Maldives Dive Travel proudly introduces the MV Aquarius, the latest addition to our fleet: A majestic high-tech vessel offering rebreather diving, double-tanks and a thrilling sense of adventure, the Aquarius offers unparalleled recreation and scuba diving features. Starting in August, this 101 foot liveaboard ship will be cruising the waters of the Maldivian islands, enabling scuba divers and dive safari enthusiasts to reach much greater distances than the current norm.

Maldives Liveaboard - MV Aquarius

Refurbished in 2011 with the most modern on-board technology and diving equipment, it is for this very reason the Aquarius can reach destinations not usually attainable with other ships, and state-of-the-art technology like underwater stabilisers and rebreather diving facilities allows divers to explore the stunning depths of the Maldives in greater detail.

The MV Aquarius will without a doubt become a frontrunner for liveaboard dive safaris in the Maldives, so be sure to reserve your spot for a unique dive experience of a lifetime.

MV Aquarius Details

The Aquarius measures an impressive 101 ft. in length and is 25.5 ft. wide, providing ample space for generous interior and exterior facilities. Constructed in the year 1998 it was fully refurbished in 2011; it holds up to 16 guests at a time, excluding the crew of 10. With two turbo-diesel engines, the cruising speed lies at 12 knots, and with Lloyd Standard certified security features like a 48 mile radar, autopilot, 3 independent steering systems, auto-inflating rescue rafts and strong search spotlights, this vessel is supremely equipped for high waters. Further features of the Aquarius MV at a glance:

The MV Aquarius on a Maldives Dive Safari

• Water Supply: 2 desalination plants on board
• Power: 220V / 50Hz supplied by 2 diesel generators
• Dhingy: Zodiac with outboard engine
• Extra Diving boat (Dhoni): 60 ft. dive dhoni, fully equipped for scuba diving
• DAN first aid box, oxygen, fire extinguishers, life vests
• 2 auto-inflatable rescue rafts
• Yacht-Control-System
• Bord Radio System
• Automated fire extinguishing system in engine room
• Fire hose connections on all decks
• Life vests and signal lights in every room
• First aid equipment in ship and Dhoni
• Rope cutter on propellers

But the Aquarius doesn’t just score high on safety, she also offers a great range of top recreational facilities; with sound systems on all decks, DVD player, wide-screen projector, satellite TV and internet access, the MV Aquarius guarantees you will find your time both on and off board a pleasant and enjoyable experience. And to make sure you keep those vivid memories for the future, all rooms are equipped with power sockets, and there are docking stations for cameras, video recorders and the like available on the main deck.

Diving Information

Imagine gliding along deep in the Maldivian waters when you see hundreds of sharks approaching close to you, yet you remain undetected due to the absence of water bubbles from your rebreather scuba tanks. The rebreather involves using oxygen and recycled exhaled air from the diver. As a closed circuit system this is more space efficient, as well as making the diver lighter and more compact. You can last for longer underwater, and sink to much deeper regions thanks to this sophisticated technology, and not worry about time while you admire the underwater marine life.

Check out the following video of a scuba diver swimming alongside a Maldives grey reef shark.

Liveaboard dive safaris aboard the MV Aquarius are sure to be popular along the south where there is an abundance of deep drop offs and ship wrecks. The diving equipment on this ship is remarkable; following are a few of the exclusive perks of travelling with the Aquarius:

• Twin Tanks with Isolated Manifolds on board
• Haskel Booster Pump for O2 and Helium, allowing easy and hassle free filling of mixed gases
• Evolution & Inspiration Rebreather bottles on board so clients don’t need to bring their own, thus saving weight
• Softner Lime for Rebreathers available for sale on board
• O2 cleaned Stage bottles and Stage rig kits

Dive Cruise Info

The MV Aquarius is active this season from 1st July 2011 – 30th April 2012. Starting July, the Aquarius will be sailing Monday through Monday at following cost:

p/p/n $ 185
Single occupancy $ 259
Full charter 16 guest max. $ 2.590

There is currently a special offer for travellers in large groups; with a group of 16 guests, number 15 and 16 are free of charge.

The price includes accommodation in air-conditioned cabins with windows, en-suite showers (hot water) and toilet. Bath towels provided along with full board, meaning breakfast, lunch and dinner. Tea, coffee and water are available free of charge at all times. Soft drinks and liquor can be purchased at the well-stocked bar. There are 17 dives during a seven night safari (including check dive and a special night dive, tanks with DIN/INT, lead belts, and the use of the extra diving boat. Guidance is provided by a qualified and highly experienced English-speaking dive guide, helping you to feel relaxed and secure in the care of a seasoned professional. You can also enjoy the use of fishing gear – local style, including hook, fishing line, weight and baits. Also on the agenda is a picnic on an uninhabited island (depending on weather and route), where you can enjoy some delicious local cuisine and if you are lucky, even experience a spontaneous traditional drum and dance session.

Sunset Beach Picnic

Not included in the price is bed tax: US$ 8 per person, per night and only payable on board. The fuel surcharge, that is to say if the crude oil price on the international markets reaches USD 100/barrel, US$ 6 p/p/n will be charged on board. Any domestic flights, air fares and/or airport taxes are also not covered in the package price. You can bring your own dive/snorkel equipment, or you can choose to hire them on board. Bear in mind the use of US Dollars is widely accepted, along with the local currency the Rufiya. Dive & travel Insurance is also excluded.

Cruise Details

Currently there are three liveaboard cruise offers running on the Aquarius from August 2011 to April 2012. Each cruise is tailored to a different route around the Maldives, and benefits from seasonal perks with regards to the very popular and unique marine life.

Scuba Divers Catch Sight of a Manta Ray

1. August – October: “Manta Madness”

Male, Baa, Rasdhoo, N. Ari Atoll. There is an abundance of Manta Rays at this time of year along this exact route. For all scuba divers interested in this fascinating creature, don’t miss out on a chance to witness phenomena like the manta feeding frenzy. You can read more about manta rays on our page on Maldives marine life.

