); a sand bank in the vicinity of this islet was reported to be radar conspicuous. 2.180176 1 Lagoon entrances. The widest entrance into the lagoon on this side of the atoll, the Dhigurashu Channel (03º 34'.12 N, 072º 56'.93E) lies N of Dhigurah (03º 32' N, 072º 56' E); it is generally shallow, with an isolated rock, but has a least charted depth of 6.5 m in the narrow fairway at its N end close to N of the rock. 2 Several other entrances throughout the barrier reef are generally narrow compared to those entering the lagoon from the W side. However, the named charted entrances are reported to be safe provided alocal knowledge and a good lookout. 2.181177 1 Landing place. Hangnaameedhoo (03º 50'.79 N, 072º 57'.75 E) provides small crafts berths on its N and S sides.2 Caution. A strong current sets in through Hangnaameedhoo Dhekunu Channel, the channel passing S of Hangnaameedhoo. Small craft may be encountered; a small marina has been established on mushimasgali Mushimasgali (03º 57'.44 E, 072º 55'.03E). 2.182178 1 Restricted areas have been established, on the E side of Ari Atoll: Close SE of kudarah Kudarah (03º 34'.27 E, 072º 54'.91E) 2 Below-water reef, not charted, (position approximate, (03º 56'N, 072º 55'E) N side of Orimas Faru (03º 58'.57 E, 072º 57'.39 E) 3 S end of below-water reef, not charted position approximate (04º 05'N, 072º 51'.5 E) ISLANDS AND REEFS NORTH-EAST OF ARI ATOLL Chart 266 Rasdhoo Atoll 2.118379 1 Description. By a submarine plateau which has a least charted depth of 183 m, Rasdhoo Atoll (04º18'.00 N, 072º 59'.00 E) is connected with the NE part of Ari Atoll, 5 miles SW. The lagoon of the atoll is deep but has many coral reefs and several isolated rocks. For administrative purposes, Rasdhoo Atoll Atoll is part of Ari Atoll. 2.184180 1 Islets. On the S side of the atoll, Rasdhoo (04º 15'.80 N, 073º 00'.00 E) and Kuramathi, 5 cables WSW are the tourist resort; Veligadu, 2½ miles NNE of Rasdhoo, is also a tourist resort. 2.185 Useful mark 2.1851 : 1 A red light is exhibited from a mast standing on the E end of Kuramathi. 2 Radio mast (red and white bands), not charted, from which obstruction lights are exhibited, stands on west side of Rasdhoo. 2.186182 1 Lagoon entrances. With local knowledge, the opening between Rasdhoo and Kuramathi, 5 cables WSW, can be used by vessels. There is one other opening, about 1 mile NNW of Veligadu (04º 17'.95N, 073º 01'.11E), which is generally shallow and local knowledge is required. Thoddoo 2.187183 1 Partially wooded, Thoddoo (04º 26'.20N, 072º 57'.70E), an isolated island which may be visible at a considerable distance. A reef extends about 6 cables from its W side. 2 Useful mark: light, not charted is exhibited from W side of the island. CENTRAL ROUTE Passage directions for Hataru Alholhu Medu Chart 266 2.188184 1 The route leads from the vicinity of 02º 40'.00 N, 073º 11'.00 E, about 120 miles N through Hataru Alholhu Medu and then to between the atolls of the West Group and the East Group toKardivaKardiva channel. The central channel is about 18 miles wide, deep and free from charted dangers; it is mostly sheltered from ocean swell. The chart is sufficient guide for this route. EAST GROUP OF ATOLLS INCLUDING CHANNELS, DIRECTIONS AND THE PORT OF MALE Passagedirections east of atolls Charts 266,267 2.189185 1 The passage leads direct N for about 160 miles, from a position E of Kolhumadulu Atoll (02º 22'.00 N, 073º 07'.00 E), passingE of Mulaku Atoll (03º 00'.00 N, 073º 30'.00 E), then to: 2 E of Felidhe Atoll (03º 30'.00 N, 073º 30'.00 E), then toE of South Male Atoll (04º 00'.00 N, 073º 27'.00 E), then toE of Male' Atoll (04º 25'.00 N, 073º 30'.00 E), then to, a position NE of Male' Atoll. MULAKU ATOLL Charts 266,267 Position 2.190186 1 Mulaku Atoll Atoll lies on the N side of Kudahuvadhoo Channel. Male Island General description 2.191187 1 Mulaku Atoll Atoll has several islets of which all except one lie on the barrier reef; most of the larger islets are situated on the E and SE sides of the atoll.The lagoon is deep, has sandy bottom, but encumbered with numerous small coral reefs and rocks. 2 Fishing is main occupation of the inhabitants of the atoll. South-eastern side of Mulaku Atoll 2.192188 1 Description. The reef extends from the S extremityof the atoll, about 2 miles SW of Dhiththudi (Dhiththundi )(02º 46'.00 N, 073º 25'.30 E), 12 miles NE to Hakuraahuraa, then to 15 miles NNE to Raiymandhoo (03º 05'.37 N, 073º 25'.30 E), which lies about 1 mile SW of the NE point of the reef; on the E side of this islet, a jetty has been constructed, from wood and coral. On this side of the atoll, the barrier reef is virtually continuous with just one opening near its mid pointmid-point. 2 Principal islands Kolhuvaariyaafushi (02º 46'.60 N, 073º 25'.50 E) and Muli, 12½ miles NE of Kolhuvaariyaafushi are main islands on this side of the atoll; Muli Island is the atoll Chief's island and administrative centre. Boli Mulah (02º 56'.80 N, 073º 35'.10 E) is the largest islet of the atoll, lies on its E side close within the lagoon. On the NE side of the islet aconcrete jetty has been constructed. 3 Restricted areas. Centred on dangerous rock 2 miles W of Boli Mullah. 2.193 Useful marks 2.19389 : 1 Dhiththudi Light (grey framework tower with black cylindrical daymark, 12 m in height) (02º 45'.83 N, 073º 25'.34 E). Radio mast (red and white bands), not charted, from which obstruction lights are exhibited, stands on Kolhuvaariyaafushi (02º 47'.00 N, 073º 25'.50 E). 2 Raiymandhoo Light (grey framework tower with black cylindrical daymark, 12 m in height) (03º 05'.3 N, 073º 38'.4 E). A light, not charted is exhibited from Boahuraa (02º 55'.40 N, 073º 34'.90 E) 3 Radio mast (red and white bands), not charted from which an obstruction light is exhibited, stands on Raiymandhoo. 2.194190 1 Lagoon entrance. Between Muli (02º 55'.40 N, 073º 34'.90 E) and Veyvah, 2 miles NNE,Mulee Channel and Mulah Channel occupy the same entrance into the lagoon. Mulee Channel, the S part of the opening provides the principal fairway; it has a charted depth of 5.5 m but is narrowed, to about 6 cables wide, by reefs extending N from Muli and S from Boli Mulah, 1 mile N. The Mulah Channel, N part of the opening, is very narrow and tortuous. 2.195191 1 Landing. Recommended landing places are on W side of Kolhuvaariyaafushi (02º 46'.60 N, 073º 25'.50 E) and on the chain of islets lying close N; the nearest entrance into the lagoon is about 3½ miles W of the islets. 2 Supplies: local products and small quantity of fresh water are obtainable in a village situated on the N side of Boli Mulah (02º 56'.80 N, 073º 25'.50 E. Western side of Mulaku Atollatoll 2.196192 1 Description. The barrier reef extends 25 miles N to Fenbofinolhufrom the S extremity of the atoll, about 2½ miles SE of Kurali (02º 46'.70 N, 073º 22'.40 E), 2 The barrier reef has a number of large and smallreefs situated between narrow, but generally deep, openings, which lead into the lagoon. Useful marks: 3 A light, not charted is exhibited from N side of thuvaru.Another light not charted is exhibited from NW corner of barrier reef 1 mile SW of Fenbofinolhu (03º 10'.00 N, 073º 23'.84 E), 2.197193 1 Lagoon entrance. With a least charted depth in the fairway of 59 m, Thuvarudhekunu Channel, enters the lagoon close S of Thuvaru (02º 53'.80 N, 073º 22'.80 E), and forms a good but narrow channel. However, there are coral reefs lying just within the entrance that require careful avoidance. Northern side of Mulaku Atoll 2.198194 1 Description. The barrier reef extends from the NW corner of the atoll (03º 10' N, 073º 23' E) 5 miles E, then to 8 miles SE and 4½ miles E, to the NE extremity of the atoll; the reef along this side is almost continuous. 2 On this part of the reef there are three islets, Gaahuraa (03º 08'.70 N, 073º 31'.20 E) with Dhiggaru and Maduvvari lying, respectively, 3½ and 4 miles SE of Gaahuraa. A lighthouse (not charted) was reported on Dhiggaru. 3 EnterancesEntrances into the lagoon from N are very narrow, difficult to distinguish and tortuous; local knowledge is required before a transit is made. 4 Useful marks: A light, not charted is exhibited from edge of reef close NE of Dhiggaru. Raiymandhoo light (03º 05'.37 N, 073º 38'.39 E) VATTARU CHANNEL Chart 266 Position and description 2.199195 1 Between the N side of Mulaku Atoll and the S side of Felidhe Atoll, 7½ miles N, lies Vattaru Channel; it is divided into two channels at its W end by Vattaru Falhu these channels are about the same width but the S channel has a deeper charted depth. Depths 2.200196 1 There are no known dangers in the main channel and the channels on each side of Vattaru Falhu and the channels are deep. Sea conditions 2.201197 1 Currents and tidal streams are reported to be strong; a heavy swell from E, generally builds up a dangerous sea off Vattaru Falhu. Useful marks 2.202198 Rakeedhoo (3º 18'.90 N, 73º 28'.20 E), the S islet of Felidhe toll. Passage directions 2.203199 1 The chart is sufficient guide for Vattaru Channel. Vattaru Falhu 2.204200 1 Centrally located, in the W part of Vattaru Channel, Vattaru Falhu (03º 15'.00 N, 073º 26'.00 E) forms a small atoll. On the S side of the atoll there is a single opening into the lagoon, through which boats may pass. Vattarurah Islet marks the E entrance point. The entrance to the lagoon is a restricted area. FELIDHE ATOLL Chart 266 Position 2.205201 1 Felidhe Atoll (03º 30'.00 N, 073º 30'.00 E) lies on the N side of Vattaru Channel. General description 2.206202 1 Felidhe Atoll comprises of many islets most of which lie on the barrier reef on the NE side of the atoll. 2 The lagoon is encumbered in its W part with numerous small coral reefs and rocks; the narrow E part of the lagoon is less cluttered; however the lagoon is deep. Making fishing nets is the main occupation of the inhabitants of the atoll. South-eastern side of Felidhe Atoll 2.207203 1 Description. The barrier reef, unbroken in this parts, extends from Rakeedhoo Channel, the very narrow opening into the lagoon situated close E of Rakeedhoo (03º 18'.90 N, 073º 28'.20 E), about 17 miles ENE then 8 miles N to Fotteyo(Foththeyo) Muli. 2.208204 1 Principal islets. Bodumohoraa (03º 20'.62 N, 073º 31'.21 E), and Foththeyo-bodufushi, 16 miles ENE, lying about 1 mile W of the E extremity of the reef, are the principal islets on this side of the atoll. 2.209205 Useful marks: 1 Stranded wreck (03º 21'.43 N, 073º 35'.13 E) lies on the reef close SSW of Hingaahuraa Islet. 2 Fotteyo Light (grey framework tower with black cylindrical daymarkday mark, 12 m in height) (03º 27'.73 N, 073º 45'.57 E) stands on the reef close NE of Foththeyo-bodufushi. North Eastern side of Felidhe Atoll 2.210206 1 Description. The barrier reef extends from Fotteyo MuliFoththeyo Muli (03º 30'.20 N, 073º 44'.40 E) about 11 miles WSW to Kashavaru Falhu; then it trends 14 miles NNW and 7 miles WNW to Fulidhoo; this latter islet is well wooded. 2 There are a few openings into the lagoon between Fotteyo MuliFoththeyo Muli and the head of the bight near Kashavaru Falhu but these are very narrow and without landmarks; thus this part of the barrier reef is virtually a continuous single reef. Then to, from the head of this bight towards the N part of the atoll there are a number of openings, but in general, the whole face of this side of the atoll may be considered as a continuous reef. 3 During the NE monsoon, a heavy swell sets directly upon the area described above. The tidal streams and currents in this vicinity are strong. Keyodhoo Islands(Towers) 2.211207 1 Principal islands Keyodhoo (03º 27'.76 N, 073º 32'.93 E), with Felidhoo and Thinadhoo, 6 cables and 1¾ miles NNW respectively, and Alimathaa ,a farther 6¾ miles NNW, are main islands on the barrier reef on this side of the atoll. Felidhoo is the atoll Chief's island. On the S side of the islands of Felidhoo and Alimathaa, there are small jetties. 2.212208 Landmark: 1 A conspicuous clump of trees stands at the centre of Fulidhoo (03º 40'.80 N, 073º 24'.90 E). 2.213 Useful mark 2.209213. 1 Radio mast (red and white bands), not charted, from which obstruction lightsare exhibited, stands on Felidhoo. 2 Fulidhoo Light (03º 40'.9 N, 073º 25'.1 E) (grey framework tower with black cylindrical day mark, 12 m in height). 2.214210 1 Lagoon entrances-cautions:.On this side of the atoll, entrances into the lagoon should be used with considerable care when even local knowledge is available. 2 Most of the ENE-facing entrances are tortuous and exposed to the NE monsoon; those on the N side are shallow with isolated dangers and dangerous breaking seas may be experienced. 3 With a least charted depth of 20 m, Dhiggiri Channel (03º 38'.80 N, 073º 30'.00 E) is about 3 cables wide, but it is encumbered with shoal water and reefs at its inner end. 2.215211 1 Restricted areas has beenestablished in Miyaru channel (03º 34'.80 N, 073º 30'.00 E) South-western side of Felidhe Atoll 2.216212 1 Description. The barrier reef trends from Rakeedhoo (03º 18'.90 N, 73º 28'.20 E), about 15 miles NW to Fussaru Falhu, the W point of the atoll. 2 The barrier reef has several large and small reefs situated between narrow openings which lead into the lagoon, their identification becomes difficult as there are no landmarks to aid. 2.217213 1 Lagoon entrance. Lying between Rakeedhoo (3º 18'.90 N, 73º 28'.20 E) and Maagulhi Falhu, 1½miles NW, Maagulhi Channel, is about 4 cables wide with a least charted depth of 59 m; there is an area within the lagoon, free from charted dangers for about 2½ miles in a NE direction. Northwestern side of Felidhe Atollatoll 2.218214 1 Description. The barrier reef trends from Fussaru Falhu (03º 28'.50 N, 073º 16'.50 E), the W point of the atoll, about 15 miles NE to the reef extending W from Fulidhoo. 2 The barrier reef has a number of large and small reefs situated between openings to the lagoon, these openings are not easily seen. 2.219 Useful marks 2.2195 : 1 Fussaru Light-beacon No 2 (grey framework tower, 5m in height (03º 30'.69 N, 073º 17'.10 E) stands on an islet close N of Fussaru Falhu. Fulidhoo light (03º 40'.86 N, 073º 25'.09 E) 2.220216 1 Lagoon entrances. On this side of the atoll, there are several entrances into the lagoon. However, the entrances are generally narrow and some are encumbered with reefs; many have shallow water either in the entrance or close within the lagoon. FULIDHOO CHANNEL Chart 266 Position 2.221217 1 The channel between the N side of Felidhe Atoll (03º 30'.00 N, 073º 30'.00 E) and the S side of South Male Atoll, 7½ miles N, is known as Fulidhoo Channel. Depths 2.222218 1 The channel is deep with no known dangers. Tidal streams 2.223219 1 Very strong tidal streams, especially at spring tides, set E when in-going and W when out-going. These streams are periodically retarded or accelerated by the current. Passage directions 2.224220 1 The chart is sufficient guide For Fulidhoo Channel. SOUTH MALE ATOLL Charts 266 Position 2.225221 1 South Male Atoll (04º 00'.00 N, 073º 27'.00 E) lies on the N side of Fulidhoo Channeland is 19½ miles long N to S and a max of 10 miles wide. General description 2.226222 1 South Male Atoll has a number of islets, of which most lie on the barrier reef along the E side of the atoll; almost all of them are wooded with many coconut trees. 