Kuda Bandos
Kuda Bandos Island · Little Bandos
4°16.9'N 73°27.9'E
Depth
5–15m
Bottom
sand
Alarm Radius
70m
Holding
Good
Recommended Anchor Alarm Radius
70m
70m radius recommended — sand bottom gives reliable holding, but NE monsoon chop can cause rolling. Set scope generously for overnight stays.
About This Anchorage
Kuda Bandos is a small uninhabited island in the northern part of North Malé Atoll, offering a classic Maldivian desert island anchorage in a beautiful setting. The surrounding lagoon has excellent sand patches for anchoring in moderate depth, with a fringing coral reef that provides good snorkelling and diving. The island itself is palm-fringed and largely undeveloped, making it an idyllic stop after the bustle of Malé. The nearby picnic island status means it is occasionally visited by resort speedboats bringing day-trippers, but evenings are peaceful. Coral heads in the approach must be carefully negotiated.
Protected From
N · NE · E
Exposed To
SW · W
Anchoring Rules
- Anchoring fee
- Free
- Permit required
- Yes
- Permit details
- Maldives Yacht Cruising Permit required. Island is uninhabited — no landing regulations beyond standard Maldives rules. Do not disturb coral or marine life.
Hazards
- !Coral heads in approach — mandatory dinghy scout before anchoring
- !Exposed to SW monsoon swell — avoid May–Oct
- !Resort speedboat traffic nearby during daytime
Skipper's Tips
- →Approach from the north-northwest — clearest water and sand patches
- →Excellent snorkelling directly off the boat on the fringing reef
- →Walk the beach at dawn for the classic Maldives experience
- →Take all rubbish back to Malé — leave nothing on the island
Facilities
Nearest provisions: Malé (18nm)
Best Months & Season
November, December, January, February, March, April
December to April in the NE monsoon is ideal — flat seas, moderate trade winds, excellent water clarity. SW monsoon (May–Oct) brings rough conditions and reduced visibility.
Recommended Anchor Types
Nearby Anchorages
Set Your Anchor Alarm to 70m
In the Maldives, tidal currents and unexpected Indian Ocean swells can put a drifting boat on a reef without warning. Safety Anchor Alarm monitors your GPS position continuously so you can explore the underwater world and relax on the beach with confidence.
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