Maldives Diving Itinerary

On a typical day we offer up to 4 day dives, however the 4th day dive may be substituted for a night dive when the boat is anchored within an atoll. A 7-night itinerary provides for between 18-20 dives, whilst during our 10-night itineraries, up to 30 dives will be possible.

The diving day aboard the Master Master is scheduled as follows:- Light Breakfast followed by a briefing and Dive 1. Full Breakfast, relaxation period, briefing and Dive 2. Lunch, relaxation period, briefing and Dive 3. Snack relaxation period, briefing and Dive 4, where possible. Dinner. Guests may also take the opportunity to visit the islands and walk upon the pristine beaches.

Dive sites vary, with something for everyone on most itineraries. Currents are the norm in many spots in the Maldives so it is recommended that divers have experience beyond beginner level to ensure maximum enjoyment. Submerged pinnacles, or thilas, in clear blue water offer the chance for larger pelagics, while there are relaxing drift dives along the outer walls of the atoll for those who love to see coral covered vistas.

The Maldives enjoy a warm, tropical climate all year round. The driest season, with lots of sunshine, lasts from January to March. Wet season is from approximately mid-May to November. Year round temperatures do not vary much; around 23C (73F) at night and 31C (88F) during the day. Not surprisingly, water temperatures in the Maldives are also fairly constant over the year; 26-29C (78-84F), except in the far south where it can drop to 24C (75F). Most guests are comfortable in a 3mm or 5mm full wetsuit.

Yacht Information

The 37-metre steel hulled Maldives Master was completely refurbished in 2015 and can welcome up to 26 guests on board. Offering three spacious double suites and ten twin cabins, she is the newest addition to the Master Liveaboards fleet.

Specifically laid-out so guests can spend their holidays aboard in complete relaxation and benefiting from a separate tender and a the largest diving dhoni in the area, there is more than ample space on the Maldives Master for guests to sit back and enjoy their diving cruise.

A generous outdoor dining area, bar and sky lounge, and even a Jacuzzi make for a luxurious stay on board. There are many options to put your feet up after diving; take your pick from three sundecks with comfortable seating and loungers or remain in the shaded lounge on the mid deck.

The Maldives Master is also equipped with a nitrox membrane and spacious charging station.

Schedule and Rates

Master Liveaboards offers a range of services to make your stay on board even more enjoyable.

Land excursions are included in your cruise free of charge and the following are available for an additional fee:
– Full dive equipment rental ( from US$22.50 per dive day)
– Nitrox (US$100-150)
– Alcoholic beverages (prices vary, with beer starting at US$2)
– Master Liveaboards merchandise (prices vary)

Getting there and away… Most itineraries depart from Male and you will need to book your international flight to and from Male airport. For some itineraries, a short domestic flight to Kaadedhdoo airport is required, which we are happy to book for you. If the liveaboard safari begins in Gaafdhal, we recommend booking an early arrival into Male. If the safari ends in Gaafdhal, we recommend booking a late departure from Male. Depending on your onward plans, you can either go directly to the airport or check into a hotel to enjoy the rest of your holiday.

On arrival… Passports must be valid for at least six months from the date of entry into the Maldives and citizens from most Western countries can obtain a 30-day tourist visa upon arrival. Some nationalities may be required to purchase a visa prior to arrival; please consult the consulate of the Maldives in your country for more details. If you are traveling with medication, please ensure to bring your physician’s prescription with you.

Money Matters… The local currency is the Maldivian Rufiyaa: (MVR). Most visitors may never see or use the local currency as US dollars and Euros are accepted everywhere and any extras are billed to your hotel room and you settle the bill at the end with your credit card.

Climate and weather… The Maldives enjoy a warm, tropical climate all year round. The dry season with lots of sunshine lasts from January to March. Wet season is from approximately mid-May to November. Year round temperatures do not vary much: around 23C (73F) at night and 31C (88F) during the day.

Time zone… The local time is 4 hours behind UTC (GMT).

Health… Medical facilities in the Maldives are limited; there are 2 hospitals in Male. There are health centres on most of the atolls. It is recommended to take the usual precautions with uncooked food and refrain from drinking tap water. Check with your doctor about which vaccinations are currently advised.

Travel Advisories… For more in-depth advisories on travel in the Maldives, please take the time to read the following travel advisories and heed their advice:
– US State Department : link to https://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/country/maldives.html
– UK Foreign & Commonwealth Office : link to https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/maldives

Maldives FAQs Whilst we have much information on our website you may find you have additional questions about our dive liveaboard, the diving in the Maldives or general location information. Below are the answers to some commonly asked questions, should you have other questions or queries, please contact our reservations team who will be pleased to assist you.

Can I dive with Nitrox? Yes. All Nitrox qualified divers may opt to dive with nitrox for an additional charge.

I am not Nitrox certified. May I take a Nitrox course whilst on board? We do currently offer dive training courses aboard the Maldives Master. For those wishing to take a Nitrox certification course, please contact our reservations team.

What should I bring with me? Liveaboard lifestyle is relaxed and informal. Essential items include T-shirts, shorts, swim wear, long trousers / sarong/ long skirt, sturdy footwear for island visits and a warm jacket or pullover for cooler nights. Shower gel is provided on board, however guests should bring any hair care or personal beauty products they require, along with sunscreen. We have a fully stocked first aid kit on board, but guests should bring any personal prescription medications with them (with doctor’s note).

Does the Maldives Master have internet on board? We do provide internet free of charge on board the vessel, while the boat is in range.

Can I rent scuba equipment whilst aboard? Yes. We offer BCD, regulator, wetsuit, mask/snorkel and fins for rental on board. Prices per item vary however we also offer a package price of US$40 per day of diving. Computer and Torch (flashlight) may also be rented for a daily fee of US$5 per item.

Must I pay National Park fees? Yes, you will be updated of these when booking and prior to departure

I’m travelling alone. Must I pay a single supplement or may I share a cabin? For solo travelers we offer 2 options. You may choose to have a cabin for yourself for which we charge a single supplement of 80% of the cabin cost (60% of your package price if your package includes international flights). However if you wish to share a cabin, we will place you in a twin cabin with a member of the same sex. We do not mix cabins without express permission of both guests.

Must I spend an additional night in Male either side of my liveaboard trip? We recommend guests spend an additional night 1 day before cruise departure so you’re well rested before the start of the cruise. Disembarkation at the end of the cruise will be just before 10am. If you are not remaining in the Maldives for additional nights after your cruise, please allow plenty of time for the transfer to the airport and for check-in.

Do I need dive insurance? Yes. All divers travelling aboard the Maldives Master must ensure they are fully covered for all diving accident and emergency situations, including coverage for air evacuation. We also strongly advise our guests to obtain comprehensive travel insurance to cover against unforeseeable delays and potential missed flight connections. A combination dive and travel insurance, which includes the option for additional liveaboard cover, may be booked through our Worldwide Dive and Sail office or online through DiveAssure.