2 The lagoon is deep but encumbered with coral reefs; however, these may easily be avoided in a favourable light condition with a good lookout from aloft. Tourism is the principal occupation. Eastern side of South Male Atollatoll 2.227223 1 Description. The barrier reef extends from the S point of the atoll (03º 49'.00 N, 073º 23'.00 E), about 4 miles ENE then 4½ miles N to Guraidhoo. The reef is continuous from its S point to the opening close S of Guraidhoo; several small islets lie on this stretch of reef. 2 Further, the barrier reef trends 13½miles NNE to Finolhu Falhu, the NE point of the atoll on the N of Guraidhoo. The reef has several large and small reefs, with a few islets and some sandbanks, situated between openings into the lagoon. 2.228224 1 Principal islets. On the S part of this side of the atoll, the principal islets are the tourist resorts of Mahaanahuraa (03º 48'.70 N, 073º 24'.65 E) with Olhuveli, Kudafinolhu and Maadhoo situated between 3½ and 4½ miles NE of Mahaanahuraa. 2 The largest island of the atoll on its N part, is Maafushi (03º 56'.50 N, 073º 29'.40 E). Gulhi, situated 3 miles NNE of Maafushi, is reported to have a slipway suitable for vessels up to 50 tonnes but the approach to it is tortuous. 3 Viligilivaru and Biyaadhoo, both tourist resorts, within the lagoon, lie about 2½ miles SW of Maafushi. 2.229225 1 Lagoon entrances. Entrance channel into the lagoon, lie about 5 cables NE of Guraidhoo (03º 54'.00 N, 073º 28'.00 E); a least charted depth of 27 m is recorded in the narrow fairway which is about 1¼ miles long. The channel leads to the tourist resorts of Viligilivaru and Biyaadhoo. 2 With least charted depth of 20 m, Enboodhoo Channel leads into the N part of the lagoon about 1 mile S of Eboodhoofinolhu (Emboodhoofinolhu) (04º 06'.20 N, 073º 31'.45 E). This entrance is very narrow, and should be used with caution. The islet of Eboodhoo lies close within the lagoon, on the line of the fairway, the deep-water passage lies on the N side of the islet. 3 There are several other charted entrances but these, although in some cases wider, are generally shallow or obstructed. 2.230226 1 Landing places. There are jetties located on the N side of Kadoomaafushi (03º 54'.16 N, 073º 28'.40 E) and on the W sides of Eboodhoofinolhu and Olhuveli. Northern side of South Male Atoll 2.231227 1 Description. From Finolhu Falhu (04º 07'.20 N, 073º 31'.60 E), the NE point of the atoll, the N side of the atoll extends about 8 miles W to its NW point. There are some sandbanks on the E part of the barrier reef. 2 Vaadhoo (04º 07'.44 N, 073º 27'.40 E) and Velassaru, about 1¼ miles W of Vaadhoo, are the islets on the W part of this side of the atoll. 2.232228 1 Lagoon entrances. Between Vaadhoo and Velassaru lies Velassaru Channelolhi, the widest opening; the channel is about 7 cables wide with a least charted depth of 14 m, however, a least depth of 8 m has been reported to exist in the fairway. 2 Vaadhoo Channelolhi, is a narrow opening, on the E side of Vaadhoo. Western side of South Male Atoll 2.233229 1 Description. The barrier reef extends from the S point of the atoll (03º 48.50' N, 073º 24'.00 E), in a shallow outward curve,18½ miles N to Velassaru Falhu the NW point of the atoll. 2 The barrier reef has a number of large and small reefs situated between lagoon entrances which vary from wide to narrow and deep to shallow. 3 Along this side of the atoll, there are several islets spaced from Rihiveli (03º 49'.06N, 073º 22'.53 E),to Bolifushi 16¼ miles N. Tholhimarahuraa (03º 49'.49 N, 073º 22'.46 E) is reported to be nearly submerged at high water, Vaagali, 7½ miles N of Tholhimarahuraa, is remarkable for a bush-covered sandbank extending from its W side. There is a jetty on Bolifushi. 2.234230 Useful mark: 1 Radio mast (red and white bands), not charted from which an obstruction light is exhibited, stands on Fihaalhohi (03º 52'.58 N, 073º 22'.00 E). 2 A light, not charted is exhibited from W extremety of Velassaru Falhu. 2.235231 1 Lagoon entrances. At the S end of the atoll the channel of Hathikolhu enters the lagoon between the reef forming the SE side of the atoll and the reef surrounding Rihiveli, 7 cables W; the channel is 4 cables wide with a least charted depth of 37 m in the fairway which lies towards the NW side of the opening. Vaadhoo Channel Chart 266, 227 General information 2.236232 1 General description. Vaadhoo Channel (04º 09'.00 N, 073º 28'.00 E) lies between South Male Atoll and Male Atoll; the channel is about 2¼ miles wide at its narrowest part. The channel is deep and free from charted dangers, however, there are some rocks and reefs on each side, near the N side. 2 Caution. The area S of male’ atoll is unsurveyed. 3 Tidal stream and current. There are very strong tidal streams in the channel; the in-going stream sets E and the out-going W. During the monsoons the stream is accelerated by the prevailing current, setting W during the NE monsoon and E during the SW monsoon attaining a rate of up to 4 kts and causing severe tide-rips. MALE ATOLL General information Chart 227, 266, 2061 Position 2.237233 1 Male Atoll (04º 25'.00 N, 073º 30'.00 E) lies on the N side of Vaadhoo Channel and is 32½ miles N to S and a maximum of 22 miles wide. General description 2.238234 1 Male Atoll atoll is the principal atoll of the Maldives and comprises of about 50 islets and islands. The lagoon is encumbered with coral reefs, and deep; the reefs, as a rule, is easily discernible in favourable conditions of sun and sea; the bottom, except over the coral reefs, is coarse sand. 2 On the E of Male Atollatoll, the seabed shelves steeply to depths of 2000 m; to the W it shelves less steeply to depths more than 300 m. Tourism is the principal occupation. Restricted areas 2.239235 1 Restricted areas, lyingwithin male’ atoll are situated as follows: Unnamed drying reef (04º14'.36 073º31'.94 E) Unnamed shoal (04º17'.26 N, 073º32'.00 E) Unnamed 6.6 m (04º18'.70 N, 073º34'.72 E) in himmafushee kandu. Seaward of Rasfari S side of himmiya falhu S side, towards the W end of an unnamed atoll (04º 11'.21 N, 073º 26'.17 E) S side of Gulhi Falhu Unnamed 3.4 m shoal (04º12'.52 N, 073º 24'.49 E) South-eastern side of Male Atollatoll Chart 266,227, 2061 Description 2.240236 1 The barrier reef trends from HululeHulhule (04º 11'.4 N, 073º 31'.7 E) about 19 miles NE to Meerufenfushi, the E-most islet of the atoll. The reef comprises a number of large reefs and is sharply marked by change of water colour or, in swell conditions, by breakers upon it. With several openings into the lagoon from this side of the atoll, there is a chain of islands spaced along the entire length. Principal islands and islets 2.241237 1 Most of the islands and islets on this side of the atoll, are wooded, and are described below: Hulhumale’ (04º 12'.80 N, 073º 32'.40 E)Farukolhufushi (04º 13'.90 N, 073º 32'.70 E) is a tourist resort with a large lagoon extending SSW from the W side of the island. A channel into the above lagoon, suitable for vessels with a draught of less than 2m, has been constructed W of the island; the channel is orientated 110º/290º and it is marked, at its E and W ends by lights exhibited from grey beacons, in accordance with the IALA Maritime Buoyage System (Region A). The channel lies close N of the charted mole (04º 13'.8 N, 073º 32'.2 E); this mole has sand washed against its N side which is permanently dry with small bushes growing on it. 2 Furanafushi (04º 15'.00 N, 073º 32'.80 E) is a tourist resort. It has a small lagoon off the W side of the island which is entered at the SW corner of the fringing reef; the channel into the lagoon is marked by posts. Within the lagoon there are depths up to 9 m, with a bottom of sand and coral heads, which provides good anchorage for yachts and small craft. There is a stone jetty on the W point of the island and a breakwater encloses its SW part. 3 Kaduoiygiri(Kanduoiygiri) (04º 15'.50 N, 073º 32'.45E), 1½miles N is a tourist resort. Lankanfinolhu (04º 17'.00 N, 073º 33'.25 E ), 3¼ miles N is a tourist resort with a harbour on the W side approached through an unmarked artificial gap in the reefs, ¼ cable wide. 4 Lankanfushi (4º 17'.64 N, 73º 33'.46E) 4 miles NNE, a low islet, is a tourist resort. Himmafushi (04º 18'.60 N, 073º 34'.30E), 5 miles NNE is the prison island.Landing is strictly forbidden. A small harbour facility has been built on the W side ofthe island. 2.242238 1 Girifushi (04º 19'.15 N, 073º 34'.61 E), 5½ miles NNE, there is a military training centre on the island and entry is restricted. A ricochet danger area, W of the island, is placed out of bounds during live firings; a red flag is flown at the W tip of the island when this firing is in progress. Thaburudhoo, situated close E of Girifushi, is another military training centreCentre to which access is also restricted. 2 Huraa (04º 20'.00 N, 073º 36'.00 E) miles NNE is a tourist resort with a breakwater extending NW from its W side. Kanifinolhu (04º 20'.60 N, 073º 36'.40 E) 7¾ miles NNE), is a tourist resort with a breakwater extending NW from its W side. Lhohifushi (04º 21'.00 N, 073º 37'.00E), 8½miles NNE, is a tourist resort. A Government coconut seed experimental farm is situated on the island. 3 Thulusdhoo (04º22'.50 N, 073º 39'.00 E) 10½ miles NE, is a tourist resortand the administrative centreCentre for male’ Atoll atoll.and a tourist resort. Viligilimathidhahuraa (04º22'.70 N, 073º 39'.75 E), 11¼ miles NE, is an islet covered with bush and some palms. Dhiffushi (04º26'.52 N, 073º 42'.69 E) 16 miles NE, is a thickly wooded island which is a tourist resort. 4 Meerufenfushi (04º27'.15 N, 073º 42'.9E) is an island, wooded with coconut trees, that supports a tourist resort; some small craft berths have been constructed on its W side. East of the island the sea bed slopes less steeply than elsewhere off this side of the atoll. Shoal water has in the past attracted local fishing craft. In addition to the islands and islets described above, there are several other small islets shown on the chart all of which are reported to be tourist resorts. Lagoon entrances 2.243239 1 Bodu Kalhi (04º 16'.00 N, 073º 33'.00 E) the best and widest entrance into the lagoon of Male Atoll lies between Kaduoiygiri and Lankanfinolhu,1¾ miles NNE; the channel is about 1¼ miles wide between the reefs. There are depths of about 50 m in the deepest part of the fairway which lies 6 cables S of Lankanfinolhu Islet and about 3 cables clear of its reef; a bank with depths of 10 m or less extends 5 cables into the entrance N from Furanafushi. 2 Thulusdhoo Channel (04º 22'.70 N, 073º 39'.20 E), the N.most entrance on this side of the atoll, lies between Thulusdhooand Viligilimathidhahuraa., 5 cables ENE; the channel is about 2 cables wide with a least charted depth of 35 m in the approach from SE. Within the lagoon the line of the fairway leads to deep water but there are reefs close SW of this line. 3 Kuda Kalhi (04º 14'.7 N, 073º 33'.0 E) is entered between the N edge of the reef surrounding Farukolhufushi and the reef which extends from the SE point of Furanafushi ; there is a least charted depth of 17 m in the S part of the entrance to the fairway, then to the channel, with reefs on each side, deepens in its centreCentre to about 58 m. Close within the lagoon an isolated reef lies on the line of the fairway about 9 cables WNW of Farukolhufushi; another reef,with a shoal patch on its WSW side, lies about 7 cables W of the same island. 4 Between Himmafushi (04º 18'.6 N, 073º 34'.3 E) and Lhohifushi, 3½ miles NE, there are several entrances into the lagoon which are reported to be well defined but they are all generally narrow and some are encumbered with shoal patches as shown on the chart. The line of the fairway leads to deep water within the lagoon but there are reefs close SW of this line. Principal marks 2.244240 1 Landmarks.A conspicuous radio mast and a tower (both uncharted) stands on Girifushi. Useful marks 2.245241 1 Radio mast (uncharted) (04º 21'.00 N, 073º 37'.00 E) stands on Lhohifushi. Wreck south west of Nakachchafushi Island 2 Two partially visual wrecks at positions (04º 22'.53 N, 73º 38'.70 E) and (04º 21'.16 N, 73º 20'.58 E) are in the NW of Thulusdhoo Island and SW of Nakachchafushi Island respectively. Wreck North West Thulusdhoo Island (sailing boat)Wreck south west of Nakachchafushi Island Wreck North West Thulusdhoo Island (sailing boat) North-eastern side of Male Atollatoll Chart 227,266, 2061 Description 2.246242 1 The barrier reef trends from Meerufenfushi (04º 27'.15 N, 073º 42'.90 E) about 19 miles NW to Kagi Channel which enters the lagoon close E of the N point of the atoll; the reef has several large reefs with a few islets and several openings into the lagoon. Principal islets 2.243 1 The islets on this side of the atoll, on the barrier reef and within the lagoon, are described below and positioned from Meerufenfushi (04º 27' N, 073º 43' E): Nakachchafushi Principal islets 2.247 1 The islets on this side of the atoll, on the barrier reef and within the lagoon, are described below and positioned from Meerufenfushi (04º 27' N, 073º 43' E): Asdhoo (04º28'.02 N, 073º 39'.71E), 3½ miles WNW an islet covered with coconut trees, is a tourist resort. 2 Helegeti (Helengeli) (04º38'.07 N, 073º 33'.80 E), 14¼ miles NW, a low long wooded islet, is a tourist resort with a small jetty situated on its W side. Kagi (04º40'.63 N, 073º 29'.98 E), 18¾ miles NW, a small wooded islet is not a tourist resort; however, it is used by dhonis craft (open local boats), and a limited supply of fresh water is reported to be available; a small jetty has been constructed on its E side. Lagoon entrances 2.248244 1 Dhiffushi Channel (04º 28'.65 N, 073º 41'.74 E) is deep but divided into two small channels, close within its entrance, by a long narrow reef; the widest channel is the S channel in which there is a least charted depth of 22 m. Within the lagoon the channel gives access to a passage, which requires considerable care that leads to Male 21 miles SW; also, close within the entrance a boat channel that leads W of Meerufenfushi and Dhiffushi gives access to these islands from within the atoll. 2 Asdhoo Channel(04º 29'.44 N, 073º 41'.00 E), lie 1 mile NW of Dhiffushi Channel, and enters the lagoon between unmarked reefs; the channel, about 3 cables wide, with a least charted depth of 24 m gives clear access to Asdhoo . 