2. November & December: “Best of Maldives”

Male, Rasdhoo, Ari, South Male Atoll. This liveaboard cruise encapsulates all that is fascinating about the Maldives. With dives at various world-renowned dive spots populated with whale sharks, turtles and clownfish to name a few, this cruise is perfect for exploring the Maldives both above and under water.

3. January – April: “Southern Sharks”

Addu, Foammulah, Huvadhoo (Guests Fly to Addu (Gan), and fly out from Huvadhoo (Kaadedhdhoo). New guests fly into Huvadhoo, out from Addu, alternating each time. Addu is notorious for boasting an abundance of manta rays and ship wrecks. Foammulah is the home to numerous tiger sharks and silver sharks, and along the entire route you may even spot several whale sharks. Diving amongst these imposing creatures is definitely a once in a lifetime experience.

For more info about cruise schedules and reservations contact us right here. We look forward to hearing from you!

When planning a Maldives dive safari, scuba divers usually have a lot of different questions that they need answering. So, we’ve put together this Maldives diving safari question and answer list. It should come in very handy when planning all the details of your diving safari in Maldives.

Dive Safari Maldives

What is a Maldives Dive Safari?

A Maldives dive safari is a holiday spent living on a dive boat known as a liveboard with a group of scuba divers. Maldives safaris tend to last anywhere from five to 21 days and will take you to some of the best dive spots in the country. On a typical diving safari in Maldives, you can expect to do two or three dives each day.

What Can I Expect to See on a Maldives Safari?

Think of a Maldives dive safari as you would of an African safari in the Serengeti. Only underwater! There are many varieties of marine animals and fish that you can expect to see, which range from small reef-dwelling fish to enormous rays and sharks. The waters of the Maldives are some of the most exciting in the world from a scuba diver’s point of view, but there are a handful of animals that have people flocking to the Maldives in the hope to catch a glimpse or – even better – dive alongside with.

Manta Ray Hovering Over Divers

Much like the ‘Big Five’ of an African safari, divers in the Maldives really hope to see whale sharks, manta rays, moray eels, grey reef sharks and turtles. The really great thing about a Maldives safari is that spotting the ‘Maldivian Big Five’ is somewhat easier than the African equivalent and all these species can be found in the Maldives throughout the year. In fact, there are very few scuba divers who complete a Maldives diving safari without spotting at least four of the ‘Big Five’.

In order to see the ‘Big Five’, you will need to visit plenty of different dive sites, all of which are interesting and visually stunning in different ways. Each dive site is renowned for a different kind of fish or animal and your crew will design a Maldives safari route that is sure not to disappoint. The exact route you take will depend largely upon what time of year you visit the Maldives, but the experienced divemasters and boat captains know these waters like the back of their hands and do their best to take you to the best spots, taking into consideration the season and the precise weather conditions. Currents in the Maldives can be strong and have a significant effect on the movements of the marine life, so this local knowledge is truly indispensable.

What is the best Maldives dive safari boat?

It’s impossible to say which is the best dive safari boat in Maldives because every person has different requirements and tastes. There really is a live-aboard cruising safari in Maldives to suit every budget and taste, from the utterly glamorous MV Orion and the Island Safari 2 Royal Maldives to the beautiful and comfortable Black Pearl Maldives safari liveaboard.

Panoramic Suite - Dream Catcher II

All liveaboards are equipped with private bedrooms, each of which has an en-suite bathroom, air conditioning and external windows. The more luxurious ships sometimes offer private balconies, bathtubs and even Jacuzzis! All liveaboards offer a further selection of common areas, including lounge rooms, restaurants and bar areas, outdoor sunbathing areas, television rooms with selections of movies on DVDs and internet access. Of course, every ship is different, so make sure that your liveaboard offers the facilities you need before making your reservation.

Can I learn to dive on a Maldives diving safari?

Most diving safaris in the Maldives are designed for experienced scuba divers, so you definitely need to check this in advance with the individual dive boat. Nearly all dive safari boats in the Maldives offer a selection of PADI courses, but most of them are designed for people who are already qualified as Open Water Divers and simply want to further their studies. Be sure to ask in advance!

Stunning Marine Life Seen on Maldives Dive Safari

Is it possible to book a last-minute dive safari in Maldives?

Definitely! In fact, this is probably the best way to book your Maldives diving safari as long as you don’t mind waiting until the last minute. By booking a last minute dive safari in Maldives, you’ll probably get the best possible price. The other time you’ll find a real bargain on your Maldives safari is if you book your dive holiday quite some time in advance.

How much does a Maldives dive safari cost?

Maldives safari prices vary with the time of year, the Maldives safari boat you choose to stay on and how long you go for. Typically, one of the more basic boats will cost around USD $150 per person per night, while one of the more luxurious boats will cost USD $250 per person per night. Maldives safari prices are inclusive of accommodation, transfers between the airport and the boat, all meals and all dives (2 or 3 dives per day). Extra costs include equipment rental in case you don’t have your own and alcoholic drinks: all liveaboard safari boats have a full bar, offering a wide variety of international spirits and draught beers, but these are charged at an additional cost.

How do I book a diving safari in Maldives?

The best way to book a Maldives diving safari is online. Maldives Dive Travel is a leading provider of diving safaris in the Maldives and has plenty of information on its website, including online Maldives brochures for safari, news and information about special offers and deals on last minute diving safaris. The site is regularly updated and offers a great variety of background information to get you ready for your trip. When you are ready to book a safari cruise in the Maldives, contact Maldives Dive Travel through their website, indicating which safari dive in Maldives you’re interested in and we’ll get back to you quickly with confirmation of prices and availability.

It’s really simple and we can have your dive safari in the Maldives booked within minutes! Contact us now to book your scuba diving trip of a lifetime.

