MV Emperor Virgo Liveaboard

THE BOAT

Maldives’ waters are a true paradise, so if you decide to explore them you should do it aboard a boat that is equally superb. The high-end yacht MV Virgo – part of the famous Emperor fleet - is the perfect option to do so!

This modern liveaboard is 32 metres long and is very spacious, as it caters to a maximum of 18 guests only. It has five cabins on the lower deck, two on the main deck and another two on the upper deck. All the cabins are beautifully decorated and offer twin or double bed options (one of the cabins on the lower deck can be booked as a triple), feature their own private toilet and individually controlled AC. The cabins on the main and on the upper deck have amazing views over the Maldivian landscape!

The stylish MV Virgo exudes quality and was decorated in a contemporary style using light wood. The saloon with its comfortable sofas is where you can relax away from the heat while reading a book or planning your next dive. And should you want to enjoy a drink at the same time, a fully licensed bar is also available on the same deck. The upper deck is the perfect spot for sunbathing or having your favourite sundowner from the bar featuring an amazing international selection of cocktails, wine and beers.

All the meals include mouth-watering international dishes and are on the gorgeous restaurant-style dining area.

And because the MV Virgo 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 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 14 metres auxiliary boat (a “dhoni”, as it is locally called), which provides guests with more space onboard the MV Emperor Virgo, makes divers’ pick up easier and guarantees that you jump into the water right where the dive site is. The vessel is rebreather friendly (it supports Poseidon MKV1, AP vision and manual megaldon units), 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 Virgo 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 Virgo 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.