Manta Point

German Tourist Killed in Boat Strike at South Ari Atoll, Maldives

On April 1, 2026, a German tourist was killed after being struck by a boat at Manta Point in South Ari Atoll, within the Southern Marine Protection Area (SAMPA). The incident was reported to Maldives Police Service at 9:59 a.m. The victim's identity has not been released. SAMPA is a protected marine zone that extends one kilometer from the outer bank of the reef. Boat strikes on swimmers and divers are common in the area. In response to the recurring danger, a management plan was introduced in February 2025 requiring a spotter or lookout to be stationed at the rear of all vessels operating in the zone to prevent such incidents.