If you’re looking for an amazing scuba diving holiday in the Maldives, you should really think about a Maldives boat charter. There are plenty of Maldives diving boats to choose from, which are generally known as “liveaboards” and they offer comfortable accommodation to groups of around 10 to 20 passengers. The boats are equipped with everything you need for life on board and are accompanied by a second boat, known as a dhoni – a traditional Maldives dive boat – on which all the scuba diving equipment is stored and from where all dives begin. Having this second boat is a great advantage because it can navigate much shallower waters and get much closer to the dive sites than the actual liveaboard boat.

A Maldives Safari Boat

Maldives Boat Trip Diving

The best thing about holidaying on a safari boat in Maldives is that it allows you to explore far more of the country and its magnificent dive sites than you would be able to if scuba diving from a resort dive centre. Because the Maldives islands cover such a large expanse of ocean, if you were tied to sleeping in one place, and had to return there every night by boat, the amount of time you would be able to spend actually scuba diving would be far more limited and the experience would likely be much more expensive. Maldives boat trip dive trips on a liveaboard tend to be surprisingly affordable, especially if you are not opting for one of the more high-end liveaboard boats.

View from a Maldives Safari Boat - Theia

Maldives Safari Boats

There is an incredible variety of Maldives safari boats on offer when looking to book your Maldives diving holiday, and you will find one to suit every taste and budget. Possibly the most exciting liveaboard dive boat in the Maldives is Theia.

Theia is a brand new dive safari boat in Maldives that was launched in 2010 and has been causing a lot of excitement. Offering stylish travel, Theia has accommodation for up to 16 people through 6 cabins and 2 suites, each with en-suite, hot water bathrooms and a stylish Asian décor. The suites located on the upper deck go that one step further, as they are equipped with flat-screen televisions and private balconies, giving guests a touch more privacy.

Other destinations for a sophisticated Maldives boat holiday are the liveaboards Island Safari 2 Royal, Dream Catcher II and MV Orion. Just like Theia, MV Orion was first launched in 2010 and is reminiscent of the private superyachts seen cruising the Caribbean or Mediterranean. Described by one diver as “business class scuba diving”, the 130-feet MV Orion houses special features including a private outdoor Jacuzzi on the deck of the master suite, stunning lounge areas and immaculate interior design throughout.

Panoramic Suite on the Dream Catcher II

Naturally, dive holidays aboard MV Orion, Theia, Dream Catcher II and Island Safari 2 Royal come at a premium, with a night’s accommodation costing around USD $200 on each of the boats, which includes all meals and dives. Now, if you compare this with the price of accommodation in one of the Maldives’ most luxurious resorts and then factor in the cost of diving from a resort dive centre, you will actually find that luxury Maldives boat diving is surprisingly affordable.

Furthermore, Maldives diving holidays can be even more economical if you choose one of the many other boats on offer. There is a wide range of Maldivian boats that offer liveaboard diving holidays at a more competitive price, from as little as USD $165 per night. Some of the best choices in this price range include Stingray, Black Pearl and Nautilus One and Nautilus Two. All of these offer a variety of cruises throughout the year which include all dives, meals and accommodation.

Jacuzzi and Lounger on Deck

If you’re looking for more of a feeling of adventure on your diving holidays in the Maldives and have a minimum of 60 dives in your logbook, Nautilus Two is a great option. This traditional Maldivian-style vessel is kitted out with everything you could need for a comfortable diving adventure. The boat is constructed completely out of wood and has 12 cabins – each air conditioned and with a private bathroom. Nautilus Two also features an outdoor Jacuzzi on one of the decks for use by all the guests and hammocks are strung out in the shade for whiling away your surface intervals in peace.

Maldives Safari Boat Information

Now you know there are plenty of Maldives liveaboard dive boats to choose from, there are a few more snippets of information you’ll need to know before you’re ready to start finding the right boat for you and looking into booking some Maldives boat trips. It’s important to understand that the prices for liveaboard holidays do not include flights from your home country to the Maldives, but do tend to include transfers from the airport to the Maldives holiday boat. Likewise, while the boats are typically equipped with a complete bar, alcoholic drinks are not included in the packages and so are charged separately at the end of your trip.

Unique Diving Experience on Maldives Dive Safari

As most experienced scuba divers tend to have their own scuba equipment and prefer not to hire, the prices do not include scuba equipment rental, although this can easily be organized at the time of reserving your Maldives boat safari. Some of the Maldives safari boat operators offer scuba certification courses if you are not yet a certified diver, while others will require that you are already a certified diver. Be sure to indicate your experience level when arranging your Maldives boat holiday. It’s also good to bear in mind that the Maldives is home to some strong currents and some of the dives are in deep water, so it’s really an ideal destination for an advanced diver, although that’s not to say there are no dive spots suitable for beginners.

Check out this breathtaking view of a sea turtle shot while scuba diving in the Maldives; The marine life is unmatched in the Maldives – be prepared for many more jaw-dropping sights and sounds from deep in the Maldivian waters.

How to book a Maldives Safari Boat

You can find out more about Maldives boat holidays online at www.maldivesdivetravel.com, a leading provider of Maldives boat safaris. On the website, you will find plenty of information about the different choices of dive boat in Maldives, prices, special offers, photos, videos and much more. There is also plenty of other relevant information about dive sites, marine life, and general Maldives travel information.

We are glad to assist you in any way possible, so don’t hesitate to contact us, regarding your Maldives Safari Boat Holiday.

Among scuba divers around the world, it’s no secret that the diving in Maldives is spectacular. In fact, the diving sites in Maldives consistently rank on lists of the best dive sites in the world.  While people come to go scuba diving in the Maldives to experience all the underwater life, from the stunning coral formations and their reef-dwelling inhabitants, to the large pelagic species that roam these waters, it’s the whale shark diving in the Maldives and the abundance of manta rays that really pull in the diving masses.

