Maldives was liberated from Portuguese invaders in the late 16^th century by Muhammad Thakurufaanu Al Auzam, ever since earning him the status of one of the beloved legendary heroes of the country. His epic struggle for freedom has been told and retold countless times, ever since the details of the story had disappeared into the mists of history.

One of the facts is quite clear, believable or not, that Thakurufaanu used to dart in between islands and entire atolls on boat a boat he built himself – The Kalhuoffummi. It is believed that this dhoani – a Maldivian boat – attained incredible speeds even though it was driven by the wind in the sails.

Misty-eyed Maldivian historians and elderly alike still praise the hero for his efforts in what was a short, intense battle when Thakurufaanu and his brothers overthrew André André’s garrison in the capital city, Malé, thus freeing the country in 1573.

 

 

Feeling historical already? Well this is your chance to experience the Maldives like no other has ever done before: Maldives Dive Travel has now acquired two boats that were designed with reference to the structure of Kalhuoffummi.

Named, Dhoni Stella I and II, the boats is designed with two cabin suites each that caters from two to six travelers, and since you aren’t going to be at war while on your vacation, instead of battle equipment, the safari boats are designed with all the luxurious amenities that is prerequisite for a lovely getaway in the most romantic spot on Earth.

Come up with your own vacation plan, or choose one that caters your desires, be it snorkeling, some light diving or intense under the ocean adventure for the experienced divers and the experienced captain and crew will take care of the rest.

Your time onboard Dhoni Stella I and II will alternate between the air-conditioned authentic wooden cabins that are sophisticated in its simplicity, the cuisine of Maldives with a dash of Italian favorites, the top notch service by the competent crew and a choice of four options to charter the vessel.

Tourists staying at resorts can use the boat for an exclusive full day trip or for excursions and return to the resort for the night. Travelers who prefer to go off the beaten path would love the full charter option of the vessel, where you can embark at Malé – the capital island of the Maldives or from any resort, and choose where to go.

Between choosing a combination of cruising itineraries with a where you get to spend overnights either on the vessel or a resort, and a full safari charter tailor made for divers, snorkelers and fishermen, one would be inclined for the latter if one is into the aqua scene, as this package is designed by Max Molteni, an expert on Maldives and author of the book ‘Maldives Cruising Guide’.

 

Which boat to choose ?

 

The differences between the two boats are in design, as Dhoni Stella I is the best choice for a couple or a family as it has a ‘Master Cabin Suite’ for two adults and a ‘Twin Cabin Suite’ for two adults  and a child. Dhoni Stella II on the other hand, is best for two couples or two families as it has two ‘Triple Cabin Suites’ which has three adults and one child occupancy per suite.

Everything else is the same on both boats, as all the cabins have their own private toilet, fresh water from an onboard desalination plant, diving facilities, dive guide and gears, and fishing gears made available on request from the English-speaking crew members that include a captain, a chef and two stewards. The vessels are equipped with a motorized dinghy that facilitates transport onto and off islands and sand-bars.

While internet isn’t available on board, tourists are given a local SIM card which can be used to get online with a wireless modem on the 3G network that blankets almost the entire country.

 

Offers by Maldives dive travel

 

Maldives Dive Travel is offering a package from 1^st July to 31^st August where children and teen-agers are free of charge on board. There are also special deals where you get free nights. If you stay for 7 days, you pay for only 6, stay for 10 nights and pay for 8, or stay for a fortnight and pay for only 11 days. This offer is valid from the 1^st of June 2012 to 25^th December 2012, and then from 7^th January 2013 to 25^th December 2013.

Visit the islands of the Maldives on boat Dhoni Stella I or II, and imagine the breathtaking beauty of the seascape afire in the setting sun; inspiration for the hero that saved the country so long ago. Have a beach barbeque with your catch of fish and eat under the canopy of the sparkling starry sky, a style that is truly Maldivian. Book now !

Related posts:

1. Black Pearl Liveaboard Sets Sail for First November Dive
2. Black Pearl set to sail tomorrow on a full charter.