3 Helegeli Irumathee Channelolhi (04º 37'.80 N, 073º 34'.00 E), with least charted depth of 38 m in the fairway, enters the lagoon, S of Helegeli Islet, between the reef enclosing this islet and an unnamed reef about 3 cables SE. The entrance to the channel is reported to be well defined by a distinctive dark coral rock, which dries; the channel is much used by local craft. Another channel lying close N of Helegeli Islet is narrow in comparison with the S channel and has a reported least depth of 20m. Kagi Channelolhi (04º 42'.00 N, 073º 30'.50 E), the N most entrance into the lagoon on this side of the atoll, passes between reefs which are marked by drying rocks and gives deep clear access to Kagi. There are several other entrances into the lagoon on this side of the atoll, most have deep channels but there are no landmarks to identify them. Nevertheless, a vessel may pass through the wider ones in favorable conditions and keeping a good lookout. Helegeli Principal Mark 2.249245 Landmark: 1 A radio mast (04º 38'.11 N, 073º 33'.84 E), position approximate, stands on Helegeli. Useful marks 2.250246 1 Maa Haa Light-beacon No 1 (grey framework tower on a concrete base, 5 m in height) (04º 36'.00 N, 073º 29'.95 E), position approximate, stands near the centrecenter of the S edge of Maa Haa Reef. 2 A new beacon exists NW of Ziyaaraiyfushi Islandin position (04º 34'.35 N, 073º 22'.66 E) with characteristics of FL (4) 20s. Maa Haa Light-beacon No 1 2 A new beacon exists NW of Ziyaaraiyfushi Islandin position (04º 34'.35 N, 073º 22'.66 E) with characteristics of FL (4) 20s. Gaafaru Channel and Gaafaru Falhu Chart 266 Gaafaru Channel 2.251247 1 Gaafaru Channel (04º 42'.70 N, 073º 28'.00 E) separates Male Atoll from Gaafaru Falhu; the channel is about 1¼ miles wide at its narrowest part and is deep and free from charted dangers. 2 Current. During the NE monsoon a 2 to 3 kts current sets W through the channel causing strong eddies and turbulence where it meets the tidal streams from Male Atoll. Gaafaru Falhu 2.252248 1 General information. Gaafaru Falhu (Burulu Falhu) (04º 45'.00 N, 073º 26'.00 E) is a small atoll 8 miles long E to W and a max of 4¼ miles wide lying on the N side of Gaafaru Channel. Gaafaru (04º 44'.21 N, 073º 29'.87 E), an islet, stands near the SE point of the atoll with a village,. A clump of trees stands on the reef about 1 mile WSW of the islet. 2 Useful mark: Stranded wreck (04º 46'.02 N, 073º 23'.24E), (position approximate) lies on the NW side of the atoll. Radio mast (red and white bands) (04º44'.23 N, 073º29'.92 E), from which an obstruction light is exhibited, stands on Gaafaru. 3 Lagoon entrances. The NW entrance, Hulhangu Channel (04º 46'.44 N, 073º 23'.82 E) gives deep but narrow access to the lagoon; 4 miles E, the Iruwai Channel, is shallow and encumbered with rocks close within the lagoon. Good conditions and local knowledge are considered essential before entry as both entrances are not well marked Through the barrier reef boat passages exist about 1 mile W and N of Gaafaru; a beacon stands in the vicinity of the latter passage. 4 Reclamation.Velifaru a small reclaimed island lies 1 mile south west of Gaafaru. Thumbafhushi, a reclaimed island with some industrial units lies 3 mile south of Helengeli. 5 Resorts.The Island of Eriyadu, Helengeli and Kagi have resorts with jetties. Seaplanes operated by Island Aviation Services Ltd and Maldivian Air Taxi operates to and from the resorts. 6 Protected Area.Makunudhoo Channel is declared a protected place by the Government. Gaafaru Falhu Gaafaru Falhu Western side of Male Atollatoll Chart 227, 266, 2061 Description 2.253249 1 The barrier reef extends from Gulhi Falhu (04º 11'.00 N, 073º 28'.00 E) towards W and NW in a curve to Kodhipparu, about 11 miles NW; then to generally N and NE to Olhuhali, 23 miles NNE. There are a number of large reefs with a few islets on the reef the barrier reef and several openings into the lagoon. Principal islets 2.254250 1 On this side of the atoll, the islets are generally small.Several are low-bush covered islets about 7 m high lying on the fringing reef, giving effective warning of the below-water reef lying some distance seaward of them. Most of the principal islets are tourist resorts, and are described below: 2 Giraavaru (04º 12'.01 N, 073º 24'.83 E), an islet, lies at the NE point of the reef near the SW extremity of the atoll, is covered with scrub and a few coconut trees. There are jetties on the islets and small craft facilities. 3 Rasfari (04º 23'.66 N, 073º 21'.08E), a low islet, stands on the barrier reef and is covered with trees and scrub. Nakachchaafushi, with a jetty on its E side and Boduhithi, with breakwaters and a jetty on its S side and another jetty on the N side, lie, respectively, 2 miles SE and 3 miles NE of Rasfari. 4 Hebadhoo (04º 28'.91 N, 073º23'.59 E) lies about 2 miles within the lagoon and is a heavily wooded island. Madivaru, Medhufinolhu, with two landing places on its W side, and Ziyaaraiyfushi, lies on the barrier reef 2 miles NW of Hebadhoo. 5 Makunudhoo (04º 32'.57 N, 073º 24'.33 E) and Eriyadhoo about 3 miles N, both islets having landing places, lie about 2 miles within the lagoon; 6 Akirifushi (04º 38'.24 N, 073º 24'.00 E), lies on the barrier reef and is a low islet covered with bushes; Olhuhali, a similar islet, marks the NW point of the atoll and lies about 4½ miles NE of Akirifushi. Akirifushi Lagoon entrances 2.255251 1 Giraavaru Irumathee Channel (04º 11'.25 N, 073º 24'.5 E), with a least charted depth of 46 m in the middle of its fairway is an easily discernible channel. Giraavaru Uthuru Channel, 1½ miles NW of Giraavaru Irumathee Channel, with lesser depth than the latter, is wider but has a shoal patch with a depth of 35 m in the middle of its fairway. Both entrances have a small islet lying near their SE entrance points. 2 There are numerous openings into the lagoon between Giraavaru Irumathee Channel and Kithi Channel, 15 miles N, but many of these, including Kithi Channel and the unnamed widest opening on this side of the lagoon, situated W of Hebadhoo and about 1¾ miles N of Kithi Channel, are encumbered with dangers as shown on the chart. 3 Ziyaarahfushi Channel (04º 33'.50 N, 073º 22'.50 E), with a least charted depth of 5.5 m in the middle of its fairway, although wide, has a large shoal patch; this opening gives access to Makunudhoo and Eriyadhoo. Himmiya Channel, which passes through the barrier reef 3½ miles NNE of Ziyaarahfushi Channel, is narrow at its entrance and has several obstructions where it broadens out into the lagoon. On each side of Akirifushi (04º 38'.24 N, 073º 24'.00 E) there is a narrow but safe opening and another opening 1 mile ENE of it. Beacon off Giraavaru 4 Near the N point of the atoll, close NE of Olhuhali Islet, Olhuhali Uthuru Channel (04º 41'.58 N, 073º 27'.52 E) enters the lagoon from Gaafaru Channel. The reef edges at the entrance to this channel are reported to beclearly visible and there is a least charted depth of 14m at the inner end of its fairway. During the NE monsoon, it is advisable to enter this channel at about the time of slack water on account of the strong W-setting current and the eddies experienced in Gaafaru Channel. Useful marks 2.256252 1 Radio mast (red and white bands), not charted, from which obstruction lights are exhibited, stands on Rasfari. Stranded wreck (04º 21'.16 N, 073º 20'.59 E). A light, not charted is, exhibited from SW extremity of Himmiya Falhu (04º 35'.00 N, 073º 23'.00 E). Light (pile) (04º 34'.35 N, 073º 22'.66 E). Southern part of Male Lagoon Chart 266,227 Description 2.257253 1 Depths generally range in several places from 40 to 60 m with abrupt shoals and reefs rising from the seabed within the S part of Male Lagoon. The reefs are usually easily discerned by sharp iridescent Water contrasts at their edges. In this part of the lagoon there are a few sandbanks and some drying reef edges. Principal islets 2.258254 1 The principal islets in this part of the lagoon, having tourist facilities, are described below: Kuda Wataru (04º 15'.59 N, 073º 22'.87 E) lying on the inner edge of the main barrier reef is a small sand islet; it is sparsely covered with low shrubs. A small scrub-covered sandbank lies about 7 cables SSW of the islet. 2 Vabbinfaru (04º 18'.59 N, 073º 25'.45 E), 4 miles NE, is surrounded by an unbroken reef and is thickly wooded with coconut trees and scrub; there is a jetty situated on its S side. Ihuru, lying 6 cables WSW of Vabbinfaru, is a similar islet, with a dense covering of coconut trees and a surrounding reef that is very steep on the SE side; there is also a jetty at this island. 3 Baros (04º 17'.09 N, 073º 25'.64 E), 3 miles ENE, is an islet wooded with coconut trees, which may appear to have high cliffs from a distance due to a mirage effect given by the tourist chalets that stand on the islet. A jetty, which extends from the S shore of the islet, is approached through a break in the surrounding reef; there are depths of about 1m alongside the jetty. 4 Thulhaagiri (04º 18'.66 N, 073º 29'.26 E),7 miles ENE, is wooded with coconut trees and is surrounded by an unbroken reef; there is a jetty on the SW side of the islet. With a least charted depth of 1.1m, a pinnacled shoal, lies about 1¾ miles WSW of the islet. 5 Bodubados(Bodubandos) (04º 16'.17 N, 073º 29'.50 E) (6¾ miles E), enclosed by two breakwaters it has a small boat basin situated on its SE side; a light (uncharted) is exhibited from the E breakwater. Kudabados(Kudabandos), lying 6 cables SE of Bodubados, is a wooded islet, with Bandos Maa Gaa, a large circular reef, adjoining its SE side. There are marked channels for both the islets through the reef on their E sides, and a deep narrow channel separates the two islets. Baros Island Useful mark 2.259255 1 There are two radio masts (04º 16'.11 N, 073º 29'.50 E) uncharted in Bodubados, an obstruction light is exhibited from the E mast. Anchorages 2.260256 1 Keeping clear of the reefs, vessels may anchor anywhere in this part of the lagoon. Southern-eastern part of Male Atoll Chart 266,227, 2061 General information and description 2.261257 1 In the S part of the atoll, there are the islands of Male, HululeHulhule, Viligili and several islets; they are mostly separated by navigable channels. Male 2.262 1 See 2.279 for description and details. HululeHulhule 2.263258 1 Description. There is an airport on HululeHulhule Island (4º 11'.40 N, 73º 31'.70 E). The runway extends about 6 cables N and 4 cables S of the extremities of the island, giving it a total length of 2 miles; a series of prominent low-level airport buildings stand along the centre part of the W side of the island. International Air Port at HululeHulhule Island 2 From the S end of the airport runway Hulhule Falhu extends about 4 miles NNE. The islet of Farukolhufushi lies towards the N end of this reef. A seaplane terminal and base lie 3 cables NE of the airport control tower. 2.264259 Landmark: 1 Control tower (4º 11'.27 N, 73º 31'.64 E), a white building with a red roof. A light is exhibited. Radio mast (23 m in height), (4º 11'.56 N, 73º 31'.62 E); red obstruction lights are exhibited from the mast. 2.265260 1 Harbour. On the W side of the islandthere is a small boat harbour, breakwaters constructed along the outer edge of the reef protect it. The harbour is reported to be subject to silting. 2 Entrances. There are two entrances to the harbour between: The N entrance is marked on the S side by a light (4º 11'.50 N, 73º 31'.51 E) exhibited from the detached breakwater head; the depth in the entrance is 1.2 m and the reef extends N of the breakwater into the entrance; The S entrance is opposite the airport control tower and is narrow between the reef and S breakwater; a light beacon (starboard hand) is situated on the reef ½ cable S of the entrance. 3 Moorings. Two mooring buoys (special) are moored close NW of the N entrance to the harbour; these are used by small tankers. Hulhumale’ 2.266261 1 Description. Hulhumale’ (4º 12'.80 N, 73º 32'.40 E) is an artificial island 2 m above sea level and is to eventually replace male’ as the capital city of the archipelago. Several thousand of the population of male’ and some from other islands have been relocated to hulhumale’. Works areprovided to continue until 2020 when the population will be 60,000. 2 Caution.The area E of hulhumale’ is unsurveyed. 3 Landmark.Tower (4º 13'.24 N, 73º 32'.78 E) (45 m in height) standing at the NE corner of the island. 4 Anchorage. The lagoon W OF Hulhumale’is entered from W between two islets situated at the extremities of reefs; the entrance is marked by two buoys (special). There is an anchorage within the lagoon used by small craft. Viligili 2.267262 1 Description. Viligili (4º 10'.40 N, 73º 29'.10 E), a tourist resort, lies about 1 mile W of Male . It is a low wooded island with a steep-to reef on its S and W sides; a drying reef, on which the sea usually breaks, extends seaward from Rat Point, the SE extremity of the island. A group of rocks (1 m in height), whose existence is doubtful, are reported to exist about 4 cables WSW of Rat Point. 2.268263 1 Landmark: Dish aerial (4º 10'.3 N, 73º 29'.1E), lies about 13/4 miles SW of VihamanaafushiVihamanaafushi (Kurumbaa Village) (2.283).Whitein colour, stands about 30 m W of a radio tower. 2.269264 1 Berth.Small craft harbour facilities are located on the NE side of Viligili. 2.270265 1 Viligili E entrance to lagoon. Maa Thila, a shoal, which lies in centre, divides the opening between Viligili and Male into two channels; further shoals of 11 and 15.4 m lie, respectively, 2 and 4 cables NNE of Maa Thila. In the above entrance tidal streams are strong and tide-rips form near the shoals; navigation in the channels is not recommended. 2 Viligili W entrance to lagoon. With a least charted depth of 38 m the opening between Viligili and Gulhi Falhu, 1 mile WNW, is deep but it is narrow and not recommended for navigation. Another channel, 1½ mile farther W, is tortuous and also not recommended. Feydhoo 2.271266 1 Feydhoo (4º 12'.86 N, 73º 29'.13 E) lies 2¼ miles N of Viligili and is a bare sandy islet mostly surrounded by a steep-to reef which dries in places. The islet is owned by the Ministry of Education and used as an education settlement. There are breakwaters extending from the N part of the islet on its E and W sides.Three breakwaters lights locatedon the NE corner of the islet. Aarah 2.272267 1 Aarah (4º 13'.82 N, 73º 29'.68 E) islet is the holiday residence of the President of the Republic of Maldives and lies 1 miles NNE of Feydhoo. Access is restricted. Enclosed by two breakwaters, a small boat basin is situated on the S side of the islet. VihamanaafushiVihamanaafushi (Kurumbaa Village) 2.273268 1 VihamanaafushiVihamanaafushi (Kurumbaa Village) (4º13'.60 N, 73º 31'.20 E), a tourist resort, lying 1½ miles E of Aarah ,Aarah, is densely populated on its W side; a small jetty extends S from its S shore. A mooring buoy, with a light-buoy moored close N, lies 2 cables SE of the islet. 