Diving in the Maldives

Best Diving in the Maldives

There are literally hundreds of great scuba diving spots in Maldives, so no matter what time of year you visit, or how many times you visit, you will find a new underwater spot just waiting to be explored.  If you were to ask for just a few of the best diving sites in Maldives, anyone would have to mention Lion’s Head in the North Male Atoll for its gorgeous coral and the opportunities for grey reef shark diving in the Maldives that can be had here.  Similarly, they would have to mention Kuda Haa, also on the North Male Atoll where some of the best diving in Maldives is found in terms of smaller species: here you will find lionfish, moray eels and eagle rays.  If its manta ray diving in Maldives that you’re interested in, you’ll find that among the top diving sites in the Maldives is Hanifaru Bay in the Baa Atoll.  Definitely, diving with manta rays in Maldives is one of the biggest attractions for divers to the country and there’s no place on earth that allows divers to encounter so many manta rays on one visit.

While you’re here, you should also try to do some shark diving in Maldives, and don’t worry, the shark species in the Maldives are all typically harmless.  Diving with whale sharks in Maldives is one of the great attractions of this diving destination and it is one of the only places in the world where you can enjoy whale shark diving in the Maldives all year round.  Whale sharks are incredibly gentle creatures and because most whale shark encounters are enjoyed while snorkeling, it means you don’t even have to be a qualified scuba diver to experience one of these amazing animals.  You can also expect to see grey reef sharks, white tip sharks and zebra sharks while scuba diving at any of the good diving sites in Maldives.

While the Maldives is definitely not known as a wreck diving destination, there are a couple of opportunities for wreck diving in Maldives that will satisfy the urges for an interesting wreck dive.  The most famous is the Maldive Victory Wreck, an advanced dive that explores a ship that sank in 1981 and is now a favourite spot for sea turtles, barracudas and fusiliers.

Cost of Scuba Diving in Maldives

One of the most crucial pieces of knowledge about diving holidays in Maldives is the price of diving in Maldives which can vary dramatically.  From a resort dive shop, the diving rate in Maldives is around USD $50 per dive.  On top of this, you also have to pay for boat trips and if you’re visiting distant dive sites, the diving costs in the Maldives can get quite expensive. The most affordable diving in Maldives is definitely the liveaboard scuba diving holiday.  You will be surprised at how reasonable liveaboard scuba diving prices in the Maldives are: a week-long cruise on a safari ship which includes two or three dives per day will typically cost about USD$180 to USD $220 per person per night.  As well as the cost of diving in Maldives, this also includes all meals and accommodation whilst on the boat along with a few excursions, so it’s really quite a good deal.  To find the best scuba diving cost in Maldives, you should keep your eyes open for last minute deals and special offers on liveaboard diving holidays which usually give you reduced diving prices in the Maldives.  If you have never dived before, you’ll also need to factor in the diving price in Maldives of taking your PADI Open Water qualification.  It is sometimes possible to take this from a liveaboard (but make sure you check before) and most resort dive centres also offer this and other PADI courses.  Finally, you need to remember that as well as scuba diving in Maldives costs, you will also need to bring your own equipment or rent it from the liveaboard or resort dive shop.  All boats and dive centres offer equipment rental, but again, it’s best to reserve it in advance.  Overall, scuba diving in the Maldives prices are comparable with scuba diving prices around the world and if you look carefully, it is possible to book cheap scuba diving holidays in Maldives.

Diving Boats in the Maldives

Undoubtedly the best way to enjoy scuba diving in Maldives is by taking a diving safari in Maldives.  These cruises are held on board liveaboard safari ships and typically, they are all inclusive diving holidays in Maldives that include all scuba diving, meals and transfers to and from the airport, as well as the occasional excursion from the boat.  Liveaboards scuba diving in Maldives is really great fun and is perfect for couples, families, groups of friends and even single divers.  If you arrive in the Maldives completely alone, you will definitely leave with many more friends.

Grey Reef Shark seen at Rasdhoo Madivaru

When to go Diving in the Maldives

Scuba diving holidays in Maldives are possible year round, although there are seasons: the Northeast Monsoon season (November to April) and the Southwest Monsoon season (May to October).  Most people will tell you that the best diving season in the Maldives is the Northeast Monsoon season as this is when the weather is drier, visibility is better and the ocean is calmer.  Officially, this is when the “peak” diving season is and as such the price of scuba diving in the Maldives is a little higher at this time and generally, you will find the very best conditions for diving in the Maldives in January and December. However, this doesn’t mean that you can’t enjoy a holiday diving Maldives in July, because there are still many diving cruises in Maldives, it’s just that they will visit different dive sites.  In fact, the summer months of July and August are the best months for seeing the manta rays in Hanifaru and while you might have the occasional rainfall or thunderstorm; these typically clear after a short time, revealing clear sunny skies.  So, don’t think it’s not possible to go to the Maldives diving in August, because it is, just be prepared to visit different areas: the best diving site in Maldives in January will be different from where is the best diving in the Maldives in August.

Diving Accidents in Maldives

The Maldives is one of the safest scuba diving destinations in the world and the number scuba diving accidents in Maldives are very small.   Safety procedures are rigorous and are in place at all resorts and onboard all liveaboard dive ships.  Nevertheless, you should always carry out the standard safety procedures as taught in your PADI training for both you and your dive buddy.

Find Out More about Diving in Maldives

Once you have decided you would like to go diving in the Maldives, there is plenty of research you can do online.  There are many scuba diving websites and many Maldives-related websites, all of which have information about scuba diving tours in Maldives, stories and news about diving holidays in the Maldives, resources about where you can rent diving equipment in Maldives and up-to-date offers with special diving prices in Maldives.

You will most likely spend days and days looking at the millions of scuba diving pictures in the Maldives that you can find online and when you’re ready to get really excited about your trip, check out the many diving in Maldives videos.

