Given that the unique geography of the islands of the Maldives, perhaps the best way to explore this beautiful archipelago is by cruise boat.
There are as many as 150 cruise boats (also called ‘liveaboards’ and ‘safari boats’) operating in the Maldives, meaning that there are now more liveaboards than resorts in the Maldives! They vary greatly in size, facilities and services, from modest boats to exclusive high-end luxury complete with spa services.
These cruise boats can take you to some world-renowned dive sites, as well as fishing trips, excursions to uninhabited islands and also to inhabited ones to give you a glimpse into the local way of life. Some specialise in diving and others in surfing, while some liveaboards simply offer guests the chance to put their feet up and enjoy doing nothing!
If diving is your passion, one of the best ways of getting the most out of the Maldives is by booking a specialist diving liveaboard. If you’re lucky enough you may even see large pelagics such as mantas and whale sharks. You can expect to be offered up to three or four dives per day during a cruise, which typically lasts a week or two. On-board chefs provide your meals while guests have a private cabin with en-suite bathroom. Divers are usually expected to bring their own equipment but most diving liveaboards can provide a few extra pieces such as weights or safety sausages – it’s best to check with the operator. These vessels are staffed by highly experienced professionals who know the Maldivian waters like the backs of their hands. The precise route is usually decided depending upon tides and weather conditions but a general itinerary is usually available in advance. Air and Nitrox is provided on board and many diving liveaboards offer PADI courses.
Surfing season (May-October) runs at the opposite time of year to diving season, although surf can also be found during the rest of the year but the waves may be flatter. Many diving liveaboards double up as surfing liveaboards, giving surfers the chance to sample world-class breaks around the Maldives. Rather like with a diving safari, surfing liveaboards sail around the atolls on an itinerary. They can take surfers to some of the Maldives’ famous surf breaks as well as the less well-known ones in remote locations where you can enjoy the entire break to yourself. All of the surf breaks in the Maldives are coral breaks and are best suited to intermediate to advanced surfers.
If lying back and watching the world go by is more your thing, there are also some liveaboards tailored to simply ‘cruising’. They will take in some of the most beautiful islands and sandbanks in the Maldives, sometimes stopping at a resort for an afternoon or evening. Fishing equipment is usually provided on board, and for those who would like a taste of real Maldivian life, guests can opt to hop off in the capital city or on an ‘inhabited island’ (an island where Maldivians live, as opposed to a private resort island).