2.269 1 Useful mark.A radio mast (04º 13'.49 N, 073º 31'.20 E), stands on the SE part of Vihamanaafushi (Kurumbaa Village) Islet. Vihamanaafushi 2.274 1 Useful mark.A radio mast (04º 13'.49 N, 073º 31'.20 E), stands on the SE part of Vihamanaafushi Islet. Galu Falhu 2.275270 1 Galu Falhu (04º 12'.5 N, 073º 30'.0 E), is a circular reef which appears to contain deep water and lies about 13/4 miles SW of VihamanaafushiVihamanaafushi ( Kurumbaa Village). 2 Useful marks.Two light beacon are positioned at the NW and NE corner of the circular reef. Dhoonidhoo 2.276 1 Dhoonidhoo (04º 11'.8 N, 073º 31'.1 E) lying 1¾ miles SSW of Vihamanaafushi is a wooded islet, and is surrounded by a reef. The Ministry of Public Safety administers it and landing is prohibited, but authorized boats can secure to the outer end of the E of the two coral breakwaters situated at the N end of the islet. Between the breakwaters, a derelict iron jetty is suitable only for small authorized boats. Dhoonidhoo Island Dhoonidhoo 2.271 1 Dhoonidhoo (04º 11'.8 N, 073º 31'.1 E) lying 1¾ miles SSW of Vihamanaafushi ( Kurumbaa Village) is a wooded islet, and is surrounded by a reef. The Ministry of Public Safety administers it and landing is prohibited, but authorized boats can secure to the outer end of the E of the two coral breakwaters situated at the N end of the islet. Between the breakwaters, a derelict iron jetty is suitable only for small authorized boats. Useful marks 2.277272 1 Useful marks: Radio tower (04º 11'.87 N, 073º 30.84 E) standing at the NE side of the island. Funadhoo 2.273 1 Funadhoo (04º 11'.00 N, 073º 31'.10 E) an islet, lying 8 cables SSE of Dhoonidhoo is covered with tall trees; it is surrounded by a reef which dries in places. The islet has a small harbour situated on the S side and another, which is a fuelling harbour with a tank farm onshore, on its NW side.There is a narrowchannel through the reef to a jetty at the SW end of the islet. Funadhoo MALE General information Charts 266, 227, 2061 Position 2.274 1 Male (04º 10'.50 N, 073º 30'.50 E) is situated near the SE point of Male Atoll on the N side of the E entrance to Vaadhoo Kandu. Function 2.275 1 Male is the capital city and the seat of the office of the President. The island has a small harbour and a large anchorage. Tourism is the main industry Topography 2.276 1 Male and its nearby islands are all very low and the first landfall points visible are normally the buildings or ships at anchor. 2 Most of the island is built upon; there are many modern buildings especially on the N side and there is a network of earth and paved roads; island is however thickly wooded. 3 A sea-wall, built with tetrapods, extends along the S side of the island. Approach and entry 2.277 1 The port is approached from E via Bodu Kalhi and entered between, the NE point of Male Island and the N end of the airport runway on HululeHulhule. Port authority 2.278 1 Maldives Ports Authority, boduthakurufannu magu, Maafannu,Male’ 20-02, Republic of Maldives. Email: info@maldport.com.mv Limiting conditions Controlling depths 2.279 1 The maximum permitted draughts are 9.5 m at Magathu Faalan and 25 m in the anchorage. 2 Tidal levels. Mean maximum range0.6 m; mean minimum range 0.3 m. Deepest and longest berth 2.280 1 Magathu Faalan (Northern Pier). Mean tidal levels 2.281 1 See information in relevant Tide Tables. Mean spring range about 0.7 m; mean neap range about 0.3 m. Density of water 2.282 1 Density of water is normally about 1.026 g/cm3. Arrival information Port radio 2.283 1 Vessels arriving to Port of Male and other terminal must establish VHF contact to Harbour Control on VHF channel 10, two hours before vessel arrival to pilot boarding ground. For details see the relevant List of Radio Signals. Notice of ETA required 2.284 1 24 hoursnotice of ETA is required. Confirmation to be intimated 2 hours before arrival. Pilots and tugs 2.285 1 Pilotage is compulsory for all vessels over120gt. Pilots boards in position4º 16' N 73º 34'E. Vessels proceeding to pilot boarding ground should maintain a minimum separation distance of 1 mile with a vessel ahead which is also proceeding to the pilot boarding ground. Vessels when executing the passage plan to approaches of pilot boarding ground shall do so at a safe speed taking into consideration the separation distance and factors listed in rule 6 of COLREGs, such as the state of visibility, available sea room and traffic density Harbour General layout 2.286 1 Anchorage and berthing areas. Anchorage areas in the open water N of Male and Viligili, 1 mile W consist outer harbour; the inner harbour provides numerous berths for small vessels on the N side of theisland and another small enclosed harbour has been constructed at its SW corner. 2 Approach channel. Bodu Kalhi (04°16'.35 N 073°32'.75 E), steering for the deep –water fairway lying 6 cables S of Lakanfinolhu, which is marked by a light beacon (lateral) and some 3 cables clear of its reef; then, the route leads 1½ miles W and 5 miles SSW, then S, through a channel of islets and reefs marked by light beacons (lateral and cardinal) to the anchorage N of Male, passing: 3 S of two shoal patches with least charted depths of 8 m and 7 m (04°17'.14 N, 073°32'.21 E) and (04°17'.28 N, 073°31'.98 E) respectively, then to N then WNW of an unnamed reef which dries (04°15'.90 N 073°32'.00 E); shoal patches extend ½ cable NW and 2 cables S from this reef. 4 ESE of Bandos Maa Gaa (04°15'.70 N, 073°30'.50 E), then to WNW of VihamanaafushiVihamanaafushi ( Kurumbaa Village) (04°13'.61 N 073°31'.19 E)ESE of Aarah (4°13'.82 N 73°29'.68 E), The track then continues S, passing: E of Galu Falhu (04°12'.50 N, 73°30'.00 E), then toW of Dhoonidhoo (04°11'.82 N, 073°30'.83 E), then to; to the port or designated anchorage N of Male. For details of tidal streams and currents see 2.293. Natural conditions 2.287 1 For details see climatic table 1.195178. Tidal streams and currents 2.288 1 It appears that the monsoon currents far more than by the tidal streams influence water movement in and around Male. When the currents are flowing strongly tidal streams are probably only strong enough to increase or decrease the flow of the currents, but rarely strong enough to reverse their direction. Therefore, because they depend on the current, sets are often strong and unpredictable. 2.289 1 The streams from Vaadhoo Channel set across in Gaadhoo Koa and during the NE monsoon a component of the current sets NW through the entrance setting a vessel towards the reef fringing the E side of Male; within the entrance, the flow then turns W between Male and Funadhoo. During the NE monsoon strong sets have been reported within Male Harbour. 2 Local Observation. The above flow was observed in February 1972, to start 1½ hours before high water and continue until 1½ hours before low water, attaining a maximum rate of 2½ to 3 kts N of Male Breakwater. At about the time of high water, this stream sets strongly along the N face of the breakwater; at the same time, the flow E of Funadhoo was weak and variable. 2.290 1 In the SW monsoon conditions a component of the current enters Male Lagoon through Giraavaru Irumathee Channel, 6 miles W of Male, flowing out principally through the channel E of Viligili and between Male and Funadhoo into Vaadhoo Channel. in the lagoon. Principal marks 2.291 Landmarks: 1 Two radio masts (obstruction lights) (04º 10'.30 N, 073º 31'.03 E) standing close together near the SE point of Male’; these masts readily identify the island from E. Male Minaret and Mosque from NE 2 Television tower (red and white bands, 59 m in height) (04º 10'.29 N, 073º 30'.63 E); red obstruction lights are exhibited. 3 Communication tower (obstruction lights) (04º 10'.59 N, 073º 30'.76 E) (red and white bands, 72 m in height). 4 Mosque (04º 10'.70 N, 073º 30'.64 E), white in colour with gold dome; a minaret, white in colour with gold cupola, stands close NE of the mosque. Directions Cautions 2.292 1 Male and its nearby islands are generally not detected on radar until after a visual landfall has been made. Reclamation or construction work is going on several islands and radar ranges should be verified carefully.The recommended daylight approach to the anchorage N of Male, for all vessels upto 40 m, is through Maathila except those of very low power, which normally use Bodu Kalhi; for details see 2.300. Night navigation of the channel is not recommended. 2 The Gaadhoo Koa channel has proved to be increasingly dangerous for shipping with the seasonal monsoons causing strong currents that set across its mouth at a reported rate of up to 6 kts and hence it is permanently closed for all vessels. Approach from east 2.293 1 Vessels approaching from E should use Bodu Kalhi (04°16'.35 N 073°32'.75 E), steering for the deep –water fairway lying 6 cables S of Lakanfinolhu, which is marked by a light beacon (lateral) and some 3 cables clear of its reef; then, the route leads 1½ miles W and 5 miles SSW, then S, through a channel of islets and reefs marked by light beacons (lateral and cardinal) to the anchorage N of Male, passing: 2 S of two shoal patches with least charted depths of8 m and 7 m (04°17'.14 N,073°32'.21 E) and (04°17'.28 N,073°31'.98 E) respectively, then toN then WNW of an unnamed reef which dries (04°15'.90 N,073°32'.00 E); shoal patches extend ½ cable NW and 2 cables S from this reef. 3 ESE of Bandos Maa Gaa (04°15'.70 N,073°30'.50 E), then toWNW of vihamanaafushi (04°13'.61 N 073°31'.19 E)ESE of Aarah (4°13'.82 N 73°29'.68 E), The track then continues S, passing: E of Galu Falhu (04°12'.50 N, 73°30'.00 E), then toW of Dhoonidhoo (04°11'.82 N,073°30'.83 E), then to; to the port or designated anchorage N of Male. Approach from west 2.294 1 While approaching Male from W enter KardivaKardiva Channel (04º 50'.00 N, 073º 10'.00 E) between Thoddoo and Gaafaru Falhu, 23 miles N of Thoddoo. Keeping a safe distance close N of Thoddoo, steer for the W entrance to Vaadhoo Channel where course should be adjusted to pass S of Male; both Thoddoo and Male Islands are normally visible at a good distance and the former usually remains visible until the latter is sighted. Approach from north-east 2.295 1 Bodu Kalhi (04º 16'00 N, 073º 33'00 E) is recommended route for low powered vessels, sailing vessels and other small vessels approaching from E. Vessels entering by this channel should steer for the deep-water fairway lying about 6 cables S of Lankanfinolhu Islet and some 3 cables clear of its reef; thereafter, the route leads 1½ miles W and 5 miles SSW to the anchorage N of Male, passing (with positions from the W point of Vihamanaafushi (04º 13'.6 N, 073º 31'.0 E): 2 S of an unexamined shoal patch (3¾ miles NNE) with a charted depth of 7.1 m over it, andN then WNW of an unnamed reef (2½ miles NNE); shoal patches extend about 1 cable NW and 2 cables S from this reef with charted depths, respectively, of 2.6 and 3.2 m near their outer limits. Then to: 3 ESE of Bandos Maa Gaa (2¼ miles NNW), then to: WNW of Vihamanaafushi, and: ESE of Aarah (1½ miles WNW), then to: ESE of Galu Falhu (1½ miles SW), then to: WNW of Dhoonidhoo (1¾ miles S), and: 4 Steer for the relevant anchorage area. Useful marks 2.296 1 Telecommunications (postal) tower; a red obstruction light (04º 10'.59 N, 073º 30’.76 E). 2 Harbour master’s office (04º 10'.74 N, 073º 30’.66 E), standing on shore abreast the main entrance in the breakwateron the N side of the island; a prominent flagstaff stands nearby. Berths Anchorages 2.297 1 Caution. During the NE monsoon, anchoring less than 3 cables N of the breakwater is not recommended, because of the strong currents experienced in that vicinity. 2 Outer harbour,situated N and NW of Male, and has the general anchorage areas for: tankers (two areas); dangerous cargoes; working cargo; military vessels and a waiting area. The limits of these areas are shown on the chart. Except for coasters and most RoRo, vessels work cargo at the anchorage. Special moorings 2.298 1 Small vessels can moor on the E side of Galu Falhu during the SW monsoon conditions; an anchor is set in the coral of this reef to which a vessel can secure, with a stern anchor laid out to the E. There are also two anchors on the SE part of Dhoonidhoo which can be used in the same way. Berths 2.299 1 Principal berth.Magathu Faalan (Northern Pier) (04º 10'.84 N, 073º 30’.33 E), RoRo berth for vessels up to 150 m long and a draught of 9.5 m. 2 Inner Atoll harbour.With depths about 1.8 to 3 m and situated on the N side of the island, it provides berthing for dhonis craft (open local boats), inter island boats, government vessels, tourist and private launches. A low breakwater protects this harbour with five entrances into the main part of the harbour and one to a small basin at the E end. The main entrance, which is 17 m wide, lies 4½ cables WNW of Sawmill Point, the NE point of the island. All of the entrances are marked with lights, exhibited from beacons (black and white bands), in accordance with the IALA Maritime Buoyage System (Region A). 3 Commercial Harbour. Provides berthing for lighters and vessels, with a draught of about 3 m and LOA 60 m, is situated at the NW corner of the island. It is enclosed by a breakwater with an entrance marked by lights in accordance with the IALA Maritime Buoyage System (Region A). 4 South West Harbour. Provides berthing for inter-island trading boats and lighters and is situated at the SW corner of the island. It is enclosed by an unmarked breakwater. It also provides a RoRo berth. Port services Repairs 2.300 1 Facilities exist for limited repairs, general maintenance. There is a slipway for small craft up to 50 tons, underwater cleaning and welding can be arranged. Other facilities 2.301 1 Hospital; de-ratting exemption certificates are available. Supplies 2.302 1 Lubricating, diesel and gas oil, fresh water, provisions and fish are available. Heavy oil is not available. Communications 2.303 1 Male International Airport Ibrahim Nasir International Airport at HululeHulhule, 1 mile NE; and by sea. Regulations 2.304 1 Immobilisation of vessel. For any work that would immobilise a vessel for more than 2 hours, prior approval from the harbour control office is required. 2 Hot work. Written approval from the port authority is required for any hot work while in the anchorage or at a berth. 3 Trade. Due to customs regulations, the islanders in the out-lying atolls of the Maldives are not permitted to trade with foreign vessels. All trade being conducted through Male. Rescue 2.305 1 The following rescue facilities are reported to be available:Smallsalvage tug. Speed boats (40 kts). Seaplane and helicopters. See the relevant List of Radio Signals. For further information on rescue facilities. KARDIVAKARDIVA CHANNEL TO EIGHT DEGREE CHANNEL General Information Charts 266,265,273 Area covered 2.306 1 This section covers the atolls situated in the northern part of the Maldives, these atolls are described in two groups as West groupand East Grouptogether with the routes through the area.as follows: 2 West group.Goidhoo Atoll South Maalhosmadulu Atoll North Maalhosmadulu Atoll Maamakunudhoo Atoll Hani Channel 3 East group. Faadhippolhu Atoll South Miladhunmadulu Atoll North Miladhunmadulu Atoll South Thiladhunmathee Atoll North Thiladhunmathee Atoll IhavandhippolhuAtoll Baraveli Channel Gallandhoo Channel 42 Routes. West and east of the above atolls; central channel, lying between the two groups of atolls, including Allhuras Channel. 