Please contact us to book your Maldives diving holidays.

Scuba Diving

Maldives diving holidays are a great opportunity to experience diving in the Maldives. If you have any experience in scuba diving holidays, or have spent any time around keen scuba divers, you will most likely have heard that holidays spent diving in Maldives are some of the best diving holidays in the world. There are many reasons that make diving Maldives so great, but the best thing about Maldives scuba diving is the sheer abundance and variety of underwater marine life.

No matter how many times you visit the Maldive,scuba diving you will always find a new scuba diving experience waiting for you. There are many Maldives diving highlights, one of which is Hanifaru Bay diving, where you will have the chance to experience one of the most amazing natural phenomena in the underwater world. If you go Hanifaru diving, at the right time of year, you will see incredible numbers of manta rays that gather in this bay to feed on the massive amounts of plankton. You are almost likely to see several diving maldive whales sharks here, which also thrive on this planton. Diving Hanifaru Bay is just one of the many places where you can enjoy shark diving in Maldives. Maldives shark diving is possible throughout the archipelago, where you will see many different species of sharks, although whale sharks are perhaps the biggest attraction to divers in the diving Maledives, because of their enormous size and docile nature. If you’re keen on shark diving Maldives, you’ll be interested to know that you can also expect to see a variety of reef sharks and zebra sharks while in the Maldives.

Maldives Diving

The other great thing about diving holidays in the Maldives is that they can be enjoyed year-round. There are several Maldives diving season. The best time to enjoy Maldives scuba diving holidays is between December and March, when the weather is at its driest and the visibility at its best. Diving holidays February is probably the best month of all to enjoy Maldives diving trips, but since most of us don’t have the luxury to enjoy holidays in the month of February, Christmas diving holidays are a great idea and you might even see Santa Claus diving! Imagine enjoying the glorious sunshine and crystalline waters of the Maldives while your friends and family back home are shoveling snow! If you can’t manage a trip at Christmas to visit scuba diving santa and you don’t have a chance to experience the best scuba diving in February, you can enjoy liveaboard diving holidays every month of the year. When you go on a Maldives liveaboard diving safari, the experienced crew will know the best diving sites according to the time of year, and they will make sure you get the Maldives best diving experience possible for the time of year that you visit.

Liveaboard Diving

There are many different liveaboards to choose from when you’re looking for a Maldives diving holiday. You will find a liveaboard for every budget and level of comfort. Theia diving liveaboard is one of the most luxurious Maldive diving liveaboards, featuring Jacuzzis, massage tables and gorgeous finishings. Theia diving is quite expensive, however, so if the Maldives diving cost is something that concerns you, you might choose a different liveaboard, like Maldives diving Adventurer 2, that offers cheap diving holidays.

Other alternatives to Theia, Maldives diving include Black Pearl diving, another quality liveaboard that offers more cheap scuba diving trips. One thing is for sure, there is enough variety in the ships available to guarantee that you will be able to find the perfect diving holiday Maldives. And, while the Maldives diving price may vary significantly, last minute scuba diving holidays typically help you find the best diving Maldives price. To give you an idea of the diving prices, you should expect to pay around $180-250 per person per day, which will give you a diving holiday that includes all diving, meals and some excursions.

Diving Holidays

As well as giving you access to some great scuba diving Maldives, Liveaboard diving modern cruises are a great way to meet new people, and if you’re looking for a single scuba diving holidays, liveaboard diving trips are a great idea. Since you will be on a boat with a large group of other divers, a liveaboard presents a great idea for diving holidays for single travellers. In fact, as far as single diving holidays are concerned, there’s really no better option than a liveaboard diving holiday. Many times, people will go on all inclusive diving holidays in the Maldives without planning to be on a singles scuba diving holidays and because they are surrounded by people with similar interests, they meet a new dive buddy with whom they can then enjoy another scuba diving holiday.

Many divers will be keen to know the planned route for their Maledives diving trip. The exact route for your trip won’t be decided until everyone is on board, because the Maldives diving sites that you will visit depend on the weather conditions, the length of your safari and also the ability and experience levels of all divers on board. Most diving holidays Maldives last between 5 and 14 nights and typically visit two Maldives diving site each day. At the daily briefing, you will see a Maldives diving map
That shows the dive sites you will be visiting that day and tells you what to expect from each site. There are plenty of amazing sites for scuba diving in Maldives, these include Rasdhoo Kandu diving, among many others. At these dive sites, there will be opportunities for diving with manta rays and for enjoying sharks diving holidays. While scuba diving in the Maldives, if you choose to go liveaboard diving, which is the best diving in Maldives, you should know in advance that all dives are taken from a diving dhoni, which is a secondary boat that travels along with the diving liveaboard Maldives. All diving equipment is transported on the dhoni, and you simply travel from the liveaboard to the dive site each day on the dhoni. As these boats are far smaller than the liveaboards, they allow you to get much closer to the dive sites.

When looking to book your trip scuba diving the Maldives, there are plenty of resources. A quick search online will reveal many scuba diving blogs. A good scuba diving blog will be filled with useful information about diving prices in Maldives, travel diving in different destinations around the world and the best diving holidays. You will also find a variety of diving blog that have news about diving in general, the qualifications you need, places where you can buy diving kit and more. There is even a selection of diving screensaver available online. There is one particularly attractive Maldives diving screensaver which has gorgeous photos of underwater scenes in the Maldives.

If you are a really keen scuba diver, you might even have your own scuba diving websites, in which case you might think about joining scuba diving affiliate programs so you can make money from sending your diving traffic around the web. Make sure you take lots of Maldives diving photos, as these are by far the best way to get people interested in diving holidays in Maldives.

