Maldives Liveaboards

Maldives Liveaboards

The Maldives is the ultimate liveaboard diving destination — over 1,000 islands, 26 atolls, and some of the richest marine life on the planet. A liveaboard is the only way to reach the best dive sites, from manta cleaning stations to shark-filled channels. Compare every Maldives liveaboard on Blue Rides: filter by price, route, cabin type, and departure date. Every vessel is personally inspected by our team, prices are fully transparent, and all guest reviews are verified. Whether you dream of swimming with whale sharks, cruising through pristine atolls, or exploring deep thilas — find your perfect trip and book with our best-price guarantee.

What Does a Maldives Liveaboard Cost?

Click a price tier to filter boats in that range and find your match.

Budget Liveaboards
$170 – $243 /night

Budget Maldives liveaboards offer excellent value without sacrificing the core diving experience. Expect comfortable shared or private cabins, full-board meals, 3–4 dives per day, and experienced dive guides. Vessels tend to be smaller and more intimate, often traditional dhoni-style boats converted for diving safaris. Perfect for divers who prioritize underwater time over luxury amenities.

Best for:

Solo divers, budget-conscious travelers, dive-focused trips

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Mid-Range Liveaboards
$243 – $286 /night

Mid-range Maldives liveaboards strike the ideal balance between comfort and value. Expect spacious en-suite cabins, sun decks, air conditioning throughout, and dedicated dive dhonis. Many include Nitrox, complimentary WiFi, and varied international cuisine. These vessels typically accommodate 20–26 guests and offer a social, well-organized diving safari experience with professional photography support.

Best for:

Couples, groups of friends, experienced divers seeking comfort

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Luxury & Premium Liveaboards
$286 – $400 /night

Luxury Maldives liveaboards deliver a five-star floating resort experience. Expect spacious suites with ocean views, gourmet dining, spa treatments, jacuzzis, and dedicated dive butlers. Premium vessels feature state-of-the-art dive equipment, underwater camera stations, and exclusive itineraries visiting pristine, less-traveled atolls. Some offer all-inclusive packages covering Nitrox, equipment, and even domestic transfers.

Best for:

Honeymooners, non-diver companions, photographers, luxury travelers

Click to filter boats → (14)

Not Sure Where to Start? Here Are Our Top Picks

Hand-picked by our dive experts — click any vessel to see availability and book.

White Pearl – Best Luxury Liveaboard
Best Luxury Liveaboard

White Pearl

The 56-meter White Pearl (2020) is the epitome of Maldives luxury diving. With contemporary elegance, all-inclusive comfort, and bespoke itineraries, she offers an unparalleled experience for discerning travelers seeking both world-class diving and resort-level amenities.

Maldives Master – Best New Build
Best New Build

Maldives Master

Launched in 2024, the 42-meter Maldives Master features a purpose-built diving dhoni, cutting-edge facilities, and 14 cabins for 26 guests. A state-of-the-art vessel that sets new standards for Maldives liveaboard diving.

Dune Black Manta – Best for Groups
Best for Groups

Dune Black Manta

Built in 2024 with capacity for 28 guests, the Dune Black Manta is ideal for dive clubs and larger groups. Modern facilities, generous deck space, and a social atmosphere make this vessel perfect for shared diving adventures.

Emperor Leo – Best Value All-Inclusive
Best Value All-Inclusive

Emperor Leo

Emperor Leo offers transparent all-inclusive pricing with no hidden costs. At 115 feet and hosting 24 guests, she delivers premium Maldivian diving with the trusted Emperor fleet quality and experienced crew.

Carpe Diem – Best for Beginners
Best for Beginners

Carpe Diem

As a pioneer Maldives liveaboard since 2008, Carpe Diem combines proven reliability with a welcoming atmosphere. Smaller groups of 20 guests ensure personalized attention, and the experienced crew caters to all certification levels.

Blue Force One – Best Award-Winning
Best Award-Winning

Blue Force One

Multiple-award-winning Blue Force One at 138 feet delivers premier diving journeys with just 20 guests. Her reputation for excellence, experienced guides, and carefully curated itineraries make her a top choice for serious divers.

How to Choose the Right Maldives Liveaboard

Choosing the right Maldives liveaboard depends on your priorities: diving experience level, budget, group size, and how much importance you place on above-water comfort. For first-time liveaboard divers, look for vessels with smaller group sizes and experienced guides who can adjust dive plans to your level. Couples and honeymooners should consider luxury vessels with spacious cabins and non-diver activities like snorkeling, spa treatments, and island visits.

