Maldives Blue Force 3

Location: Maldives

Rating: 4.8/5 (272 reviews)

About Maldives Blue Force 3

The Maldives Blue Force 3 offers a dedicated platform for exploring the central Maldivian atolls, combining specialized dive operations with comfortable guest accommodations.

Seasonal monsoons govern the rhythm of life in the Maldives, driving nutrient-rich currents through the deep channels that dissect its chain of coral atolls. This immense exchange of water creates an environment defined by strong flows, vibrant soft coral growth, and reliable aggregations of large pelagic species. It is within this dynamic world of 'kandus' and 'thilas' that sharks, manta rays, and massive schools of fish congregate to feed. The 42-meter Maldives Blue Force 3 is a purpose-built platform for accessing these high-energy sites, offering a stable and comfortable base for exploring the region's celebrated underwater action. All diving operations are conducted from a large, separate dive boat known as a dhoni. This traditional Maldivian vessel accompanies the main ship, housing all compressors and individual gear stations. This logistical separation keeps the noise and wet equipment away from the primary living areas, greatly enhancing guest comfort aboard the mothership. Divers prepare on the spacious dhoni before being dropped at precise entry points for drift dives, after which the dhoni picks them up for a short ride back. The experienced dive team provides detailed briefings for every site and offers expert in-water guidance. Life aboard is designed for comfort and relaxation between dives. The vessel accommodates a maximum of 26 guests in 12 air-conditioned cabins, all featuring private ensuite bathrooms. A flexible layout includes twin cabins on the upper deck, double cabins on the main and lower decks, and triple-occupancy cabins on the lower deck, catering to various group and individual needs. Communal spaces include a large indoor salon and lounge area, perfect for socializing or reviewing photos. For those preferring the open air, multiple sun decks provide both shaded and sun-soaked areas to relax and enjoy the ocean scenery. The onboard culinary program focuses on fresh, flavorful meals served buffet-style in the main dining area. The international menu is supplemented with local Maldivian dishes, providing a varied and satisfying selection designed to fuel an active dive schedule. Snacks, fruit, tea, and coffee are readily available throughout the day to keep divers energized. The galley team is prepared to handle most special dietary restrictions, such as vegetarian or gluten-free, with sufficient advance notification. An onboard bar provides a selection of soft drinks, beer, and other spirits for purchase. Measuring 42 meters in length with an 8.7-meter beam, the Maldives Blue Force 3 is a substantial and solid vessel. A complete interior and systems refurbishment was completed in 2018, ensuring modern and reliable guest amenities. The ship is powered by dual 850 HP Caterpillar engines, providing a cruising speed of 12 knots for efficient transit between atolls. The vessel's considerable size and powerful propulsion contribute to its stability during open-ocean crossings, minimizing roll and delivering a more comfortable journey for all guests on board. Maldives Blue Force 3 operates year-round itineraries that concentrate on the classic Central Atolls routes, typically using Malé as the port of arrival and departure. These week-long trips are strategically planned to visit the most famous channel dives and cleaning stations in North Malé, South Malé, and Ari Atolls. The vessel is an excellent choice for intermediate and advanced divers who are confident in currents and seek consistent encounters with sharks, manta rays, and other large marine life. It provides a dedicated, dive-focused experience for guests wanting to immerse themselves in the premier pelagic action of the Maldives.

Vessel Specifications

Length: 42m
Guest capacity: 26
Nitrox: Available

Cabins

Twin Cabin - Upper Deck (sleeps 2) — Double, Single — Located on the upper deck, these twin cabins offer a comfortable double bed and a single bed. Guests will appreciate the air conditioning and the privacy of their own en-suite bathroom with a warm wat
Triple Cabin - Lower Deck (sleeps 3) — Twin, Double — Ideal for small groups or families, these lower deck triple cabins feature two single beds and one double bed. Each cabin is fully air-conditioned and includes a private en-suite bathroom with warm wa
Double Cabin - Lower Deck (sleeps 2) — Double — Located on the lower deck, these comfortable double cabins are equipped with a double bed and a single bed, offering flexible sleeping arrangements. Each cabin features air conditioning and a private
Double Cabin - Main Deck (sleeps 2) — Twin — Situated on the main deck, these double cabins provide two comfortable single beds. Guests will enjoy the convenience of air conditioning and a private en-suite bathroom with a warm water shower.