If you’re concerned about the cost of scuba diving in Maldives, you don’t need to worry. While it is true that Maldives diving prices can be very high, it is also possible to get a great deal on a diving safari Maldives. The most surefire way of getting cheap scuba diving holidays is to book last minute diving holidays. All of the Maldives diving liveaboards have a certain capacity they need to fill, so if the time comes for the safari to set sail, and the boat is not full, the operators would rather fill the boat with reduced-price passengers than sail a half empty boat, meaning that last minute diving holidays are available. Without getting a special deal on a Maldives diving safari, you will find that Maldives scuba diving prices vary wildly, depending on the length of the safari and the type of ship that you choose to dive from. For the cheapest scuba diving, you should book on one of the more basic liveaboards, which costs about US$180 per person per night, including all Maldives, diving and meals. If you are looking for a more luxurious scuba diving holidays Maldives, you should be aware that luxury liveaboard diving trips cost over US$200 per person per day, but conditions will be far more comfortable and elegant.

As you begin your research into diving holiday destinations, you will find that the marine life and the sheer beauty of the Maldives make diving Maldives one of the best diving destinations in the world. The best diving Maldives can be enjoyed at many times and places, although many people will agree that to enjoy the ultimate Maldives diving experience, you should come scuba diving in February.

Contact us to book your dream Maldives dive holiday!

Magnificent Maldives Dive Trip with Whale Shark Biologists!

Unique safari departs August 30th – 14-night trip $2,590 per person (includes fuel surcharge and marine biologist fee)

Upon arrival in the Maldivian capital Male (the most densely populated piece of land on the planet) the crew will meet and transfer you to your home, away from the hustle and bustle of life, for the next two weeks – The Black Pearl. There you’ll meet the rest of your Maldivian crew and the Maldives Whale Shark Research Programme (MWSRP) marine biologists.

Whale Shark Research Biologists will be Present on the Cruise

After chilling out and settling in, no time will be wasted in getting you in the water! An orientation dive will take place in North Male before you begin your journey north, through the idyllic coral chain of islands to Baa Atoll.

Reserve your space on this one-of-a-kind cruise today!

During the evening, the MWSRP biologists will formally introduce themselves and deliver a presentation about the organisation’s work and provide a short briefing about animal encounter conduct. The next day your dives will begin! Rasfaree Outside and Voshimas Thila, where grey reef sharks, green and hawksbill turtles and other wonders of the ocean will be awaiting you in the warm crystal clear tropical water. afternoon will bring the channel crossing to Baa Atoll – drawing you ever closer to some of the most extraordinary dive sites in the world.

Explore the Stunning Coral Reefs of the Baa Atoll

Gather Incredible Knowledge from Marine Biologists

During evenings onboard the Black Pearl, the marine biologists will discuss with you the importance of the precious ecosystem through interactive presentations and conversations. You will also be given the opportunity to become involved in the research – taking photographs, monitoring behaviour and distuinguishing features, measuring animals (where possible), sexing, logging GPS coordinates, etc – and recording all of the data in one of the most comprehensive whale shark databases in the world. You’ll be introduced to and given the chance to use I3S, the spot pattern recognition software, originally developed by NASA and used to identify whale sharks and manta rays through their unique spot patterns. The biologists will be with you 24/7 giving you every opportunity to gain answers to those questions you have always wanted to ask.

The Black Pearl is the Perfect Liveaboard for a Dive Safari in the Maldives

Reserve your space on this one-of-a-kind cruise today!

Your dive locations will vary depending on wind and weather conditions. Please see the list of sites below for the scheduled dive sites. However, nothing is set in stone. If you particularly like a certain spot we may stay for another dive… or two.

Experience the Magic of Hanifaru Bay!

For example, Hanifaru! The lagoon is a natural phenomenon where you will almost certainly want to stay. Arrival will be scheduled for the best tide times to ensure the best chance of witnessing the manta ray feeding frenzy at is climax.

Dive Sites: Anga Faru, Dhigali Haa, Rangali Faru, 12.5 Thila, Maavaru Kandu, Muthaafushi House Reef (Night Dive ), Dharavandhoo thila, Milaidhoo Outside, Blue hole, Dhe Gaa Thila, Neli Varu, Don Fan thila, Blue Hole, Cake, Outside Reef, Udoodhoo West, Ranfaru, Hurualhi Corner, Kihaa Rock, Vadhoo Corner, Kihaadhoo Thila, Aidhoo Channel, Iru caves,…

Dive with Grey Reef Sharks in the Baa Atoll

Day 13: Unfortunately, is the beginning of the end of your experience with the Black Pearl crew and MWSRP. The channel crossing voyage will begin… but don’t worry! You’ll sneak one last dive in at Lankan Manta point, where chances are you’ll get one last ‘manta ray fix’ before departing the incredible environment of the Republic of Maldives.

Reserve your space on this one-of-a-kind cruise today!

Day 14: Your crew will transfer you to Male airport for your departure where you can dream of your unforgettable experience over the past two-week experience.

Maldives Whale Shark Trips – Summer 2010

Is swimming with whale sharks something you’ve always wanted to do, but never had the chance?  Have you seen whale sharks in the wild before while scuba diving/snorkeling, but you’re dying for another opportunity to swim with them?  Now is your chance!  Maldives Dive  Travel is offering a wide selection of whale shark safaris this summer, so there’s bound to be one to suit your schedule and budget.  The following scuba diving safaris all depart from the city of Male, the capital of the Maldives.  Prices include accommodation, meals and diving.