Most Maldives liveaboards follow similar itinerary patterns – the North and South Malé Atolls for reef diversity, Ari Atoll for manta rays and whale sharks, and Baa Atoll (May–November) for the famous Hanifaru Bay feeding aggregations. Some vessels specialize in deep south expeditions to Addu and Fuvahmulah for tiger sharks and oceanic mantas – these require advanced certification and are best suited to experienced divers.

Booking 3–6 months in advance is recommended for peak season (January–April). Last-minute deals can appear for shoulder season departures (May–June, October–November) when conditions are still excellent but demand is lower.

Diving Seasons
👆 Click any month for details
Excellent
Good
Adora

Adora

22 Guests 2014123ft / 37mliveaboard
from $272 / day
Nitrox Available
Free Internet Connectivity
Upper-Level Observation Decks
Roomy Interior Common Areas
Broad Exterior Lounging Zones
Premium Social Areas
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Ariyal

Ariyal

26 Guests 2024liveaboard
from $400 / day
Nitrox Available
WiFi
En-Suite bathrooms
Aircon Cabins
Warm Water Showers
Air Conditioned saloon
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Carpe Vita

Carpe Vita

20 Guests 2011liveaboard
from $289 / day
Nitrox Available
WiFi
En-Suite bathrooms
Aircon Cabins
Warm Water Showers
Charging stations
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DUNE Black Manta

DUNE Black Manta

28 Guests 2024138ft / 42mliveaboard
from $170 / day
Nitrox Available
Web Access
Outdoor Eating Space
Massage Area on the Sun Deck
Cocktail Bar and Lounge
Internal Entertainment Room
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DUNE Theia

DUNE Theia

20 Guests 2006105ft / 32mliveaboard
from $245 / day
Nitrox Available
Leisure Sun Deck
Alfresco Eating Area
Lounge with Panoramic Scenery
High-Level Sky Bar
TV Lounge
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Emperor Leo

Emperor Leo

24 Guests 2009115ft / 35mliveaboard
from $243 / day
Nitrox Available
Multimedia Entertainment Center On Board
Internet Access (Paid) On Board
Daily Room Service On Board
Fresh Cabin Linens On Board
Onboard Library On Board
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Emperor Voyager

Emperor Voyager

20 Guests 200498ft / 30mliveaboard
from $228 / day
Sun-lounging deck chairs
Private ensuite bathrooms
Outdoor relaxation lounge
Individual air conditioning
Hammocks for resting
Air-conditioned interior spaces
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Maldives Aggressor II

Maldives Aggressor II

22 Guests 2006135ft / 41mliveaboard
from $273 / day
Nitrox Available
In-Room Television
Warm Water Showers
Clean Towels Supplied
Air-Conditioned Cabins
Private Bathroom Facilities
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Maldives Blue Force 3

Maldives Blue Force 3

26 Guestsliveaboard
from $261 / day
Nitrox Available
En-Suite bathrooms
Aircon Cabins
Warm Water Showers
Air Conditioned saloon
Sun Deck
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Maldives Legend Odyssey

Maldives Legend Odyssey

22 Guests 2022liveaboard
from $284 / day
Nitrox Available
WiFi
En-Suite bathrooms
Aircon Cabins
Warm Water Showers
TV in cabins
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Maldives Legend X

Maldives Legend X

26 Guests 2024131ft / 40mliveaboard
from $356 / day
Nitrox Available
Digital Media Center
Air-Conditioned Indoor Lounge
Outdoor Jacuzzi
High-End Deck Seating
Sun-Soaked Observation Deck
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Pearl 111

Pearl 111

12 Guests 1998liveaboard
from $306 / day
Nitrox Available
WiFi
En-Suite bathrooms
Aircon Cabins
Warm Water Showers
Sun Deck
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Princess Sara

Princess Sara

20 Guests131ft / 40mliveaboard
from $172 / day
Nitrox Available
Nitrox available
Jacuzzi / Hot Tub
Naturalist Guide
En-Suite bathrooms
Family Cabins
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Sachika

Sachika

24 Guests 2007108ft / 33mliveaboard
from $284 / day
Nitrox Available
Universal charging points
Wireless connectivity (paid)
Audio system with Bluetooth
Media player for CD/DVDs
40-inch LCD screen in the dining hall
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Scubaspa Yang

