Sachika

Location: Maldives

Rating: 4.8/5 (272 reviews)

About Sachika

The 32.9-meter Sachika offers dive excursions through the Maldivian atolls, recently refurbished in 2022 for updated comfort.

From the air, the Maldivian atolls appear as circular patterns of sand and reef in the Indian Ocean. This surface geography reflects a complex underwater world of channels, or 'kandus', that funnel nutrient-rich water through the atoll chain. These currents are the lifeblood of the ecosystem, supporting a high density of marine biomass and attracting large pelagic animals. Divers can expect encounters with manta rays at cleaning stations, various shark species patrolling reef edges, and schools of tuna in the blue. The 32.9-meter Sachika is built to navigate these waters, providing a dedicated platform for exploring the region’s signature dive sites. All diving is conducted from a separate support vessel, a 5-meter Boston Whaler 'dinghy' with a 50hp Suzuki engine. This choice keeps the main vessel free from compressor noise and wet gear, enhancing onboard comfort. Guests prepare at individual stations on the main deck before short tender rides to the dive sites. Experienced local guides lead all excursions, providing briefings and managing in-water safety. Essential equipment, including surface marker buoys and reef hooks for navigating strong currents, is provided. Life aboard Sachika is designed for comfort between dives. The vessel accommodates up to 24 guests in air-conditioned cabins, each with a private bathroom, mini-refrigerator, and hairdryer. Multiple social areas offer a choice of environments, including a main interior lounge and a shaded outdoor seating area aft. The top deck features an open area with loungers for sun exposure. An outdoor Jacuzzi offers a warm-water option to unwind after a full day in the ocean. The culinary program focuses on providing wholesome meals to fuel an active diving schedule. The chef prepares a variety of dishes from international and local influences, served in a communal dining area where guests can share the day's experiences. Meals are made with fresh ingredients and the menu is structured for variety. Special dietary needs can be addressed with advance notice. Water, tea, and coffee are available at any time. Sachika is a 32.9-meter motor yacht with a generous 10.1-meter beam, a design that adds stability during crossings. Built in 2007, the vessel underwent a full refurbishment in 2022, ensuring its facilities are modern. It is powered by a Yanmar 480 HP engine, providing a cruising speed of 11 knots between atolls. With a capacity for 24 guests, the ship's size and layout are well-suited for week-long itineraries. A freshwater shower is located on the main deck for post-dive rinsing. The vessel concentrates on classic itineraries through the central Maldivian atolls, with routes adjusted seasonally to follow marine life. Trips are planned around the two monsoon seasons to target the best conditions for manta ray and whale shark sightings. Most voyages begin and end in the central region for efficient access to well-known channels and pinnacles. Sachika is an excellent choice for divers seeking a proven, comfortable, and well-managed operation focused on the Maldives' most productive sites. It suits travelers who value a serious dive program combined with ample social spaces.

Vessel Specifications

Length: 32.9m
Guest capacity: 24
Year built: 2007
Nitrox: Available

Cabins

Suite (sleeps 2) — 1 King bed — Located on the upper deck with a king-size bed, LCD monitor with CD/DVD player (maximum for 2 pax). All cabins are furnished with an independent air conditioner, mini-bar, bathroom with spacious showe
Junior Suite (sleeps 2) — 1 Single + 1 King — Located on the accommodation deck - with a king-size bed + single bed, bathroom with shower and bathtub (maximum for 3 pax). The cabin is furnished with an independent air conditioner, mini-bar, bathr
Standard Double/Twin (sleeps 2) — twin/double — Double or Twin Cabins are located on the accommodation deck. All cabins are furnished with an independent air conditioner, mini-bar, bathroom with spacious shower rooms (soap and shower gel available
Standard Twin (sleeps 2) — twin/double — Double or Twin Cabins are located on the accommodation deck. All cabins are furnished with an independent air conditioner, mini-bar, bathroom with spacious shower rooms (soap and shower gel available

Itineraries

Best of Central Atolls (Male - Male)

Duration: 8 Days / 7 Nights

Embarkation: Male, Maldives

This eight-day journey explores the renowned central atolls of the Maldives: North Male, South Male, and Ari. Our adventure begins in the southern areas, where we investigate shipwrecks and channels, which come alive with currents, attracting sharks and sea turtles. Next, we head to South Ari Atoll, an area recognized for its submerged pinnacles, frequent dolphin appearances, and potential sightings of whale sharks and manta rays. The trip then progresses north through Ari Atoll, stopping at wel

Wild Deep South

Duration: 9 Nights

A pelagic-focused expedition to the rarely visited Deep South of the Maldives. Cross the One-and-a-Half-Degree Channel into Huvadhoo, dive with tiger sharks and oceanic threshers at Foammulah and explore the British Loyalty wreck and manta cleaning stations of Addu.

10 Atolls, 2 Hemispheres — Way DOWN

Duration: 12 Nights

A south-bound crossing through ten atolls and across the equator. From the busy channels of Male the route descends through Vaavu, Meemu, Thaa and Laamu — almost untouched diving with thresher chances at dawn — into Huvadhoo, Foammulah's tiger sharks and the wrecks and mantas of Addu.

10 Atolls, 2 Hemispheres — Way UP

Duration: 12 Nights

The northbound mirror of the Deep South crossing. Start in Addu, dive the British Loyalty wreck and Maa Kandu mantas, cross the equator at Foammulah for tiger sharks, then sail north through Huvadhoo, Laamu, Thaa, Meemu and Vaavu back to the Male atolls.

Best of Central Atolls XL

Duration: 10 Nights

An extended 10-night cruise through the heart of the Maldives, combining the best channels, thilas and reefs of North & South Male, Ari, Rasdhoo and Vaavu. Expect grey reef shark action, manta cleaning stations, whale shark searches on Ari's south coast and a night dive with nurse sharks at Alimatha.

Manta Madness (Male - Male)

Duration: 8 Days / 7 Nights

Embarkation: Male, Maldives

This 8-day journey focuses on the central atolls of the Maldives, offering a chance to see the region's famous marine megafauna. The trip begins in North Malé Atoll, known for its pelagic predators and manta cleaning stations. A key highlight is the visit to Baa Atoll, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, where hundreds of manta rays congregate at Hanifaru Bay, sometimes accompanied by whale sharks. The itinerary also explores the deep channels of Rasdhoo Atoll and the vibrant, colorful reefs of Ari Atol

Northern Highlights (Male - Male)

Duration: 11 Days / 10 Nights

Embarkation: Male

This liveaboard expedition explores the northernmost atolls of the Maldivian archipelago. Our adventure commences in North Malé Atoll. The itinerary then extends to Lhaviyani Atoll, known for shipwrecks and its abundance of sharks, before moving on to Noonu Atoll's undisturbed coral formations. Following this, guests will encounter Raa Atoll, where manta rays and whale sharks are often observed. We then visit Baa Atoll, home to Hanifaru Bay. The trip culminates with explorations around Rasdhoo A