Whale Shark Trips with Maldives Dive Travel in 2010

Maldives Whale Shark Dive Trips 2010

• Stingray : August 17 – 24.  7 nights. USD $1,176
  Baa Atoll / Hanifaru
• Black Pearl: August 30 – September 13.  14  nights.  USD $2,590.
  Hanifaru Whale Shark / Manta Ray safari with Marine Biologist on board
• Black Pearl: September 13 – 20.  7 nights.  USD $1,295.
  Mamingili Beyru Whale Shark Safari with Marine Biologist on board
• Stingray: September 15 – 22.  7 nights. USD  $1,176.
  Baa Atoll, Hanifaru
• Theia: August 2 – 9. 7 nights. USD  $1,344.
  Baa Atoll, Hanifaru, Ari  and North Male Atoll
• Theia: August 9-16. 7 nights. USD $1,344.
  Baa Atoll Hanifaru, Ari  and North Male Atoll
• Theia: August 16-23, 7 nights. USD $1,344
  Baa Atoll Hanifaru, Ari  and North Male Atoll
• Theia: August 23-30. 7 nights, USD $1,344
  Baa Atoll Hanifaru, Ari  and North Male Atoll
• Theia: August 30 – September 6. 7 nights. USD $1,344
  Baa Atoll Hanifaru, Ari  and North Male Atoll
• MV Orion: September 3 – 13,  10 nights USD $1,990
  Baa Atoll Hanifaru, Ari  and North Male Atoll
• Theia: September 6-13. 7 nights, USD 1.344
  Baa Atoll Hanifaru, Ari  and North Male Atoll

All cruises on Theia are subject to the following surcharges on board: USD $8 p.p./p.n. obligatory Maldivian tourism tax + USD $14.50  fuel surcharge per person per night.

Please Note (valid for all boats):
Travelling to Baa Atoll and back requires adequate weather conditions and is subject to change. Prices are per person, per cruise in a standard cabin full board accommodation inclusive all dives.  On many of the boats, upgrades to other cabins are available at a cost.

Summer Holidays 2010 Diving in the Maldives

Are you still undecided on what to do for your 2010 summer holidays?  Have you thought about a scuba diving holiday in the Maldives? A diving holiday in the Maldives is a great experience and is something that can be enjoyed by all the family.  There are several different ways to enjoy your 2010 summer holidays in the Maldives, but our favourite way is by taking a scuba diving safari on a liveaboard ship and exploring the many islands and atolls of the glorious Maldives.

Special Offers on 2010 Summer Holidays in the Maldives

There are several excellent summer holiday special offers available at the moment with Maldives Dive Travel.  These vary in price and style so there’s something to suit every taste and budget.   The following are our top 5 picks for 2010 summer holidays in the Maldives:

1. Hanifaru Bay on Theia – July 19-26

Manta Ray Feeding Frenzy at Hanifaru Bay

Hanifaru Bay is home to one of the most spectacular natural phenomena in the world, especially when it comes to scuba diving attractions. The spectacular “Manta Ray Feeding Frenzy” can be seen here only during the months of July, August and September – and stunning liveaboard Theia can take you there at a great deal.

Book your space on Theia’s Hanifaru Bay Cruise for only $1,344 per person for a 7-night cruise.

2010 Summer Holiday on Theia

2. Dream Catcher II Special Last Minute Deal – July 12 – 19

Dream Catcher II, one of the most luxurious liveaboards in the Maldives is offering a special last-minute deal where you pay for 6 nights and get the 7th night free for several dates throughout July.  This popular offer has sold quickly, but there are still some places available on the July 12th departure.  This cruise will visit some of the best dive sites in the Maldives and divers will hopefully experience some of the main attractions of Maldives diving - the whale shark and manta ray.

Book your space now on Dream Catcher II for just $1,295 including all diving and meals

Summer Holidays 2010 on Dream Catcher II

3. Great Value Short Trip on Black Pearl – August 25 – 30

If you just want to take a short diving safari, perhaps in conjunction with a Maldives resort stay, you should consider this 5-night cruise on Black Pearl for just $840 per person, including all meals and diving.    The Black Pearl is a traditional-style Maldivian liveaboard but it also offers all the modern conveniences and creature comforts you need to ensure a safe and exciting diving safari in the Maldives.

Book your space on this Black Pearl safari for just $840 per person!

Black Pearl Liveaboard Holidays

4. LAST MINUTE SPECIAL!!! HURRY!!! MV Orion Diving Adventure – June 23 – 30

This very last minute deal allows you to experience the magic of the South Male, North Male and Ari Atolls from the comfort of the stunning MV Orion liveaboard.  Divers will experience what has been referred to as “Business-Class Scuba Diving” as they cruise around these incredible atolls, stopping off at many of the finest dive sites in the world.  Expect manta rays, whale sharks, reef sharks, stunning coralscapes and pristine white sand beaches.  The Maldives is waiting for you!!!

Book your space on the 7-night MV Orion special for $1,197 per person!

MV Orion Super Special Offer

MV Orion Scuba Diving Holiday Special

MV Orion has just announced a very special price on a June diving holiday in the Maldives.  This is going to be a superb scuba diving adventure which departs Male on June 23rd and cruises to the North Male, Ari and South Male Atolls of the Maldives.

Guests on this cruise will pay for 6 nights and get the 7th night free – only  USD $1,197 per person!

MV Orion Liveaboard

MV Orion Liveaboard

The MV Orion is one of the Maldives’ most luxurious scuba diving liveaboards, offering business-class accommodation to 22 guests throughout 11 cabins.  The cabins are spread over two decks, and each have a private ensuite bathroom.  There are nine standard cabins, one junior suite and one master suite, which boasts a private 2-person Jacuzzi and private balcony.

Cruise the Maldives with MV Orion this June

Diving around the North Male, Ari and South Male Atolls

The diving in the Maldives is world-class, and the North Male, South Male and Ari Atolls are home to some of the finest dive sites in the country. World-class dive sites in these areas include Gangehi Kandu at Ari Atoll, a great place for spotting a variety of sharks including grey reef sharks and leopard sharks.  In South Male Atoll, Kandooma Thila – known for spectacular coral formations and intense varieties of fish – is one you will not want to miss and in North Male Atoll, Kuda Haa will not disappoint.  Macro-enthusiasts will be delighted here as they discover a wealth of nudibranchs, leaf fish and flatworms amid schools of snapper, tuna and lionfish.

