Cruise in the Maldives

Benefits of a cabin cruise in the Maldives

1. Social atmosphere

A cabin cruise is perfect if you enjoy meeting new people while traveling.
Share the adventure with fellow explorers, exchange stories over meals, and make new friends, all while still having the comfort and privacy of your own cabin.

2. Stress-free travel

Everything is taken care of for you: itineraries, meals, excursions, and even equipment for snorkeling or diving.
No need to worry about logistics, just relax and enjoy the journey while the crew handles the details.

3. Scenic access

Unlike a resort stay limited to one island, a cabin cruise lets you discover multiple atolls and untouched islands in a single trip.
From secluded sandbanks to vibrant reefs, you’ll wake up to a new view every day.

4. Unique experiences

Swim with manta rays, snorkel among colorful coral reefs, spot dolphins, or even dive with whale sharks in season.
These once-in-a-lifetime encounters are made possible by cruising through the Maldives’ most stunning waters.

Itinerary for a cruise in the Maldives

Experience the Maldives like never before on an 8-day cabin cruise aboard a traditional dhoni.

Arrive at Velana International Airport (MLE) and transfer to your traditional dhoni. Meet the crew, settle into your cabin, and sail to Velassaru. Swim in turquoise lagoons, relax on sandy beaches, and enjoy your first dinner on board.

Sail to Ari Atoll on Day 2, home to world-famous dive sites. Snorkel or dive at Mushimasmigili Thila, where reef sharks, napoleon fish, and schools of platax await. Try your hand at sunset fishing before dinner.

Discover Maaya Thila on Day 3, ideal for both beginners and experienced divers, with grey reef sharks, rays, and moray eels. Weather permitting, a magical night dive may be offered. Visit the charming local village of Maalhos in the evening.

Start Day 4 at the Panettone reef, often visited by majestic manta rays. Continue to Radhdhiga for palm-shaded beaches, snorkeling, and pure relaxation.

Spend the day on the island of Fenfushi on Day 5, known for coral-stone houses, traditional crafts, and one of the Maldives’ oldest mosques. Dive in the nearby Hurasdhoo marine reserve or shop for local souvenirs.

On Day 6 explore the vibrant village of Dhangheti, famous for its giant ficus trees, colorful streets, and white-sand beaches. Snorkel or dive in the surrounding coral reefs teeming with marine life.

Cruise back to the capital on Day 7. Highlights include the Grand Mosque, Islamic Centre, National Museum, Sultan’s Garden, and lively local markets. Enjoy a final evening onboard your dhoni.

On your final day, transfer to Malé Airport for your onward flight, ending your unforgettable Maldives cruise.

Activities and Excursions on a Cabin Cruise in the Maldives

On a Maldives cabin cruise, every day brings new adventures: Dive or snorkel in coral reefs, swimming alongside manta rays, reef sharks, and colorful tropical fish. Explore local islands to experience traditional Maldivian villages, coral-stone houses, and bustling markets.Enjoy water sports such as kayaking and paddleboarding, or simply relax on pristine white-sand beaches and soak up the sun from your dhoni. Try your hand at sunset or night fishing with the crew, adding a true local touch to your journey.
For a unique experience, partake in night snorkeling or diving, and immerse yourself in the culture and cuisine of the Maldives during village visits.

Wind, sea and weather conditions in the Maldives

Sailing in the Maldives offers a unique combination of calm waters, gentle winds, and tropical sunshine, making it ideal for a cabin cruise.

Wind conditions:

• The Maldives generally enjoys moderate winds, perfect for smooth sailing.
• The northeast monsoon (December to March) brings steady, gentle breezes, while the southwest monsoon (May to October) can produce stronger winds, though sheltered atolls remain calm.

Sea conditions:

• The waters of the Maldives are famously clear and calm, with visibility often reaching 30 meters at popular snorkeling and diving sites.
• Most atolls provide safe, beginner-friendly conditions, while some channels may have mild currents for more experienced swimmers.

Weather conditions:

• With a tropical climate, temperatures range from 27–32°C year-round.
• The dry season (November to April) offers sunny skies and ideal cruising conditions, while the wet season (May to October) brings occasional rain but still allows for exploration of lush islands and vibrant reefs.

How to get to the Maldives

Reaching the Maldives is easy, with Velana International Airport (MLE) in Malé serving as the main gateway.
Direct flights connect Malé to major cities across Europe, Asia, and the Middle East, making it accessible from around the world.
From the airport, travelers can transfer to their cabin cruise via speedboat or seaplane, often departing from Malé Marina or Hulhumalé Lagoon. Transfers are typically arranged by the cruise operator, ensuring a smooth start to your sailing adventure through the stunning Malé and Ari Atolls.