53 Channels. KardivaKardiva Channel and Eight Degree Channel the principal E/W channels lying, respectively, S and N of the area are also described. Atolls 2.307 1 Common feature of the atolls in the N part of the Maldives is that some the reefs within the barrier reefs aremore prominent than those within the atolls in the central and S parts. Currents 2.308 1 In the N part of the Maldives Group set W and NW from December to March inclusive; from May to October currents set E and SE but are subject to much variability at all seasons. Transition periods are the months of April and November. Tidal streams 2.309 1 At the N end of theseislands, tidal streams attain a rate of about 1½ kts but are very irregular and always influenced by the prevailing winds and currents; thus during the NE monsoon the out-going stream seems to run longer than in the opposite season. With strong W winds the in-going stream sets E for most of the day but when the wind eases the out-going stream takes its turn to set W in the same way when the water may fall 0.1 m lower than it usually does at springs. Principal marks 2.310 Landmarks: 1 There are few landmarks in the area covered by this section and will only be seen by vessels approaching an individual atoll; therefore the descriptions of landmarks will be found in the relevant part and not in the directions for the area. WEST GROUP OF ATOLLS INCLUDING CHANNELS AND DIRECTIONS Passage directions west of atolls Charts227, 265,266,273 2.311 1 The passage leads N for about 200 miles from a position W of KardivaKardiva Channel (04º 50' 00 N, 073º 10' 00 E), passingW of Goidhoo Atoll atoll (04º 51' N, 072º 55' E), thentoW of South Maalhosmadulu Atoll (05º 15' 00 N, 073º 00'00 E), then toW of North Maalhosmadulu Atoll atoll (05º 35' 00 N, 072º 55'00 E), then to: 2 W or E of Maamakunudhoo Atoll atoll (06º 20' 00 N, 072º 38'00 E), then toW of South Thiladhunmathee Atoll atoll (06º 38' 00 N, 073º 00'00 E), then to, W of Ihavandhippolhu Atoll atoll (07º 00' N, 072º 55' E), then: 3 To a position in Eight Degree Channel from where vessels may steer to pass W or E of Minicoy Island (08º 16' N, 073º 03' E) as required. KARDIVAKARDIVA CHANNEL Charts 266 Description 2.312 1 KardivaKardiva Channel (Kaashidoo Channel) (04º 50'00 N, 073º 10'00 E) lies between North Ari and Male' Atolls to the SE and South Maalhosmadulu and Faadhippolhu Atolls, respectively, to the NW and N. The channel is orientated NE/SW and it is one of the principal routes in an E/W direction through the Maldives for ocean going vessels; for details of such routes see Ocean Passages for the World. 2 The channel is divided at its E part by the island of Kaashidhoointo two channels; Kaashidhoo Kuda ChannelKuda Kandu leads S of the island and Kaashidhoo Bodu Channel leads N of it. Depths 2.313 1 The channel is deep and free from known dangers in the fairway. In the W approaches a seamount (04º 26'.10 N, 072º40'.25 E), with a depth of 185 m, lies 12 miles NNW of North Ari Atollatoll. Tidal streams and current 2.314 1 Tidal streams set ENE when in-going and WSW when out-going through the channel, at a rate of up to2 kts. 2 The tidal stream is inappreciable when in-going during the NE monsoon; but the out-going is reinforced by the surface current generated by the monsoon. Similarly, the out-going stream is weak or absent and the in-going stream is strong during the SW monsoon. Lights 2.315 1 In the Channel and in its vicinity lights of limited range are exhibited. Approach aspect 2.316 1 The Channel’s W entrance is not easily identified; the wooded islets in Ari Atoll and Goidhoo Atoll atoll lie several miles within the dangers of their barrier reefs.2 The channel’s E entrance has Gaafaru Falhu on its S side which also is not easily identified; however, the N part of this entrance is well defined by Kaashidhoo (04º57'.50 N, 073º28'00 E) in the centre of the entrance, and by the islets on the SE end of Faadhippolhu Atoll atoll at its N entrance point. Passage directions 2.317 1 The chart is sufficient guide for KardivaKardiva Channel. Useful marks 2.318 1 Thoddoo (04º 26'.20 N, 072º 57'.70 E) is visible froma good distance. Kaashidhoo (04º57'.50 N, 073º 28'.00 E). Kaashidhoo 2.319 1 General information. It is a wooded island (04º 57'.50 N, 73º 28'.00 E), oriented NE/SW 1½ miles Long and 5 cables wide with a town situated on its N side. The island is steep-to on its SE side but a reef extends 1½ miles NW from the NW side. The island has a small hospital. Lagoon.There is a small lagoon formed by the reef on the NW side of the island, and entrance to which, is about 5 cables NW of the NE point of the island. 2 Useful marks: Kaashidhoo Light (black cylindrical daymarkday mark on grey framework tower, 12 m in height) (04º 57'.5N, 073º 28'.5E) stands near the E extremity of the island. Radio mast (red and white bands, obstruction light), not charted, stands near the middle of the island. Goidhoo Atoll(Horsburgh Atollatoll) Chart 265, 266, 2062 General information 2.320 1 Goidhoo Atoll atoll (04º 51'.00 N, 072º 55'.00 E), 10 miles long E to W and a max of 4½ miles wide, that lies near the SW end of KardivaKardiva Channel and is a small atoll. For administrative purposes, the atoll is considered to form part of the Maalhosmadulu group of atolls which lie N of it. A barrier reef, which is only broken on its S side, surrounds the atoll and encloses an extensive lagoon; it was reported that the shape of the reef changes periodically. Principal islets 2.321 1 Goidhoo (04º 52'.60 N, 072º 59'.93 E), is the largest of the atoll islets at the NE end of the atoll, it is wooded along its seaward side and there is considerable habitation on the N part of the islet. A boat channel crosses the reef N of Goidhoo Islet; a beacon near its seaward entrance indicates the channel. 2 Fehendhoo and Fulhadhoo lie 1 and 3 miles W of Goidhoo respectively; both islets are wooded and from seaward, the villages standing on their N sides are visible. Innafushi, an islet lies on the reef about 2¾ miles W of the W end of Fulhadhoo and is mostly covered with bush. 3 On the S side of the atoll, Maafushi and Fehenfushi lie W and E of the lagoon entrance respectively. It was reported that Fehenfushi was difficult to identify due to several uncharted sand banks, up to 1 m in height, which exist along the SE side of the reef. Lagoon 2.322 1 Though the lagoon is fringed with dangers however it is clear in the centreCentre. 2 The entrance into the lagoon lies between the islets of Maafushi(04º48´.97N, 72°53´.45E and Fehenfushi. Doru Channel (4º 48'.76 N, 72º 53'.62 E), the channel through this opening, lies towards its W side between the reef fringing Maafushi and Dhoruchannel Dhekunu Huraa, a low islet about 8 cables W of Fehenfushi; Dhoruchannel Dhekunu Huraa was reported as being submerged at high water. The channel with a least charted depth of 18.3 m, on the W side of the fairway, 2 cables ESE of Maafushi and is about ¾ cable wide at its narrowest part. A beacon (S cardinal) is reported to lie close ESE of Maafusi. 3 Depths are shoal and irregular in the opening E of Dhoruchannel Dhekunu Huraa. Directions 2.323 1 Caution. Vessels should attempt to enter the lagoon only through Doru Channel; it would be prudent to do conning from aloft. 2 Approach. The SE point of Fehendhoo Islet bearing about 052º leads, from seaward, towards Doru Channel.it is advisable to take care while passing through Doru channel. 3 Anchorage 2.329 1. Within the lagoon anchorage can be obtained in depths of about 27 to 42 m. There is a good holding ground of sand, mud and clay. SOUTH MAALHOSMADULU ATOLL Chart 265,266 Position 2.324 1 South Maalhosmadulu Atoll atoll (05º 15'.00 N, 073º 00'.00 E) lies N of Goidhoo Atoll and on the NW side of KardivaKardivaChannel. The atoll is oriented NE to SW 26 miles long and 17 miles wide. General description 2.325 1 South Maalhosmadulu Atoll atoll has number of reefs, many of which form individual lagoon atolls. There are several islets, most of which lie on the barrier reef on the SW side of the atoll. The lagoon though encumbered throughout with numerous coral reefs and isolated dangerous rocks, is deep. Fishing and weaving are the principal occupation of the inhabitants of the atoll. Western side of South Maalhosmadulu Atoll 2.326 1 Description. The barrier reef trends from the S end of Bodufinolhu Reef (05º 00'.00 N, 072º 51'.60 E), about 8 miles NNW to the W point of Maa Faru, then 13 miles NNE to Hani ChannelHani Kandu Faru; the reef comprises several large individual reefs, all separated by narrow channels, as shown on the chart. 2.327 1 Principal islet. Thulhaadhoo (05º 01'.40 N, 072º 50'.50 E) is the largest of the few islets on this side of the atoll, which lies on Bodufinolhu Reef, at its S end. 2.328 Useful mark: 1 Radio mast (red and white bands, obstruction light), not charted stands on Thulhaadhoo. 2 A light, not charted is exhibited from Ahivahfushi (05º 13'.86 N, 072º 51'.56 E). 23 Viligili Light (black cylindrical daymark on grey framework tower, 12 m in height) (05º 03'.8N, 072º 50'.5E) stands on Viligili Islet (uncharted). 2.329 1 Lagoon entrances. On this side of the atoll, the openings into the lagoon mostly lack convenient landmarks and their extremities are difficult to define. 2.330 1 Channel. The W opening, Kuda ChannelKuda Kandu (05º 17'.50 N, 072º 53'.50 E), to a deep channel that leads E to the NE side of the atoll. The channel gives access tonumerous islets in the N part of the lagoon on both its N and S sides. Other names 2.331 1 Western side of South Maalhosmadulu Atollatoll: Ahivahfushi (05º 13'.9 N, 072º 51'.5 E), an islet. Dhakandhoo (05º 15'.0 N, 072º 53'.6 E) an islet. Fares (05º 14'.0 N, 072º 52'.5 E) an islet. Kashi Faru (05º 14' N, 072º 52' E), a reef. South side of Kuda ChannelKuda Kanduolhi Funadhoo (05º 16'.5 N, 073º 02'.0 E), an islet. Kendhoo (05º 16'.5 N, 073º 00'.7 E), an islet. Undoodhoo (05º 16'.5 N, 073º 02'.7 E), an islet. North side of Kuda ChannelKuda Kandu olhi Boifushi (05º 18'.0 N, 072º 59'.7 E), an islet. Kashidhoogiri (05º 18'.0 N, 072º 58'.2 E), an islet. Kihavahhuruvalhi (05º 17'.8 N, 073º 03'.5 E), an islet. Kudarikilu (05º 18'.1N, 073º 04'.3 E), an islet. North-western side of South Maalhosmadulu Atollatoll 2.332 1 Description.The barrier reef extends from Hanichannel Faru (05º 18'.50 N, 072º 55'.00 E), 10 miles ENE to Gaagadufaruhuraa Reef, with Gaagadufaruhuraa lying near its E end; this side of the atoll forms the S side of Hani ChannelHani Kandu. 2.333 1 Principal islet. Maarikilu (05º 20'.00 N, 072º 57'.20 E) is the largest islet on this side of the atoll. 2.334 1 Lagoon entrances. Three deep entrances into the lagoon are marked by islets as shown on the chart. 2.335 1 Other names: Anhenunfushi (05º 20'.5 N, 072º 58'.1E), an islet. Dhigufaruvinagadu (05º 21'.1N, 072º 59'.5 E), an islet. South-eastern side of South Maalhosmadulu Atoll 2.336 1 Description. The barrier reef extends from Olhugiri (05º 00'.00 N, 072º 54'.40 E), along the NW side of KardivaKardiva Channel, 22 miles NE to Vandhoomaa Faru which forms the E point of the atoll. 2 Restricted area, is centered on a dangerous rock (05º 08'.83 N, 073º 02'.35 E). 2.337 1 Principal islands. A tourist resort, Kunfunadhoo (05º06'.75 N, 073º04'.60 E) and Daravandhoo, 4¼ miles NE, are the largest islands on this side of the atoll. Eydhafushi, (05º 06'.17 N, 073º04'.20 E), the capital and administrative centreCentre for south Maalhosmadulu atoll, has a small hospital and fishing harbour on its NE side. Within the lagoon there are several islands shown on the chart. 2 Useful marks: Radio mast (red and white bands), not charted, from which obstruction lights are exhibited, stands near the middle of Eydhafushi. A light, not charted is exhibited from E extremity of Vandhoomaa Faru. 2.338 1 Lagoon entrances. The widest opening into the lagoon, Maa ChannelMaa Kandu (05º 00'.00 N, 072º 53'.00 E), lies at the SW end of this side of the atoll, between Olhugiri Islet and Bodufinolhu Reef, about 1¾miles WNW; with a least charted depth of 12.5 m, over a rocky shoal situated in the middle of the fairway, the entrance is about 1½ miles wide. 2 On this side of the atoll there are several other openings into the lagoon. Some are deeper but narrower than the widest opening described above, whilst others are encumbered with rocks or shoals, as shown on the chart. 2.339 1 Anchorage. On the N side of Hitaadhoo (05º 00'.45 N, 072º 55'.34 E) anchorage can be obtained. 2.340 1 Other names: Eydhafushi (05º 06'.2 N, 073º 04'.2 E), an islet. Hibalhidhoo (05º 08'.5 N, 073º 07'.0 E), an islet. Kanifushi (05º 00'.8 N, 072º 57'.0 E), an islet. Maaddoo (05º 05'.6 N, 073º 03'.7 E), an islet. Maalhoss (05º 08'.1 N, 073º 06'.5 E), an islet. Maa Maduvvari (05º 00'.5N, 072º 56'.5E), an islet. North-eastern side of South Maalhosmadulu Atoll 2.341 1 Description. The barrier reef trends from the N end of Vandhoomaa Faru (05º 15'.0 N, 073º 11'.5 E), about 10 miles NW to Gaagadufaruhuraa; the reef is generally broken in its SE part but there are large areas of coral towards its N end. 2.342 1 Principal islets. On this side of the reef the largest islets are Kamadhoo (05º 17'.0 N, 073º 08'.1E) and Bathalaa 6 miles NW. There are a few islets within the lagoon near its SE part as shown on the chart. 2.343 1 Lagoon entrances. A wide and deep opening Kamadhoo Channel (05º 16'.60 N, 073º 09'.00 E), which enters the lagoon SE of Kamadhoo; its SE entrance point is marked by Madhirivaadhoo, 1½ miles ESE of Kamadhoo. 2 From E, Kudarikilu Channel (05º 17'.55 N, 073º 05'.00 E) gives access to the deep channel. The S entrance point of the opening is marked by Landaa Giraavaru which is surrounded by a reef that extends about 2¼ miles WSW. 3 Other openings into the lagoon on this side of the atoll are less well defined than those described above; their positions and dangers are shown on the chart. Other names 2.344 1 Aidhoo (05º 11'.2 N, 073º 09'.7 E), an islet. Hanifaruhuraa (05º 10'.5 N, 073º 09'.1E), an islet. Kudadhoo (05º 01'.8 N, 072º 59'.5 E), an islet. Miriyandhoo (05º 03'.8 N, 073º 01'.8 E), an islet. Hani ChannelHani Kandu Chart 265 General information 2.345 1 South Maalhosmadulu Atoll and North Maalhosmadulu Atoll atoll are separated by Hani ChannelHani Kandu (Moresby Channel) (05º 19' N, 072º 53' E); the channel is about 1¾ miles wide at its narrowest part and is deep and free from charted dangers. 