Maldives

I just looked into divin the Maldives since I'm going to be in southern india in a while, but from what I saw it's basically an extremely expensive destination! Does anyone have any experience diving there?? Is it possible to find backpacker accomodation and cheaper diving companies??
Thanks!

hi, yes it is true Maledives are expensive, which is the nature of islands, where EVERYTHING has to be imported. I think the "cheapest" is Fihaloli (island), rather backpacker style. Diving in the Maledives is good, big fish destination, stong currents, hardly macro or critters. It is worth it. Another options are LOB, which is little cheaper (but not for beginners; min. 50 dives). for more Infos about diving, just pm me.

http://www.destination-scuba.com/Maldives-scuba-diving.html

There is a link there to another site which has a lot of information about Maldives in general. Liveabords seem the cheaper option and of course being mobile you get to see more......