Itineraries

7 Atolls — Deep South (Male — Gan or Gan — Male, 7N)

Journey to the remote southern atolls of the Maldives, an area known for strong currents and abundant pelagic encounters. This Deep South itinerary explores the channels, reefs, and thilas of Vaavu, Meemu, Thaa, Laamu, Huvadhoo, and Addu, culminating in the unique diving at Fuvahmulah, famed for its tiger shark population. Expect to see reef sharks, manta rays, whale sharks, and diverse coral ecosystems. This route is ideal for experienced divers seeking thrilling drift dives and significant big

Central & Vaavu & Meemu Atolls (Male — Male, 9-10N)

This itinerary explores the central atolls of the Maldives, navigating through North and South Male, Ari, Vaavu, and Meemu Atolls. Divers can anticipate a broad spectrum of Maldivian underwater environments, from vibrant coral reefs and thilas to drift dives along oceanic channels. Encounters with pelagic species such as reef sharks, manta rays, and various schooling fish are common, alongside a rich diversity of smaller reef inhabitants. The route offers a comprehensive experience of the Maldiv

Southern Hemisphere — Deep South (Male — Male, 7N)

Embark on a unique Maldivian deep south expedition, sailing seven nights from Male to the untouched atolls below the equator. This itinerary focuses on remote southern sites like Fuvahmulah and Addu, renowned for consistent pelagic encounters including tiger sharks, thresher sharks, and oceanic manta rays. Expect channel dives in strong currents, offering thrilling drift experiences alongside grey reef sharks, hammerheads, and various reef fish. The journey back north provides opportunities to e

Hanifaru & Extended North (Male — Male, 10-11N)

Explore the rich waters of the Maldives via an extensive northern route, from the vibrant reefs of North Male to the remote atolls of Lhaviyani and Raa. This itinerary offers a high probability of encountering manta rays at Hanifaru Bay (seasonal, usually May-November), alongside diverse reef fish, sharks, and macro life in healthy coral ecosystems. Expect drift dives along outer reefs and channels, with opportunities for sheltered dives within atolls. This journey is designed to showcase both i

Southern Hemisphere — Extended (Male — Male, 10N)

Journey through the southern atolls of the Maldives on this extended itinerary, exploring a remote and pelagic-rich region. Expect drift dives along vibrant reefs, channels, and thilas, with a strong focus on encountering large animals. This route specifically targets the renowned Fuvahmulah and Addu atolls, known for tiger sharks, thresher sharks, oceanic manta rays, and various reef sharks, alongside typical Maldivian reef fish and occasional whale sharks. The deeper southern waters often pres

The Best of the Maldives (Male — Male, 10-11N)

Experience the classic highlights of the Maldives across its central atolls, renowned for their nutrient-rich channels fostering diverse marine ecosystems. This itinerary explores the vibrant coral gardens and drift potential of both North and South Male, delves into the renowned pelagic action of South Ari for whale sharks, and visits the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve of Baa Atoll, home to seasonal manta ray gatherings at Hanifaru Bay. Expect strong currents in some channels, characteristic of Maldi

Central Atolls Classical Route (Male - Male)

Duration: 8 Days / 7 Nights

Embarkation: Male

This celebrated week-long adventure navigates the central Maldivian atolls, featuring North Male, South Male, Felidhoo, and Ari. The trip prioritizes encounters with large pelagic animals, such as various sharks, eagle rays, and dolphins. A key aim is to find whale sharks and manta rays at their cleaning stations. In addition to approximately 18 dives, which include a wreck dive and two renowned night dives with mantas and nurse sharks, the itinerary offers surface activities like island visits,

Central Atolls & Hanifaru (Male - Male)

Duration: 8 Days / 7 Nights

Embarkation: Male

This eight-day voyage is specially designed for manta ray enthusiasts, focusing on the Central Atolls and the renowned Hanifaru Bay. Departing from and returning to Male, the itinerary is timed for the peak season for manta sightings. The flexible route may also venture to Rasdhoo Atoll for pelagic encounters and Ari Atoll for potential whale shark sightings. The trip combines a program of approximately 18 dives with unique snorkeling opportunities in a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. Max guests on t

Central Atolls & Hanifaru

Duration: 8 Days / 7 Nights

Embarkation: Male

This special 8-day seasonal cruise focuses on the central atolls, with a particular emphasis on Baa Atoll and the world-famous Hanifaru Bay. Departing from and returning to Male, the journey is timed for September to maximize encounters with manta rays. The itinerary is designed to be flexible, potentially including dives in North Male, snorkeling in the Hanifaru Bay Biosphere Reserve, searching for pelagics at Rasdhoo, and seeking out whale sharks in Ari Atoll. This trip offers a total of about

Maldives - Central Atolls & Hanifaru (Male - Male)

Duration: 8 Days / 7 Nights

Embarkation: Male

This 8-day itinerary focuses on the central Maldivian atolls, timed for optimal manta ray sightings in Hanifaru Bay. Departing from Male, the cruise heads north to explore Baa Atoll and its famous UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. The flexible route is designed to maximize marine encounters, potentially including pelagic dives in Rasdhoo Atoll, night dives with mantas, and searching for whale sharks in Ari Atoll. This trip offers around 18 dives and is tailored for experienced divers. Max guests on thi