2 Caution. The W entrance to this channel is difficult to identify as it has no wooded islet near it.The chart is sufficient guide for passage through this channel. NORTH MAALHOSMADULU ATOLL Chart 265 Position 2.346 1 North Maalhosmadulu Atoll atoll (05º 35'.00 N, 072º 55'.00 E) lies on the N side of Hani ChannelHani Kandu, is oriented N to S 35 miles long and a max of 16 miles wide. General description 2.347 1 North Maalhosmadulu Atoll atoll has large lagoon reefs forming its W side; the E side of the atoll consists of numerous islands and islets which are mostly separated by good passages into the lagoon. It is similar in character to South Maalhosmadulu Atollatoll. 2 Though deep, the lagoon is encumbered throughout with numerous coral reefs, particularly in its W central part, where navigation is impracticable in a large area because of the close proximity of coral reefs and rocks. Western side of North Maalhosmadulu Atollatoll Description 2.348 1 Description. The barrier reef extends from Maamunagaufinolhu (05º 20'.00 N, 072º 51'.80 E), the SW lagoon reef of the atoll, in a shallow bight 12½ miles NNW to Bodu Faru, which forms the W point of the atoll; the bight between these two reefs contains three large lagoon reefs, named from S to N, Fenfushi Faru, Maa Faru and Kukulhudhoo Faru. 2 The barrier reef trends from its W point, 24 miles NNE in a series of lagoon reefs, some of which have small islets standing upon them, to Maadooni Faru the lagoon reef at its N extremity. 2.355 13 Principal islet.Fuggiri (05º 43'.37 N, 072º 51'.33 E) is the largest islet on this side of the atoll. Within the lagoon there are a number of islands near the W and S parts of the atoll as shown on the chart. Useful mark 2.349 1 Useful mark: Bodufarufinolhu Light (black cylindrical daymark on grey framework tower, 12 m in height) (05º 31'.8 N, 072º 48'.0 E), stands on Bodu Faru about 6 cables NE of the reef edge. Vaffushi Light (black cylindrical daymark on grey framework tower, 12 m in height) (05º 38'.5N, 072º 50'.5E), stands on an islet near the W end of Vaffushihuraa. A light, not charted is exhibited from SW extremity of reef 2¼ miles S of Maamunagaufinolhu (05º 22'.09 N, 072º 52'.08 E).Another light, not charted is exhibited from Kukulhudhoo (05º 27'.55 N, 072º 52'.38 E). Radio mast (red and white bands), not charted, from which an obstruction light is exhibited, stands on Kandholhudhoo (05º 37'.12 N, 072º 51'.47 E) A light, not charted is exhibited from N extremity of Digu Faru (05º 27'.55 N, 072º 52'.38 E). 2.350 1 Lagoon entrances. On this side of the atoll the openings into the lagoon by and large lack convenient landmarks and their extremities are difficult to define and also the centre of the lagoon is unsafe for navigation. 2.351 1 Other names: Maamunagaufinolhu (05º 22'.l N, 072º 52'.1E), an islet. Maashigiri, (05º 30'. 8 N, 072º 49'. 7 E), an islet. South-eastern side of North Maalhosmadulu Atollatoll 2.352 1 Description. The barrier reef extends from Maamunagaufinolhu (05º 20'.00 N, 072º 51'.80 E), the SW lagoon reef of the atoll, about 12 miles ENE to Beriyan Faru, a lagoon reef situated at the SE corner of the atoll; this side of the atoll forms the N side of Hani ChannelHani Kandu. 2.353 1 Principal islets. On this side of the atoll there are a few islets, the largest ones being Maamunagau (05º 21'.6 N, 072º 55'.2 E) and Dheburidheythereyvaadhoo, 5 miles ENE. 2 Useful mark.Radio mast (red and white bands), not charted, from which an obstruction light is exhibited, stands on Meedhoo (05º 27'.50 N, 072º 57'.30 E). Eastern side of North Maalhosmadulu Atollatoll 2.354 1 Description. The barrier reef trends from Boduhuraa (05º 25'.63 N, 073º 01'.91 E), an islet lying on the SE side of Beriyan Faru, 29½ miles N to a rocky shoal lying near the N end of the atoll. 2 Allhuras Channel separates the N part of this side of the atoll from South Miladhunmadulu Atollatoll, 9 miles ENE. 2.355 1 Principal islands and islets. Number of similar islands and islets are situated on this side of the atoll; the principal ones are inhabited. Ugoofaru (05º 40'.07 N, 073º 01'.73 E), is the capital and administrative centreCentre of the atoll and it has a hospital. 2 Useful marks: A light, not charted is exhibited from Kottefaru (05º 30'.60 N, 073º 02'.46 E). Radio mast (red and white bands), not charted, from which an obstruction light is exhibited, stands on Innamaadhoo (05º 33'.00 N, 073º 02'.70 E). Radio mast (red and white bands), not charted), from which an obstruction light is exhibited, stands on Ugoofaaru. A light, not charted, is also exhibited from the islet. 2.356 1 Lagoon entrances. On this side of the atoll, there are several good entrances into the lagoon, many of which are well marked by the islands and islets; however, the channels with charted dangers are not recommended for use. 2 At the N end of the atoll, there is a wide entrance between the large lagoon reef extending NNW from Vaadhoo Island (05º 51'.4 N, 072º 59'.5 E) and Maadooni Faru, about 2¼ miles WNW. Except for a rocky shoal, with a depth of 7 m over it, lying 3½ miles NNW of Vaadhoo the opening is freefrom charted dangers; in the fairway W of the rocky shoal there is a charted depth of 40 m. 2.57 1 Anchorages. Safe anchorage for small craft can be found in the vicinity of Meedhoo (05º 27'.5N, 072º 57'.2 E) 2 Safe anchorage can be found between Vaadhoo (05º 51'.38 N, 072º 59'.44 E) and Maadooni Faru, about 2¼ miles WNW, or farther S in the lagoon Other names 2.358 1 The islands or islets listed below are positioned from Boduhuraa (05º 25'.5 N, 073º 02'.0 E) Agolhitheemu (22 miles N). Dhuvaafaru (12 miles N). Iguraidhoo(Inguraidhoo) (3 miles N). Innamaadhoo (7½ miles N). Kinolhas (1¼miles N). Maakurathu (10½ miles N). Rasgetheemu (23 miles N). Rasmaadhoo (8¼ miles N). Ugoofaaru (14½ miles N). Allhuras Channel Chart 265 General information 2.359 1 Allhuras Channel (Allhuras (Kandu) (05º 49'.00 N, 073º 05’.00 E), is deep and there are no charted dangers in it. It is located between North Maalhosmadulu atoll (05º35'.00N, 072º55’.00 E) and Miladhunmadulu Atolls, 8 miles ENE and free from known dangers. Powell Islands Chart 265 General information 2.360 1 Powell Islands (05º 58'.00 N, 072º 57'.00 E) consist of the islands of Alifushi and Eththigili which are joined by a reef 2 miles long and 9 cables wide, situated off the N end of North MaalhosmaduluAtoll. The channel between the Powell Islands and Maadooni Faru, about 3 miles SSW, is deep and free from known dangers. 2 Useful mark. A light, not charted, is exhibited from N side of Alifushi. MAAMAKUNUDHOO ATOLL Chart 265 Position 2.361 1 Maamakunudhoo Atoll atoll (06º 20'.00 N, 072º 38'.00 E), lies about 25 miles NW of the Powell Islands, there is deep water between the two features. The atoll was previously known as Malcolm Atollatoll. 2.362 1 Description. The atoll is about 15 miles long, up to 4 miles wide and consists of a large reef encircling a lagoon; it is orientated SSW/NNE. 2 There is some vegetation on the islands in the N and NE parts however S and W sides of the atoll are barren with only the surf to indicate their outline. 3 Theatoll is included with South Thiladhunmathee Atoll for administrative purposes. 2.363 1 Principal Island and Islets.The NE point of the atoll is well defined by Makunudhoo (06º 24'.4N, 072º 42'.4 E), which is heavily inhabited on its NW side; the main occupations of the inhabitants are fishing and agriculture. Through the reef on the E side of Makunudhoo, there is a channel, marked by a beacon; a narrow channel, marked by stakes, continues N then W between the reef and the island to the vicinity of the village. These channels are suitable for local small craft only. 2 Innafushi (06º 24'.33 N, 072º 38'.77 E) marks the NW point of the atoll and there are two small islets marking the approximate midpoint of its E side. 2.364 1 Useful marks. Makunudhoo Light (black cylindrical day mark on grey framework tower, 12m in height) (06º 24'.42 N, 072º 42'.60 E) stands on Makunudhoo close S of its NE point (not charted). A radio mast (not charted) stands on Makunudhoo. Light not charted are exhibited from Innafushi and the W extremity of atoll. 2.365 1 Lagoon entrances. On the E face of the reef there are two openings which can be used by boats only; local knowledge is considered essential before an entry is attempted. 2.366 1 Other names: Edipparufushi (Dipparufushi) (06º 19'.0 N, 072º 38'.6 E), an islet. Farudhoru (06º 19'.8 N, 072º 39'.l E), an islet. Fenboahuraa (06º 23'.5 N, 072º 41'.7 E), an islet. CENTRAL ROUTE Passage directions for central route Charts 23,265 2.367 1 The route leads 27 miles NNE across KardivaKardiva Channel, from the vicinity of (4º 40'.00 N, 73º11'.00 E) passing between Goidhoo Atoll and Kaashidhoo. 2 The route leads from the vicinity of (05º 05'.00 N, 073º 22'.00 E), about 100 miles NNW between the atolls of the West Group (described previously) and the East Group (described later), then 40 miles N to Eight Degree Channel. The central channel isabout 7 miles wide at itsnarrowest part, situated near the N end of Allhuras Channel, NE of the Powell Islands. The route is deep and sheltered from ocean swell. There are no charted dangers between the atolls. The chart is sufficient guide for this route. EAST GROUP OF ATOLLS INCLUDING CHANNELS AND DIRECTIONS Passage directions east of atolls Charts 265,266,273 2.368 1 The passage leads direct NNW from a position NE of Male Atoll (04º 25' N, 073º 30' E) for about 190 miles, passing: 2 ENE of Faadhippolhu Atoll atoll (05º 24'.00 N, 073º 30'.00 E), then to: ENE of South Miladhunmadulu Atoll atoll (05º 50'.00 N, 073º 20'.00 E), then to: ENE of North Miladhunmadulu Atoll atoll (06º 17'.00 N, 073º 08'.00 E), then to: 3 ENE of South Thiladhunmathee Atoll atoll (06º 38'.00 N, 073º 00'.00 E), then to: ENE of North Thiladhunmathee Atoll atoll (06º 55'.00 N, 073º 10'.00 E) then to: ENE of Ihavandhippolhu Atoll atoll (07º 00'.00 N, 072º 55'.00 E), and: 4 To a position in Eight Degree Channel (2.471) from where vessels may steer to pass E or W of Minicoy Island (08º 16' N, 073º 03' E) (2.489) as required. FAADHIPPOLHU ATOLL Chart 265 Position 2.369 1 Faadhippolhu Atoll (05º 24'.00 N, 073º 30'.00 E) lies N of the E end of KardivaKardiva Channel, is oriented NW/SE is 19½ miles long and a maximum of 15 miles wide. General description 2.370 1 Faadhippolhu Atoll has a number of islets which are situated on all sides. There are moderate depths in the lagoon and it has sandy bottom; with many drying reefs and several below-water coral reefs with depths of 1.8 to 3.7 m over them. 2 Sail weaving and coir making are the main occupations of the inhabitants. There are fish processing plants and holiday resorts on some of the larger islets. 3 Restricted areas: Kur channellhi (5º 33'.30 N, 73º28'.70 E), N’most entrance. Fushifaru channel (5º 29'70 N, 73º31'.60 E), on the NE side. Tidal streams 2.371 1 In Faadhippolhu Atollatoll, strong tidal streams set through the openings into the lagoon. South-eastern side of Faadhippolhu Atoll 2.372 1 Description. The barrier reef, which is unbroken, extends from Aligau (05º 14'.70 N, 073º 31'.10 E), about8 miles ENE to its SE point then 9 miles N to Selhihifushi (05º 25'.60 N, 073º 38'.40 N) 2 In the NE monsoon season the sea breaks heavily upon the seaward face of this stretch of reef, on which, coral rock and sandbanks appear at low water. 2.373 1 Principal islets. On the S part of the reef Olhuvelifushi (05º 16'.80 N, 073º 36'.30 E) is the largest islet. Maabinhuraa and Diffushi are the largest islets on its N part, and lie respectively, 4½ miles NE and 7 miles NNE of Olhuvelifushi; the names and positions of the many smaller islets on this reef are shown on the chart. 2.374 Useful marks: 1 Lights, not charted are exhibited from Aligau,N end of Selhlhifushi and on the SE extremity 6 cables SE of Ookolhufinolhu (05º 17'.08 N, 073º 37'.30 E). North-eastern side of Faadhippolhu Atollatoll 2.375 1 Description. The barrier reef trends from Faadhoo (05º 26'.00 N, 073º 37'.80 E), about 12 miles NW to Fehigili; the reef is broken in several places on this side of the atoll. 2 Principal islet. On this side of the atoll Madhiriguraidhoo (05º 28'.10 N, 073º 33'.90 E) is the largest islet. 2.376 1 Lagoon entrances. On this side of the atoll there are numerous openings into the lagoon, but most are narrow, tortuous and not recommended. 2.384 12 Other name.Fushifaru (05º 29'.4 N, 073º 31'.2 E), an islet. South-western side of Faadhippolhu Atoll 2.377 1 Description. The barrier reef recedes in a curve form Aligau (05º 14'.70 N, 073º 31'.10 E) and trends about 13 miles NW to Kanifushi, an islet which projects sharply to form the W point of the atoll. On this side of the atoll there are wide openings in several places. 2.386 12 Principal islet. On this side of the atoll Kurendhoo (05º 20'.00 N, 073º 28'.00 E) is one of the largest islets and inhabited, and has a small harbour on its lagoon side. 2.378 1 Lagoon entrances. There is a wide opening into the lagoon between Aligau (05º 14'.70 N, 073º 31'.10 E) and Lhossalafushi, 4½ miles NNW; the islet of Maduvvari (05º17'.20 N, 073º 30'.30 E), with a reef on its seaward side and a small jetty on its lagoon side, lies close NNW of the middle of the opening; Varihuraa, about 1¼ miles NW of Maduvvari, indicates the N entrance point of this wide opening. 2 On each side of Lhohi (05º 19'.35 N, 073º 28'.60 E) there are narrow openings into the lagoon; each fairway has a least charted depth of 55 m. 3 Between Kurendhoo (05º 20'.00 N, 073º 28'.00E) and Medhafushi 2½ miles NW, Maa ChannelMaa Kanduolhi (05º 21'.00 N, 073º 27'.00 E) enters the lagoon, its fairway, which is about 5 cables wide, has a least charted depth of 64 m and lies near the centre of the opening; there are shoal patches on each side of the fairway which extend from the above islets. 4 Beetween Meedhaahuraa (05º 22'.20 N, 073º 24'.60 E) and Dhidhdhoo 1½ miles WNW, Olhukolhu, the NW-most opening on this side of the atoll, enters the lagoon,; there is a least charted depth of 27 m in its narrow fairway which passes SE of two other small islets lying close within the lagoon. 2.379 1 Useful mark.Kanifushi Light (black cylindrical daymark on grey framework tower, 12 m in height) (05º 21'.9 N, 073º 20'.2 E) stands on Kanifushi (uncharted). 2.380 1 Landing place. A large islet Maafilaafushi (05º 22' N, 073º 25' E), has a small jetty on its lagoon side. North-western side of Faadhippolhu Atollatoll 2.381 1 Description. The barrier reef trends from Kanifushi (05º 2l'.90 N, 073º 20'.20 E), about l4½ miles NE to Kur Channelolhi an opening near the N extremity of the atoll; on this side of the atoll the reef is broken in several places. 2.382 Principal islands. 1 Naifaru (05º 26'.60 N, 073º 22'.10 E), is the capital and administrative centreCentre of the atoll. There is a fishing harbour on the E side and a small hospital stands 1½ km S of the N extremity. 2 The island ofFelivaru (05º 28'.60 N, 073º 23'.40 E) has a small harbour that serves a fish factory. The factory, blue in colour, stands near the middle of the SE side of the island. The harbour comprises a small pier and a slipway which are protected from SW by a breakwater that extends about 2 cables from the shore in the vicinity of the fish factory. 