Scubaspa Yang

36 Guests 2014164ft / 50mliveaboard
from $375 / day
Nitrox Available
Yoga Classes
Panoramic Ocean Windows
300 m² Spa Facility
Onboard Gym
Air-Conditioned Social Areas
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ScubaSpa Yin

ScubaSpa Yin

32 Guests 2013164ft / 50mliveaboard
from $375 / day
Nitrox Available
On-site Massage Therapy
Private Ensuite Bathrooms
Comprehensive Wellness Spa
Hot Water Showers
In-room Climate Control
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Searose II

Searose II

22 Guests 2009141ft / 43mliveaboard
from $261 / day
Nitrox Available
En-Suite bathrooms
Aircon Cabins
Warm Water Showers
Complimentary Toiletries
Cabin Towels
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Spirit of Maldives

Spirit of Maldives

26 Guests 2024131ft / 40mliveaboard
from $228 / day
Nitrox Available
Supervised Island Wilderness Walks
Informative Ocean Conservation Talks
Sophisticated Gathering Space
Interior Relaxation Room
Celestial Observation Deck
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Blue Force One

Blue Force One

20 Guests 2013138ft / 42mliveaboard
from $311 / day
Nitrox Available
24-Hour Power Supply
Upper Deck Cocktail Bar
High-End Loungers and Mattresses
Bow Sun Deck
Stern Relaxation Zone
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Maldives Legend Sea Pleasure
20 Guests 2021liveaboard
from $221 / day
Nitrox Available
WiFi
En-Suite bathrooms
Aircon Cabins
Warm Water Showers
Rooms with Balcony
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Maldives Legend Zen

Maldives Legend Zen

24 Guests 2024liveaboard
from $316 / day
Nitrox Available
WiFi
En-Suite bathrooms
Aircon Cabins
Warm Water Showers
TV in cabins
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Maldives Master

Maldives Master

26 Guests 2024135ft / 41mliveaboard
from $207 / day
Nitrox Available
Lounge for Relaxation
Wi-Fi Connectivity
Jacuzzi on Deck
Fresh Towels Provided Mid-Week
Sun-Bathing Terrace
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Carpe Novo

Carpe Novo

22 Guests 2016liveaboard
from $308 / day
Nitrox Available
WiFi
En-Suite bathrooms
Aircon Cabins
Warm Water Showers
Air Conditioned saloon
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EcoPro Mariana

EcoPro Mariana

16 Guests 2005liveaboard
from $236 / day
Nitrox Available
WiFi
En-Suite bathrooms
Aircon Cabins
Warm Water Showers
Air Conditioned saloon
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EcoPro Seascape

EcoPro Seascape

28 Guests 2023liveaboard
from $263 / day
Nitrox Available
WiFi
En-Suite bathrooms
Aircon Cabins
Warm Water Showers
Complimentary Toiletries
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Emperor Serenity

Emperor Serenity

26 Guests 2024131ft / 40mliveaboard
from $272 / day
Nitrox Available
Library of Books
Audio-Visual Media System
Web Access (Paid)
Daily Room Cleaning
Fresh Linens and Towels
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Ocean Divine

Ocean Divine

16 Guests 2006liveaboard
from $287 / day
Nitrox Available
WiFi
En-Suite bathrooms
Aircon Cabins
Warm Water Showers
Massage
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Seafari Explorer II

Seafari Explorer II

24 Guests 2016131ft / 40mliveaboard
from $263 / day
Nitrox Available
Exterior Chill-out Zone
Big Screen for Movies and Media
Sun-Drenched Roof Decks
Al Fresco Beverage Station
Brightly Lit Interior Lounge
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White Pearl

White Pearl

26 Guests 2020183ft / 56mliveaboard
from $365 / day
Nitrox Available
Free WiFi
Free Nitrox
Cosmic-Style Interior Spa
7-Meter Main Deck Jacuzzi
En-Suite Bathrooms
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Amba

Amba

20 Guests 2004105ft / 32mliveaboard
from $177 / day
Nitrox Available
Expert Service Staff
German-led Trip Management
Expansive Solarium
Sunbathing Recliners
Indoor Dining Area
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Carpe Diem

Carpe Diem

20 Guests 2008115ft / 35mliveaboard
from $224 / day
Nitrox Available
Digital media center
Internet connectivity (extra charge)
Ensuite private bathrooms
Air-conditioned cabins
Daily housekeeping
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Emperor Virgo

Emperor Virgo

18 Guests 2012115ft / 35mliveaboard
from $243 / day
Nitrox Available
Media and entertainment system
Paid Wi-Fi connectivity
Large windows for views (Upper deck)
Outdoor sun towels
Fresh linens for cabins
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Princess Maani