MV Orion Dive Safari Route Planner

MV Orion Maldives Special Offer

Take advantage of this great special offer and enjoy an amazing dive safari of the Maldives this June.  The cruise departs on June 23rd for a 7-night adventure, but you will only pay for 6 nights!  All dives, including Nitrox diving, are included in the price, as well as your accommodation, all meals and non-alcoholic drinks.  The fully-stocked bar will be serving up a selection of icy cold beers, cocktails and wines, which will be charged at the end of your trip. Total price: USD $1,197 per person. To reserve your space on this fantastic holiday, contact Maldives Dive Travel today… spaces are limited and with an offer like this, they’re bound to fill up quickly!

MV Orion is one of the Maldives

Enjoy a New Year Cruise on Theia Liveaboard

This year, bring in the New Year in the Maldives on the scuba diving holiday of a lifetime on Theia liveaboard.  This unique scuba diving trip will combine world-class scuba diving with a great party atmosphere on the most luxurious and stylish dive vessels in the Maldives.

Places are limited on this special New Year’s cruise so book your place today!

New Year's Eve Dive Party on Theia

New Year Dive Holiday: December 27 2010 – 8 January 2011

Places are limited on this special New Year’s cruise so book your place today!

The Theia 12-night “Dive ‘n’ Party” Cruise kicks off on December 27 and lasts until January 8th, giving you the perfect winter getaway and great New Year’s Eve party in paradise.  Expect an incredible dive holiday with delicious cocktails at sunset with the best chill music and then, after dark each night, be prepared to party with sounds of Ibiza and best in house music.  The provisional schedule of events for the dive safari is as follows: (This is subject to change.)

Enjoy the Island Paradise of the Maldives on the New Years Cruise on Theia

Theia New Year Cruise: December 27

Arrive and check-in on Theia.  Theia departs for the North Male Atoll and guests enjoy lunch on-board followed by some snorkeling, a general briefing about the safari and have the opportunity to get to know each other over some sundowner cocktails at Theia’s Sky Bar.

The Skybar on Theia is Great for Sundowners!

Theia New Year Cruise: December 28

Guests begin the day with the orientation dive, which allows the staff to acquaint themselves with everyone’s diving ability and allows guests who have not dived for a while to refresh their skills.  The dives will take place at Nassimo Thila and Manta Point dive sites.  The evening will play host to a Poker Night on board.

Theia New Year Cruise: December 29

Dives on the third day of the cruise will take place at HP Reef, widely considered to be one of the very best dive sites in the Maldives – a great place for spotting eagle rays and Lankan Manta Point, a cleaning station for many enormous manta rays.  After a day of great diving, guests will enjoy some relaxing sundowner cocktails to the sounds of great house music.

Diving with Manta Rays at Lankan Manta Point

Theia New Year Cruise: December 30

On December 30, the New Year Theia liveaboard cruise will move to the South Male Atoll after first completing a dive at the amazing Okobe Thila, where you are likely to see eagle rays, napoleon wrasse, and schools of smaller reef-dwelling fish.  Once in the South Male Atoll, divers will enjoy an afternoon dive at Kandooma Thila and then in the evening will play a great Fishing Game, before getting a good nights’ rest before the highlight of the cruise, tomorrow’s New Year’s Eve party!

Theia Liveaboard is the Maldives' Most Luxurious Dive Boat

Theia New Year Cruise: December 31

Before beginning the New Year’s Eve celebration, Theia will stop off for a morning dive at Guraidhoo Corner, a great place for spotting grey reef sharks and eagle rays.  Then, the boat heads to Maadhoofinolhu, where the New Year’s Eve celebrations will begin with a beach buffet and relaxing on the beach all afternoon.  Later, pre-dinner cocktails and chill-out music before a stunning New Year’s Eve dinner on the beach and beach party.  Dress code: white.

Grey Reef Sharks at Guraidhoo Corner Dive Site

Theia New Year Cruise: January 1

Happy New Year!  After an amazing New Year’s Eve party under the stars, it’s time to get back to the water.  Theia will begin traveling to the South Ari Atoll and along the way will search for whale sharks, one of the prime attractions of the Maldives.  The dives today will be held at Kudarah Thila.  In the evening, guests will enjoy a Black-themed evening with Sangria and a crab race, a quirky event that is often the highlight of a Maldives’ dive holiday.

Whale Sharks in the Maldives

Theia New Year Cruise: January 2-4

Great scuba diving continues on January 2 with dives at 5 Rocks,  Thinfushi Ethere Thila and the cruise continues for the whale sharks.  The next two days will include dives at Broken Rock, Dhigurah Thila, Vilamendhoo Thila and Dhigaa Thila.  Guests will also enjoy a unique island visit to a secluded island where there will be a visit with a local community.  The evening on January 4 will include a Margarita party and a beach dinner on Raidhigaa Island.

Theia New Year Cruise: January 5-8

The last few days of the New Year’s Eve 2010 diving holiday on Theia liveaboard include some of the finest dive sites in the Maldives, including Pannettone, a wreck dive at Fesdhu and the legenday night dive at Maaya Thila, where grey reef sharks can be found prowling the reef for their evening meal.  A stunning daytime dive at Maaya Thila will also feature among the activities of the last few days as well as several dives at the manta ray cleaning station at Rangali Madivaru dive site.  The cruise ends on January 7th in Male with a shopping trip in Male and a visit to the historical sites in the city.

Ocean View Guest Suite on Theia

Theia New Year Cruise Package

This amazing New Year 2010 Dive Holiday on Theia includes the following:

• Total 24 dives
• All meals
• Island visit
• Beach Barbecue
• Sunset and Night Fishing
• Island visit
• Whale shark search
• Traditional music on Local Island with Maldivian Bodu Beru Band

All activities, dive sites and routes can change without prior notice.

The total cost for the USD $3,480 per person.

Places are limited on this special New Year’s cruise so book your place today!