3 Near the N point of the atoll, Kuredhdhoo (05º 33'.00 N, 073º 28'.10 E) an island, provides a tourist resort. There is a long jetty on the S side of the island near its mid-point. 2.383 1 Lagoon entrances. Between Kuredhdhoo and Fehigili, at the N end of the atoll Kur Channelolhi(05º 33'.5 N, 073º 28'.8 E) enters the lagoon. The opening is about 3 cables wide and there is a least charted depth of 14.5 m at its inner end; about 7½ cables within the entrance there are a number of reefs lying across the fairway. 2 On this side of the atoll there are several other openings into the lagoon, but most are narrow, tortuous and not recommended. 2.384 1 Landmarks: . Radio mast (red and white bands, obstruction lights), not charted, standing among a number of houses in the vicinity of the fish vicinity of the fish factory at Felivaru. 2 Two white houses standing on the SW extremity of Felivaru Island (05º 28'.5 N, 073º 23'.4 E) aid its identification. 23 Useful mark.A small stranded wreck lies near the S end of Gaaerifaru (uncharted) (05º 29'.2 N, 073º 24'.4 E). 2.385 1 Other names: Huravalhi (05º 31'.3 N, 073º 26'.6 E), an islet. Madivaru (05º 27'.5 N, 073º 22'.4 E), an islet. Naifaru (05º 26'.7 N, 073º 22'.2 E), an islet. Vavvaru (05º 25'.1 N, 073º 21'.4 E), an islet. Baraveli ChannelBaraveli Kandu Chart 265 General information 2.386 1 Faadhippolhu Atoll and South Miladhunmadulu Atoll are separated by Baraveli ChannelBaraveli Kandu (05º 35'.00 N, 073º 23'.00 E); the channel is about 8 miles wide at its narrowest part and is deep and free from charted dangers. 2 The chart is sufficient guide for passage through this channel. MILADHUNMADULU ATOLLS AND THILADHUNMATHEE ATOLLS General administration Chart 265 2.387 1 Miladhunmadulu Atolls atolls and Thiladhunmathee Atolls atolls form a single extensive atoll which is divided into four parts for administrative purposes; South and North Miladhunmadulu Atolls atolls together with South and North Thiladhunmathee Atollsatolls. The district of North Thiladhunmathee includes Ihavandhippolhu Atoll atoll for administrative purpose, and the district of South Thiladhunmathee includes Maamakunudhoo Atoll atoll for the same purposes. Miladhunmadulu Atollsatolls Chart 265 General information 2.388 1 Position.OnN of Baraveli ChannelBaraveli Kandu and E of Allhuras Channel, lie South Miladhunmadulu Atoll atoll (05º 50'.00 N, 073º 20'.00 E) and North Miladhunmadulu Atoll atoll (06º 17'.00 N, 073º 08'.00 E); they are separated from Thiladhunmathee Atolls atolls by a channel, forming a natural boundary, that follows approximately the parallel of 06º 29'.00 N. 2.389 1 Description.There are about 100 islands and islets on Miladhunmadulu Atolls atolls lying mainly on their E sides. Many of these are inhabited, as shown on the chart. 2 Almost all of the islands are wooded mainly with coconut trees. 3 The lagoon is less encumbered with dangers than most other atolls in the Maldives and has generally moderate depths. The bottom is sand with clay in places. 2.390 1 Tidal streams set ENE when in-going and WSW when out-going and attain a rate of 1½ to 2 kts at springs However the prevailing monsoon currents have a greater influence. 2.391 1 Directions.In favourable daylight conditions, the lagoon can be navigated with ease as there are few dangers, especially in the N part; however it is recommended that the vessel should be conned from aloft. The chart is sufficient guide for the routes between the dangers. 2.392 1 Description. The barrier reef trends from Dhonaerikadoodhoo (05º 38'.70 N, 073º 19'.80 E), about 14 miles NE to Maafaru (05º 49'.50 N, 073º 28'.80 E), an island which occupies the S part of a large lagoon reef that forms the E extremity of the atolls. On this side of the atolls there are several wide breaks in the barrier reef. 2.402 12 Principal Island. Manadhoo (05º 45'.70 N, 073º 24'.60 E), a densely populated island, lies close within the lagoon. The main village and many public buildings are located near the centre of the N side of the island. The island is covered with vegetation, including coconut trees, banyan tree, breadfruit and almond trees. 23 A channel extends the whole length of the N side of the island, mainly used by boats, but the passage is narrow, with a depth of about 1.8 m, and fringed by large boulders of coral rock; within the reef there is a deep channel, from 18 to 27 m wide, which run along the beach. 2.393 1 Lagoon entrances.On this side of the atolls there are wide and deep entrances into the lagoon; the detail of these openings is shown on the chart. 2.394 1 Anchorages.According to the season, good anchorage may be obtained on the N or S sides of Manadhoo. 2 In the lagoon, small craft may anchor on the W side of Maafaru; a channel to this anchorage is marked by buoys and stakes. 2.395 1 Other name.Miladhoo (5º 47'.3 N, 73º 21'.7 E), an islet. Eastern side of Miladhunmadulu Atolls 2.396 1 Description.The barrier reef trends from Maafaru (05º 49'.7 N, 073º 28'.8 E), about 45 miles NW to Neyo that marks the NE corner of Miladhunmadulu Atollsatolls. The reef is broken in numerous places. 2.397 1 Principal islands and islets. On this side of the atolls and within the lagoon many islands and islets are inhabited. 2.398 1 Lagoon entrances. Lying S of Kedhikulhudhoo near the SE end of this side of the atolls, Kulhudhoo Channel (05º 55'.5 N, 073º 26'.0 E) is about 7 cables wide, considered safe and is well identified. 2 With a least charted depth of 37 m near its mid-point, Noomara Channel (06º 23' N, 073º 07' E) is about 9½ miles wide; the entrance lies between Feevah and Noomara which define, respectively, its ESE and WNW entrance points. 2.399 1 Channel.BetweenMiladhunmadulu Atolls atolls and Thiladhunmathee Atollsatolls, Maavaidhoo Channel (06º 29' N, 073º 03' E) forms the E entrance to the channel. This entrance is about 3½ miles wide with a least charted depth of 37 m; it is well defined by Neyo Islet and Maavaidhoo Islet, 4 miles N, marking respectively the S and N entrance points. The channel leads W, passing S of an unmarked shoal patch near the middle of the atoll, and then between a reef and another unmarked shoal with rocky patches at its W entrance. The W entrance is about 1 mile wide and has a least charted depth of 14.5 m in its fairway and is less well defined than the E entrance. Other names 2.400 1 The islands orislets listed below are positioned from Farukolhufunadhoo (06º 09'.0 N, 073º 17'.3 E): Bodulhaimendhoo (9 miles S). Bomasdhoo (11 miles SSE). Burehifasdhoo (12 miles SSE). Ekasdhoo (4¾ miles S). Eriyadhoo (2½ miles S). Farukolhu (2½ miles NNE). Foakaidhoo (l3½ miles NNW). Hebadhoo (12½ miles SSE). Hirubadhoo (3½ miles NW). Kalaidhoo (10¼miles SSE). Kudalhaimendhoo (8 miles S). Lhaimagu (2½ miles WNW). Maakadoodhoo(Maakandoodhoo) (5¼ miles NNW). Maaugoodhoo (6¾ miles S). Migoodhoo (5½ miles NNW). Milandhoo (8¾ miles NNW). Nalandhoo (11 miles NNW). Western side of Miladhunmadulu Atollsatolls 2.401 1 Description.The barrier reef trends from Raafushi Island (Island (05º 38'.80 N, 073º 17'.80 E), about 57 miles NNW to the W entrance of the channel that separates Miladhunmadulu Atolls atolls and Thiladhunmathee Atollsatolls. The reef is broken in numerous places. The barrier reef comprises several large lagoon reefs and a number of small reefs on most of which stand small islets. 2.412 12 Principal islands and islets.On this side of the atolls and within the lagoon some of the islands and islets are inhabited as shown on the chart. 2.413 13 Lagoon entrances.On this side of the atolls there are some wide and deep entrances into the lagoon, the detail of which is shown on the chart; while navigating in these channels it is recommended that the vessel should be conned from aloft. Useful marks 2.402 1 Useful marks. Raafushi Light (black cylindrical daymark on greyframework tower, 12 m in height) (05º 38'.87 N, 073º 17'.43 E) stands near the WNW edge of the reef that encircles Raafushi Island (uncharted). 2 Radio mast (red and white bands, obstruction light), not charted, stands on Velidhoo (05º39'.70N, 073º16'.20E) and Holhudhoo (05º45'.30N, 73º15'.60E). A light, not charted is, exhibited from close S of Fodhdhipparu (05º 45'.10 N, 073º 12'.40 E) 3 Light beacon no 12 (grey framework tower on concrete base, 5 m in height)(06º10'.55N, 72º59'.56E) stands near the NW end of the Gaagandu faru. 4 Radio mast (red and white bands, obstruction light), not charted, stands on Kanditeem (06º26'.30N, 072º55'.00E). 5 Light, not charted is exhibited from W side of S part of Gonaa Faru (06º27'.70N, 072º52'.70E) 2.403 1 Berth.A smallcraft harbour has been constructed on the N coast of Kanditeem. Other names 2.404 1 The islands, islets and one reef listed below are positioned from Komandoo (06º 03'.2 N, 073º 03'.3 E): Badaidhidhdhoo (25¼ miles SSE). Bileffahi (17¾ miles NNW). Bolissa Faru (5 miles SE), a reef. Fodhdhoo (21 miles SSE). Gaakoshinbi (14½ miles N). Gallaidhoo (6½ miles SE). Goidhoo (23¾ miles NNW). Holhudhoo (21¾ miles SE). Hurasfaruhuraa (5¼ miles NNW). Maavelavaru (16½ miles SSE). Maroshi (9¼ miles N). Medhukuburudhoo (8¾ miles N). Thaburudhoo (23 miles SSE). Thiladhunmathee Atollsatolls Chart 265 General information 2.405 1 Position.Both the South Thiladhunmathee Atollatoll(06º38'.00N, 073º00'.00E)and North Thiladhunmathee Atollatoll(06º55'.00N, 073º10'.00E)lieN of a channel that follows approximately the parallel of 6º 29'.00N; the channel forms a natural boundary separating these atolls from Miladhunmadulu Atolls atolls to the S. 2 The atolls, oriented NNE/SSW, are 38 miles long and a maximum of 14 miles wide. 2.406 1 Description.There areabout 40 islands and islets in Thiladhunmathee Atolls, lying mainly on their E sides; the islands and islets are generally larger and lie farther apart, providing good openings into the lagoon, compared with other atolls of the Maldives. Many of the islands are inhabited. 2 On the W side of the atolls, there are numerous reefs including some lagoon reefs, which form the barrier reef; there are openings into the lagoon through this barrier reef which are navigable, it is better to avoid them due to lack of identification marks to locate them. 3 The lagoon is less encumbered with dangers than most other atolls in the Maldives and has generally moderate depths. 2.407 1 Directions. In favourable daylight conditions the lagoon can be navigated with ease for there are few dangers, but it is recommended that the vessel should be conned from aloft. The chart is sufficient guide for the routes between the dangers. Eastern side of Thiladhunmathee Atolls atolls 2.408 1 Description.The string of islands and islets, from Maavaidhoo (06º31'.00N, 073º03'.00E), forming the E side of the atolls, it recedes in a curve and then trends N for a total of 28½ miles NNE to Kelaa, an island marking the NE extremity of the atolls. 2.409 1 Principal islands and islets. On this side of the atolls, all of the islands and islets, some of those within the lagoon are inhabited, many are densely populated as shown on the chart. 2 There is a large village on Kulhudhuffushi (06º 37'.5N, 073º 04'.0 E) which is fronted on its W side by a sandy beach and a lagoon enclosed by a coral reef; within the reef is a small harbour. Stakes marks the boat channel leading to the harbour; it has been previously reported to be wider and deeper than those usually found in this area. 3 There is a large domestic airfield on Hanimaadhoo (06º45'.00N, 073º10'.00E) which facilitates flights to and from Male. There are two landing stages on the W side of the island; the N landing can accommodate small craft with a draught of about 2.5 m; the S landing is reported to be fragile. 4 There are several large public buildings on Kelaa (06º57'.50N, 073º12'.80E) which is well populated. At the N end of the W side of the island, there is a landing stage. 2.422 Useful marks 2.410 1 Radio mast (red and white bands, obstruction light), notcharted stands on Neykurendhoo (06º32'.50N, 072º58'.70E). Radio mast (red and white bands, obstruction light), notcharted stands on Kulhudhuffushi (06º37'.50N, 073º04'.00E). 2 A light, not charted is exhibited from S extremity of Hanimaadhoo (06º45'.00N, 073º10'.00E). 3 Radio mast (red and white bands, obstruction light), notcharted, stands on Hanimaadhoo. 4 Radio mast (red and white bands, obstruction light), not charted stands on Filladhoo (06º53'.00N, 073º13'.50E). 5 Light on Kelaa (06º57'.50N, 073º12'.80E). 36 Stranded wreck (06º52'.49N, 073º13'.86 E) lying on the SE point of Filladhoo was reported to be visible at a distance of about 5 miles. 2.411 1 Lagoon entrances.On this side of the atolls there are several safe channels leading into the lagoon, the detail of these openings is shown on the chart. When navigating these channels it is recommended that the vessel should be conned from aloft. 2 Near the N end of this side of the atolls, Maa ChannelMaa Kanduolhi (06º5l'.00N, 073º13'.00E) is a wide channel, but it should be noted that several rocky patches encumber its fairway. Other names 2.412 1 The islands listed below are positioned from Kumundhoo Island (06º 34'.5 N, 073º 03'.0 E): Neykurendhoo (4½ miles WSW). Nolhivaramu (5½ miles NNE). Nolhivaranfaru (8½ miles NNE). Western side of Thiladhunmathee Atollsatolls 2.413 1 Description.The barrier reef extends from the W entrance of the channel. (06º30'.00N,072º53'.00E) that forms the boundary with Miladhunmadulu Atolls atolls to the S, about 21 miles N to Maaduni Faru, a lagoon reef which forms the NW-corner of the atolls. The barrier reef comprises a large shoal with rocky patches lying close N of the boundary, some large lagoon reefs, and a number of other reefs, on most of which stand small islets. 2.426 12 Principal islands. Standing on a circular reef, Vaikaramuraidhoo (06º32'.50N, 072º 54'.00E), has a landing jetty on its S side. 23 There is a small village on Vaikaradhoo (06º32'.80N, 72º57'.20E), with a few public buildings and a landing jetty, on its N side. 2.414 1 Lagoon entrances.On this side of the atolls there are several channels leading into the lagoon but only Ruffushi Channel (06º48'.00N,072º57'.00 E) should be considered for navigation; this opening is about 3¼ miles wide with a least charted depth of 31 m towards the N part of its fairway. A small islet, Ruffushi, standing on a reef close S of the S entrance point of the opening, aids its identification; however, the point should be given a wide berth. 2.415 Useful mark: 1 Light-beacon No 13 (grey framework tower on concretebase, 5 m in height) (06º35'.80N, 072º52'.51E) stands near the NW end of Adharan Faru. 2 Light, not charted is exhibited from ruffushi (06º45'.55N, 072º56'.25E). 