Princess Maani

28 Guests 2024134ft / 41mliveaboard
from $305 / day
Nitrox Available
Internet Connectivity
Soft Bean Bag Chairs
Sunbathing Area with Loungers
On-site Massage Services
Daily Housekeeping
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Felicity

Felicity

26 Guests 2021liveaboard
from $400 / day
Nitrox Available
WiFi
En-Suite bathrooms
Aircon Cabins
Warm Water Showers
Seaview Cabins
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Horizon III

Horizon III

25 Guests 2009118ft / 36mliveaboard
from $225 / day
Nitrox Available
Board Games Collection
Sunbathing Deck with Recliners
Jacuzzi on Deck
Drink Service Bar
In-house Massage Therapy
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Nautilus Two

Nautilus Two

24 Guests 2007liveaboard
from $223 / day
Nitrox Available
WiFi
En-Suite bathrooms
Aircon Cabins
Warm Water Showers
Non-Smoking Rooms
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Conte Max

Conte Max

20 Guests 2004liveaboard
from $255 / day
Nitrox Available
WiFi
En-Suite bathrooms
Aircon Cabins
Warm Water Showers
Individual climate control
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Iruvai

Iruvai

20 Guests 2004100ft / 30mliveaboard
from $177 / day
Nitrox Available
WiFi
En-Suite bathrooms
Aircon Cabins
Warm Water Showers
Hair Dryer in Cabin
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Emperor Explorer II
26 Guests 2026liveaboard
from $286 / day
Nitrox Available
WiFi
Air conditioning
En-suite bathrooms
Towels
Hair dryers
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Best Time to Dive Maldives

The Maldives offers year-round diving, but conditions and marine life vary significantly between seasons. Understanding the two monsoon seasons is key to choosing the right trip.

Northeast Monsoon (December – April) — Dry Season

The most popular season with calm seas, excellent visibility (30m+), and warm water temperatures around 28–30°C. The eastern side of the atolls offers the best conditions. This is prime time for manta ray encounters at cleaning stations in Ari Atoll and North Malé Atoll.

Best visibility (30m+)Calm seas & easy divingManta rays at cleaning stationsHammerhead sharks in the south

Southwest Monsoon (May – November) — Wet Season

Plankton-rich currents attract whale sharks to South Ari Atoll, and manta rays gather in huge numbers at Hanifaru Bay (Baa Atoll) between June and November. Expect occasional rain, stronger currents, and slightly reduced visibility — but the big animal encounters more than compensate.

Whale shark season (South Ari)Manta feeding frenzy at Hanifaru BayFewer crowds & better pricesNutrient-rich waters attract pelagics

Shoulder Seasons (April/May & November)

Transition months often deliver the best of both worlds: reasonable prices, good visibility, and a chance to see both mantas and whale sharks. Many experienced divers consider these the sweet spot.

Popular Maldives Liveaboard Routes

Most Maldives liveaboards follow well-established routes that maximise marine life encounters. Here are the most popular itineraries:

Best of Maldives (Central Atolls)

7 nightsYear-round

The classic route through North & South Malé, Ari, Vaavu, and Rasdhoo Atolls. Expect reef sharks, manta rays, eagle rays, and vibrant coral gardens. Ideal for first-time Maldives divers.

Deep South Expedition

10–12 nightsJanuary – April

Venture to Huvadhoo, Addu, and Fuvahmulah — remote atolls with pristine reefs, tiger sharks, oceanic mantas, and the famous Fuvahmulah tiger shark dive. For experienced divers seeking adventure.

Whale Shark & Manta Safari

7–10 nightsJune – November

Focused on South Ari Atoll for whale shark encounters and Baa Atoll's Hanifaru Bay for manta feeding aggregations. One of the world's most spectacular marine life experiences.

Northern Explorer

7 nightsYear-round

Covers Baa, Raa, and Lhaviyani Atolls with stunning thilas, channels, and less-visited dive sites. Great for divers who have already done the central route and want something new.

Two Hemispheres Crossing

10–14 nightsCheck schedule

An epic voyage crossing the equator, visiting 8–10 atolls from north to south (or reverse). Combines the highlights of multiple routes into one extended expedition — the ultimate Maldives liveaboard experience.

Maldives Liveaboard FAQ

Planning your first Maldives dive safari? Below you'll find answers to the most common questions – from visa requirements and costs to what marine life awaits you. If anything is still unclear, our team is happy to help.