With amazing dive sites, 1,200 islands, crystal clear waters, untouched coral reefs and long stretches of shimmering sandy beaches, the Maldives is heaven on earth. With magnificent creatures like whale sharks, turtles, sharks and manta rays gracing its underwater world, the archipelago is a diver's paradise. One of the best ways to explore everything the magical Maldives has to offer is onboard a diving liveaboard. Offering amazing accommodation, large deck areas where you can dine alfresco, relax in a jacuzzi or even watch a movie on an outdoor cinema, spending your holiday onboard one of these liveaboards is akin to staying at a luxury hotel. Here are five of the best Maldives liveaboards that you absolutely have to see to believe:
Azalea
Originally used for private purposes, the Azalea has retained her personalized appeal in the move to providing commercial charter experiences. Enjoy the ultimate in luxury onboard this 38-meter vessel with exclusive decadence at every turn. The Azalea has a host of extra features that will make your scuba diving holiday simply fantastic, including three decks, an on board Jacuzzi and free nitrox!
Blue Force One
Few liveaboard boats in the Maldives, or indeed the world for that matter, can hope to compete with the Blue Force One. Offering the ultimate in luxury and comfort, at a surprisingly affordable price tag, this boat accommodates just 20 guests in its 10 cabins so it's like staying in a great boutique guesthouse! You can also choose from a number of tailored cruises to suit your diving style including freediving trips, underwater photography courses, dedicated diving trips in search of sharks or manta rays, or even bring the kids along to a family-friendly snorkelling and diving cruise.
Scubaspa
The Scubaspa offers a truly unique experience in the Maldives and is perfect for couples or a special honeymoon experience. When staying onboard this luxury vessel you can choose from a dive-only package, or if diving is not your thing, then you can enjoy spa treatments instead thanks to the vessel's on-board spa, complete with a gym, a Jacuzzi and a yoga master. Alternatively, book a combo package and enjoy the best of both worlds! Offering true five-star appeal, the Scubaspa also boasts four spacious decks including a deck that hosts sunset cocktails, live concerts and an open-air cinema, four chefs and an on-board photographer/videographer.
Serenity
The Serenity is one of the newest liveaboards in the Maldives and at 40 meters she brings a class of her own to the islands. Onboard you can expect modern, spacious living spaces and a high level of service. The diving is all done from a tender so you get more space onboard while free underwater photography workshops are offered on selected cruises for those divers looking to hone their skills.
Carpe Novo
This exclusive vessel features just 12 cabins and three luxurious decks, but the highlight of the Carpe Novo is the fantastic cuisine which is prepared by an amazing Sri Lankan chef. The Carpe Novo offers three dives per day within a schedule of itineraries taking in the best diving that the Maldives has to offer.