2.416 1 Other names.Bodunaagoashi (06º 40'.2N, 072º 54'.3E), an island.Naivaadhoo (06º 44'.8 N, 072º 56'.0 E), an island. North-western side of Thiladhunmathee Atolls 2.417 1 Description.The barrier reef bordering the S side of Gallandhoo Channel, from Maaduni Faru (06º50'.00N, 72º57'.00E), recedes in a curve and trends 17 miles ENE to Kelaa. The barrier reef comprises some large lagoon reefs and a number of other reefs on most of which stand islands or islets. 2.431 12 Principal islands. Thakandhoo Island lying close SE of Maarandhoo Island (06º51'.23 N, 072º59'.00E) and both are inhabited; Dhidhdhoo, 8 miles ENE of Maarandhoo, is also inhabited and near the midpoint of its W side there is a landing jetty. Dhidhdhoo is the capital and administrative centre for north Thiladhunmathee atoll and Ihavandhippolhu atoll. 2.432 13 Lagoon entrances. On this side of the atolls there are several channels leading into the lagoon; those near the WSW end are well defined by islands as shown on the chart. Gaafushi Channel (06º52'.00N, 073º04'.00 E) is the widest entrance with a least charted depth of 38 m in its fairway, but it is marked only by Gaafushi, a small islet, lying near its W entrance point;, about 1¾ miles ENE of Gaafushi, an unmarked reef forms the E entrance point. Small craft may be encountered in the vicinity of Dhonakulhi (06º50'.70N, 073º02'.90 E), where there is a resort; a marina is proposed. Useful marks: 2.418Useful marks: 1 Radio mast (red and white bands, obstruction light), not charted stands on Dhidhdhoo (06º53'.40N, 073º06'.60E). 2 Alight, not charted is exhibited from N extremity of Kelaa (06º57'.94N, 073º12'.74E). 3 Light-beacon No 16 (grey framework tower, 5 m in height) (06º56'.00N, 073º09'.00E) stands near the NE point of a lagoon which extends 3 miles NW from Vashafaru (uncharted). 4 Stranded wreck (06º57'.50N, 073º11'.00E). Near the edge of the reef W of Kelaa. 2.419 1 Lagoon reef entrances.On NW of Vashafaru Islet (06º54'.00N, 073º09'.50E), there is a small boat passage into the lagoon reef; the passage enters the lagoon about 1 mile N of the island and is marked by stakes. An unmarked passage, enters the SW side of the lagoon which lies SW of Kelaa Island (06º57'.94N, 073º12'.74E). 2.420 1 Other name.Mulidhoo (06º 50'.3 N, 073º 00’.7 E), an island. Gallandhoo Channel Charts 265, 2065 General information 2.421 1 Gallandhoo Channel (06º54'.00N, 073º00'.00E) lie between North Thiladhunmathee Atoll atoll and Ihavandhi-ppolhu Atollatoll; at its narrowest part the channel is about 3 miles wide; is deep and free from charted dangers in the fairway. Entrances on each side of the channel lead into the lagoons where anchorage may be found. 2 Through Gallandhoo Channel tidal streams set ENE when in-going and WSW when out-going.The chart is sufficient guide for passage through this channel. IHAVANDHIPPOLHU ATOLL Chart 2065 Position 2.422 1 Ihavandhippolhu Atollatoll, is the N atoll of the Maldive Group and lies on the N side of Gallandhoo Channel. General description 2.423 1 There are about 24 islands or islets on Ihavandhippolhu Atollatoll, mostly small with the largest barely 1½ miles long; the majority of the islands are heavily wooded and lie along the circumference of the barrier reef. About seven of the islands are inhabited. The main occupations of the inhabitants are fishing and coconut cultivation. 2 The atoll is included in the district of North Thiladhunmathee Atoll atoll for administrative purposes. 3 Four islands, some shoals and a number of isolated reefs forms the central lagoon, of which, Rasfushifaru Reef (07º 0l'.7 N, 072º 56'.0 E) has two drying rocks; the names and positions of the islands and other dangers are shown on the chart. There are general depths of 35 to 50 m in the E half and from 20 to 35 m in the W half of the lagoon; but in both parts, the latter particularly, there are many unnamed isolated shoal patches and continuous shoaling in the SW, W and NW parts from near its centrecenter to the surrounding barrier reef. 4 When the sky is overcast the shoals described above are not so readily identifiable whereas with the sun high these can easily be seen, from the bridge or aloft, showing pale green against the dark deeper water.Communication with the other atolls is by boat, but there is no regular service. Currents and tidal streams 2.424 1 At Ihavandhippolhu Atoll atoll tidal streams do not appear to follow any regular pattern and currents are only experienced occasionally, probably entirely under the influence of local weather conditions. The following isolated observations have been made previously: 2 Within the lagoon. A aW set between Madulu (07º 03'.4N, 072º 57'.1 E) and Uligamu, 2 miles NW; and a NW set between Uligamu and Vagaaru, 5 miles WNW of Madulu, were sometimes experienced in December and January. In the centre of the lagoon, during the same period, there was an occasional NW set. In the vicinity of anchorage the current generally sets N or W but it is irregular during December and January. 3 Offshore. about 50 miles E of the atoll, the current was once observed to set N with a rate of 2 kts in December; but one month later there was almost no current in this position. North-eastern part of Ihavandhippolhu Atollatoll 2.425 1 Caution.Some of the areas surrounding this part of the atoll which have not been surveyed therefore mariners are advised to give these areas a wide berth. 2.441 12 Description.The barrier reef extends from Dhigufaruhuraa (06º 55'.7N, 072º 58'.1E) a small islet with a sandbank and palm trees, about 5¼ miles NNE to Mulhadhoo then 8½ miles NW to Thuraakunu, the N island of the atoll, from where it curves 1½ miles WSW to Vagaaru Island. The reef comprises of a number of islands and two large lagoon reefs and is broken in several places. 2.426 1 Principal islands.There is a village on W side of Mulhadhoo (07º 00’.7 N, 072º 59'.9 E); a boat passage leads through an otherwise almost unbroken reef surrounding the village where there is a good landing. 2 The island of Uligamu (07º 05'.0 N, 072º 55'.7 E) is low, flat and thickly wooded. The inner side of the reef encircling the island is separated from the shore and forms a lagoon; there are two openings in the reef through which fishing boats may enter the atoll lagoon to land on the beach. Near the centrecenter of the island there is a village which is surrounded by coconut trees and breadfruit trees. 3 On N side of Thuraakunu (07º 06'.4 N, 072º 54'.0 E) there is a village; landing can be effected through a gap in the encircling reef on the S side of the island. 4 A small island near the N end of the atoll, Vagaaru (07º 05'.7 N, 072º 52'.7 E), is low and well wooded. The island is surrounded by a reef which narrows on its SE side where there is a good landing place; however sometimes landing becomes hazardous due moderate surf. 2.427 1 Lagoon entrances. On this part of the atoll there are several channels leading into the lagoon but those in the S part, lying S and N of Gallandhoo (06º 57' N, 072º 59' E) and the channel N of Kurolhi, a shoal 1¼ miles N of Gallandhoo, have not been surveyed and therefore not recommended for use without local knowledge. 2 Between Filaafuni (06º 58'.8 N, 072º 59'.0 E), a shoal, and Mulhadhoo, 1¾miles NNE, Mulhadhoo Channel (06º 59'.5 N, 072º 59'.5 E) enters the lagoon; the opening is about 1½ miles wide with a least charted depth of 31 m in the S part of the fairway. Vessels approaching the atoll from SE or E and using this entrance should bring the NE point of Medhafushi Islet (07º 00'.8 N, 072º 56'.0 E) to bear 287º and keep it so, passing about 7 cables off Mulhadhoo, then when the S end of the latter island bears 070º steer as required to anchorage. 3 There is an alternative entrance, Uligamu Channel (07º 04'.2N, 072º 56'.4E), for vessels approaching the atoll from E or from NE; the opening lies between Madulu and Uligamu; it is about 1¼ miles wide with a least charted depth of 35 m in the middle of the fairway but lesser depths will be found on each side. 4 With a least charted depth of 20.1 m in the middle of its fairway, Vagaaru Channel (07º 06'.4 N, 072º 53'.1E) is the deepest opening, in the N part of the atoll and lies between Thuraakunu and Vagaaru. The entrance is fairly well marked and the edges of the reefs on each side of the passage can be seen from aloft at a good distance. Within the lagoon, shoal depths do not encumber this entrance; however, it is less wide than the openings in the reef on each side of it. Useful marks 2.428 Useful marks. 1 Light, notcharted is exhibited from dhigufaruhuraa (06º55'.20N, 072º 58'.10E). 2 There is a beacon (07º 05'.2 N, 072º 55'.8 E) on the reef on the E side of Uligamu about 9 cables SE of its N point, the position of this beacon is approximate. 3 Thuraakunu Light (07º 06'.5 N, 072º 53'.5 E) stands near the NW extremity of the reef fringing Thuraakunu (uncharted). South-western part of Ihavandhippolhu Atollatoll 2.429 1 Caution. Some of the areas surrounding this part of the atoll which have not been surveyed therefore mariners are advised to give these areas a wide berth. 2.446 12 Description.The reef curves from Dhigufaruhuraa (06º 55'.7 N, 072º 58'.1E), WSW and NW for a total of about 4½ miles to Huvahandhoo Channel. Dhigu Faru, a reef surrounded by a very shallow area with numerous coral heads, forms the S point of the atoll. The barrier reef trends 9 miles NW from Huvahandhoo (06º 57'.5 N, 072º 54'.3 E), an island on the NW side of Huvahandhoo Channel, to the W point of the the atoll where it then curves to Vagaaru Island about 5½ miles ENE. The reef lies between the S end of Huvahandhoo Island and Farukolhu Channel (07º 05'.8 N, 072º 51'.5 E), W of Vagaaru Island, and is unbroken with a number of islands and islets lying inside it and all except one lie on its SW side. 2.447 13 Principal islands.Ihavandhoo (06º 57'.3 N, 072º 55'.6 E), lies at the inner end of Huvahandhoo Channel and is one of the few populated islands within the lagoon. On the S side of this island there are landing places.Huvarafushi (06º 59'.0 N, 072º 53'.8 E) is the main island of the atoll and has a large village. Formed between the island and the barrier reef there is a natural harbour on its SW side, which provides good anchorage for numerous fishing craft. 24 Hathifushi (07º 0l'.2 N, 072º 49'.8 E) has a harbour for fishing craft, protected by a breakwater, along its N coast. The approach to the harbour is shallow and barely usable at low water. 35 Matheerah (07º 0l'.7 N, 072º 49'.2 E), has a flagstaff and small temple standing on island, and was formerly used as a cemetery.Innafinolhu (07º 04'.5 N, 072º 48'.8 E), lies inside the barrier reef near its NW point. 2.430 1 Lagoon entrances.On this part of the atoll there are two channels leading into the lagoon, Huvahandhoo Channel on its SW side and Farukolhu Channel on its NW side, which may be used by small vessels approaching the atoll from these directions. 2 Between Dhigu Faru and Huvahandhoo, Huvahandhoo Channel (06º 56'.5 N, 072º 54'.5 E) enters the lagoon. The opening is about 7 cables wide through which a fairway, 4 cables wide, with charted depths of more than 20 m, which leads towards Ihavandhoo Island and gives access W of this island to the lagoon; there are several shoal and rocky patches on each side of the opening and off the reef encircling Ihavandhoo, but under suitable conditions these are usually easily seen from aloft. 3 Between Vagaaru Island and the E end of the barrier reef, 2 miles W Bihedhdhootila, Farukolhu Channel (07º 05'.8 N, 072º 51'.5 E) enters the lagoon. Several other shoal patches lie in this opening which has a narrow fairway, situated close W of Vagaaru, where vessels may enter the lagoon in a least charted depth of about 20.1 m; however, there are lesser depths close within the lagoon. 2.449 Useful mark 2.431 : 1 The following unchartedlights are exhibited from: NW extremity of Dhigu Faru (06º55'.20N,072º56'.30E). E side of Nasfaru (06º57'.80N, 072º56'.10E). S extremity of Huvahandhoo (06º57'.50N, 072º54'.30E). NW side of Rasfushifaru (07º01'.70N, 072º56'.00E). W extremity of barrier reef between Matheerah and Innafinolhu. 2 A Radio mast (red and white bands, obstruction light), not charted, stands on Huvarafushi (06º58'.90N, 072º53'.60E). 3 Stranded wreck (07º04'.60N, 072º48'.20E)lies near the outer edge of the barrier reef W of Innafinolhu; the wreck is generally very broken up, but about 1 m of its mast and a few parts of the superstructure are visible at all states of the tide. 54 Tide levels. Mean maximum range 0.7 m; mean minimum range 0.3 m. Anchorages in Ihavandhippolhu Atollatoll 2.432 1 Within the atoll the best anchorage can be found W of Uligamu Island (07º05'.00N, 072º 55'.70E) in depths of 27 to 37 m, sand and coral, as shown on the chart. 2 Good anchorage can also be found E of the reef in the SW part of the lagoon between Huvarafushi(06º59'.00N, 072º53'.80E) and Huvahandhoo, 1½ miles SSE, in depths of 31 to 37 m, sand and coral, as shown on the chart. This is probably the best anchorage during the SW monsoon but a heavy swell might reach part of the anchorage through Huvahandhoo Channel. 3 During the NE monsoon, good anchorage may be obtained W of Mulhadhoo (07º00'.70N, 072º59'.90E) and Gaamathikulhudhoo, 2 miles NNW, in depths of 47 to 55 m, sand and coral. 4 Vessel may also anchor S of Vagaaru Island (07º05'.80N, 072º52'.70E) and Thuraakunu Island, 1½miles ENE, as shown on the chart. Other name 2.433 1 Govvaafushi (Goivaafushi)(07º 00'.8 N, 072º 55'.2 E), an island. EIGHT DEGREE CHANNEL Charts 273 Description 2.434 1 The Channel between the N end of Ihavandhippolhu Atoll atoll (07º00'.00N, 072º55'.00E) and Minicoy Island, 70 miles N is known as Eight Degree Channel (Maa Ma Lee Channel). For ocean-going vessels proceeding in an E/W Channel). For ocean-going vessels proceeding in an E/W direction, it is one of the principal routes through the Maldives; see Ocean Passages for the World for details of such routes. Depths 2.435 1 The channel is generally very deep and free from charted dangers. However, an area which lies about 34 miles NNW of Ihavandhippolhu Atoll where two depths ofless than 100 m were reported in 1985 and 1986. Currents 2.436 1 The currents in this channel have similar characteristics to those at the N end of the Maldives, however, during the NE monsoon they sometimes set NW and very occasionally they set N with S winds. The current sets S between the ends of September and December. Lights 2.437 1 Major light. Minicoy Island light (08º16'.16N, 073º01'.57E) 2 Racon. Minicoy Island light (08º16'.16N, 073º01'.57E) The chart is sufficient guide for navigation in this channel. Passage directions 2.438 1 For the vessels using Eight Degree Channel, it would be more prudent to keep nearer to Minicoy than the Maldives thus ensuring sighting the light on Minicoy Island, which is much more powerful than the light on Thuraakunu Island; this route also ensures that vessels avoid being set onto the N endof theMaldive Group. The chart is sufficient guide for navigation in this channel.