MV Emperor Voyager Liveaboard

THE BOAT

Maldives’ waters are amongst one of the richest in terms of marine life diversity and that is part of the reason why all divers dream of exploring them. Another reason are the high standards usually found amongst dive boats in this area and the gorgeous MV Voyager – part of the famous Emperor fleet - lives up to this reputation.

This beautiful and spacious 30 metres vessel was refit in 2014 and accommodates 20 guests in 10 comfortable cabins: two twin cabins on the upper deck, another twin cabin on the main deck and three double cabins, plus four twin cabins on the lower deck, all very pleasantly decorated and with their own private bathroom, as well as individually controlled AC.

The modern MV Voyager was designed to make you feel at home while at sea. The main deck features a spacious indoor saloon with several comfortable sofas and tables and a relaxing outdoor sofa area with a corner bar can also be found on this same deck. The upper deck features a home theatre and some more comfortable sofas, as well as an outside dinning lounge where all your meals and aperitifs will be served while you enjoy the stunning sea views. The sundeck is the place where you will want to go to catch those sun rays to get a tan or simply to get a nap! A library and board games are also available onboard.

The menu was carefully curated, is served buffet style and features an array of delicious dishes that provide the nutrition you need during a period of intense diving.

And because the MV Voyager 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. Visiting a local island for a barbeque under the stars is also on the schedule, should the conditions allow it.

THE DIVING

The Maldives are one of the most spectacular areas to dive worldwide and a knowledgeable and passionate team of 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 dives are done from a 20 metres auxiliary boat (a “dhoni”, as it is locally called), which provides guests with more space onboard the MV Emperor Voyager, 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 Voyager 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 Voyager 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.