MV Emperor Atoll Liveaboard

THE BOAT

No other boat in the Maldives allows you to have such a personalized and intimate experience while exploring this country’s unique underwater world as the MV Atoll! Part of the famous Emperor fleet, this boat is a classic sought after by many returning costumers looking to enjoy yet again the special atmosphere lived aboard.

This charming wood boat is perfect for dive centres or groups wanting to charter the boat for themselves, as it caters to a maximum of 12 guests only. These are accommodated in six comfortable cabins located on the lower deck, all of them with a double bed plus a single bunk bed above it, as well as with their own private bathroom, fan and individually controlled AC.

Featuring only one deck above the main deck, the Atoll is more stable than most other boats operating in the area. On its main deck is where you will find a large saloon with loads of sitting and table areas, as well as an LCD screen with multi-system home theatre where you can watch one of the many choices available at the onboard film library. The saloon also houses a wide book selection offering loads of information on marine life, as well as countless recharging points for your underwater cameras and electronic devices. Meals are also taken on this deck and, should the weather allow it, they are served on the open foredeck table so that you can enjoy the sea breeze at the same time.

The partially shaded sundeck is the perfect place for sun lovers to get a tan while relaxing on the comfortable sun recliners.

The food onboard is famous for its superb quality and a large variety of both national and European dishes (including vegetarian options) is served on a daily basis. The MV Atoll is also fully licensed to sell soft drinks, beer, wine and spirits, meaning that you will be able to toast to a perfect day of diving with your favourite drink while watching the sun going down over the Maldivian horizon.

And because the MV Atoll also caters for non-divers, these can simply relax onboard while an attentive crew looks after their needs, or go snorkeling, as they will be treated to a free snorkeling kit, as well as to an amazing offer of $50 to spend on board.

THE DIVING

The Maldives are one of the most spectacular areas to dive worldwide and a knowledgeable and passionate team of two dive professionals will guide you through the wonders of its seas, home to whale sharks, the largest population of manta rays in the world and even hammerheads. They will ensure that, no matter what your experience or expectation level is, the whole adventure will be one to remember!

All dive sites are reached directly from the boat or from a 15 metres auxiliary boat (a “dhoni”, as it is locally called), which provides guests with more space onboard the MV Emperor Atoll, makes divers’ pick up easier and guarantees that you jump into the water right where the dive site is. The vessel is rebreather friendly, offers fully serviced dive and safety equipment as well as a photography charging station and Nitrox is available for free.

Divers wanting to join this trip do not need to have a minimum number of dives logged, but should have at least an Open Water Diver certification (in which case the maximum depth they will go to will be 18 metres) and should be comfortable with drift dives, as currents can be strong. The MV Emperor Atoll also offers PADI Adventure Dives and selected specialties (subject to availability and itinerary), meaning that guests can further their diving education while holidaying onboard this yacht, always in a fun and safe way and under the supervision of a dedicated dive instructor.

Proof of a valid dive insurance coverage from a reputable company is mandatory and those wanting to purchase it specifically for this trip can do so onboard.

WHEN TO GO

Conditions are at their best between October and May, but the diving is very good all year round, as pelagics are always present. Learn more about when to dive in the Maldives.

HOW TO GET THERE

Book your flight into Male, the country’s capital. A member of the MV Emperor Atoll staff will be meeting you in Male at Ibrahim Nasir International Airport. Transfers from the airport to the boat run at 11h00, 16h00 and 22h30 and are free of charge. Guests who use the 11h00 transfer have to accept that the boat will not be fully cleaned or ready. On the last day you will be back at the airport either at 07h30 or at 09h30. If your route does not start in Male and requires a domestic flight on arrival, then you will be met by an Emperor representative where possible, and assisted with the check-in formalities for your flight. Full details will be provided at the time of booking.