Full board

When booking a liveaboard trip that includes full board, the cost of your accommodation and all primary meals is bundled into the overall price. Upon embarkation, guests are provided with a schedule for meal times, which are typically served buffet-style or as plated meals in a communal dining area. Breakfast usually precedes the first dive of the day, lunch is served between dives, and dinner concludes the day after diving activities have finished.

The culinary experience on liveaboards can range from simple, hearty fare to gourmet dining, depending on the vessel and region. Chefs often cater to a diverse international clientele, offering a mix of local and international dishes. Most liveaboard operators require guests to communicate any dietary restrictions or allergies well in advance of the trip, allowing the kitchen staff to make necessary provisions and ensure a safe and enjoyable dining experience for everyone.

Beyond the main meals, many full board packages also include regular snacks between dives, such as fresh fruit, biscuits, or sandwiches, and an unlimited supply of drinking water, tea, and coffee. While some liveaboards might offer complimentary soft drinks, it is more common for alcoholic beverages, canned/bottled soft drinks, and fresh juices to be available for purchase, often recorded on a tab to be settled at the end of the trip.

For divers on a liveaboard, full board is incredibly advantageous. It eliminates the need to carry cash for meals or search for dining options, which are often non-existent in remote dive destinations. This allows divers to fully immerse themselves in the diving experience, with minimal interruptions for logistical concerns. The focus remains on diving, relaxation, and camaraderie with fellow divers.

The social aspect of full board on a liveaboard is also significant. Meals are typically served in a communal dining area, providing opportunities for divers to share their experiences from the day's dives, discuss marine life sightings, and get to know each other. This shared dining experience contributes to the overall atmosphere and sense of community that is characteristic of liveaboard trips.

When reviewing liveaboard itineraries and pricing, it is important to confirm precisely what is covered under the full board plan. While the core meals are always included, understanding the scope of beverages and snacks can help in budgeting for any additional expenses. Blue Rides lists liveaboards worldwide, and each listing typically details the meal plan inclusions for complete transparency.

Myth: Full board means all food and drinks are free, including alcohol. Fact: While full board covers all main meals and often non-alcoholic beverages like water, tea, and coffee, alcoholic drinks, specialty coffees, and sometimes bottled soft drinks are almost always an additional cost on liveaboards. Always check the specific inclusions of your trip.

Myth: Full board offers unlimited à la carte dining choices. Fact: Most liveaboard full board plans offer set menus or buffet-style meals at specific times. While dietary restrictions are usually accommodated with prior notice, the selection is determined by the chef and the provisions available on board, not an extensive à la carte menu.

Myth: Full board guarantees 24/7 access to food. Fact: Liveaboard meal times are typically scheduled around the dive plan. While snacks are often available between meals, there isn't usually a continuous, round-the-clock food service. Guests are expected to eat during the designated meal slots.

Myth: Full board is the same as "all-inclusive." Fact: While similar, "all-inclusive" often implies a wider range of inclusions beyond just food and non-alcoholic drinks, such as alcoholic beverages, some activities, and possibly even equipment rental. Full board specifically refers to the accommodation and meal plan.