Where is the Maldives?
The Republic of Maldives is an archipelago nation situated in the Indian Ocean, southwest of Sri Lanka and India. It is renowned for its tropical climate, stunning natural beauty, and crystal-clear waters. With 26 atolls comprising over 1,000 coral islands, each with its unique beauty and charm, the Maldives offer a unique combination of luxury, adventure, and natural beauty, with world-class resorts and amenities catering to every need. The islands boast breathtakingly white sandy beaches, cascading into vibrant blue waters, and are permeated by nutrient-rich currents that nourish bustling and colorful reefs, attracting an abundance of marine life. The Maldives is an ideal destination for water sports enthusiasts as well as those simply seeking relaxation, adventure, or a romantic getaway on sunset cruises.
How do I get there?
Visitors can reach the Maldives via air, with the main international airport located in the capital city of Malé.
What's there to see and do in the Maldives?
The Maldives promises an unforgettable experience that will leave you enchanted with its beauty and hospitality. It is well-known as a haven for those seeking rejuvenation and relaxation. Many resorts offer spa treatments, yoga classes, and meditation sessions, providing the perfect escape from the stresses of daily life.
Not only is it a must-visit for anyone looking for a serene and tranquil escape, the Maldives also attract scuba divers from all over the world. It has a diverse topography ranging from sloping reefs with easy drifts to pinnacles, swim-throughs, channels, walls, and more, making it a paradise for divers of all levels. With such an unparalleled seascape, it goes without saying that divers can encounter an array of marine life, including sea turtles, manta rays, whale sharks, and colorful fish species, providing a breathtaking underwater experience.
With its stunning natural beauty, warm hospitality, and an array of activities, visitors are guaranteed an unforgettable experience—whether you're looking for a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or an adventure-filled holiday
Scuba diving in Maldives is a unique and unforgettable experience that offers a wide variety of topography to please all divers. With stunningly white sand beaches rimming each island and vibrant blue waters, Maldives is home to colorful and bustling reefs that catch nutrients left behind by Indian Ocean currents. Pelagic giants such as manta rays, whale sharks, and giant sea turtles come to these islands to feed and be cleaned, providing divers with incredible underwater encounters. The diving in Maldives is year-round, with each season offering its own highlight.
Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity to explore the underwater world of Maldives with Pearl Fleet.
Discover the Hidden Gems of
Maldives in M/Y White Pearl's
Itineraries
Dive into a magical wonderland of marine life in the Maldives!
The Maldives is an extraordinary diving destination that showcases a remarkable diversity of marine life, featuring whale sharks, manta rays, and vibrant coral reefs. Its pristine waters offer remarkable visibility of up to 50 meters, with exceptional underwater landscapes, including caves and thilas. Night dives also provide a chance to witness the enchanting bioluminescent plankton.
Discover the Hidden Gems of Scuba Diving in Maldives ↓
Experience the ultimate escape and dive into the beauty of Maldives with M/Y White Pearl.
Frequently Asked Questions
General
Booking, Flights, and Visas
Cruising on M/Y Black Pearl
Diving from M/Y Black Pearl
What weather should I expect in Maldives?
The Maldives typically experiences a tropical climate with warm temperatures and high humidity throughout the year. The average temperature in the Maldives ranges from around 25–30℃ / 77–86℉ throughout the year.
The Maldives has two distinct seasons: the dry season (northeast monsoon) and the wet season (southwest monsoon). The dry season runs from December to April and is characterized by calm, clear weather with very little rainfall. The wet season, which runs from May to November, is characterized by more frequent rainfall and higher humidity.
However, it’s important to note that weather patterns can vary, and there may be occasional deviations from the typical weather patterns. It’s always a good idea to check the weather forecast before your trip and pack accordingly.
What currencies and cards are accepted in Maldives?
The official currency of the Maldives is the Maldivian rufiyaa (MVR). However, US dollars are also widely accepted in the Maldives, especially at resorts and tourist areas. Some larger establishments may also accept euros and British pounds. Remember to bring new, crisp banknotes, as old or notes that have writing on them will not be accepted.
Major credit cards such as Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted in the Maldives, especially at resorts and tourist areas. However, it’s always a good idea to check with your bank or credit card company to make sure your card will work in the Maldives, and to inform them of your travel plans to avoid any issues with your card being blocked for suspected fraud.
It’s also a good idea to have some cash on hand for small purchases or to use at local markets and shops, especially if you plan to venture outside of the resort areas. ATMs are available in the Maldives, but they may not be available on smaller islands or atolls, so it’s a good idea to withdraw cash in advance if you plan to travel to these areas.
When is the peak season for tourism in Maldives?
What are the languages spoken in Maldives?
However, due to the Maldives’ strong ties to the tourism industry, English is widely spoken and understood in the country, especially in resort areas and among those working in the tourism industry. Many signs, menus, and other materials for tourists are also available in English.
In addition to Dhivehi and English, other languages such as Hindi, Urdu, and various other South Asian languages may also be spoken by some residents of the Maldives, particularly those who work in the tourism industry and have had contact with visitors from those regions.
What are the visa requirements to enter Maldives?
For visitors from most countries, a free 30-day visa will be issued upon arrival in the Maldives. This visa can be extended for up to a total of 90 days, with an extension fee of MVR 750 (approximately USD 50) for each additional 30-day period.
However, for citizens of certain countries, a pre-arrival visa may be required. These countries include:
- Afghanistan
- Bangladesh
- Iran
- Iraq
- North Korea
- Nigeria
- Pakistan
- Syria
- Yemen
Citizens of these countries are required to apply for a visa in advance through a Maldives embassy or consulate.
It’s important to note that visa requirements can change, so it’s always a good idea to check the latest information with the Maldives embassy or consulate in your home country before traveling.
Are group discounts available?
Yes, group discounts are available, depending on total group size. For more details, you may contact our Bookings & Reservations Team atinfo@pearlfleet.org
How are check-in and check-out organized?
Check-In
All the instructions regarding your arrival on the check-in day will be provided a few days before your arrival in Maldives. Embarkation on M/Y White Pearl will be organized after 12:00 PM (local time) on the first day of the cruise. Guests are advised to strictly note the information that will be provided regarding the meeting point and exact time for pick-up.
The usual meeting points are organized as follows:
Airport: Guests arriving at the required airport on the check-in day can be picked up by a representative holding a sign of M/Y White Pearl. The meeting point is usually at the main exit, immediately after luggage collection. However, this may be subject to additional charges and should be confirmed at least a day in advance.
Hotel or Resort: Guests who are staying in a Male or Hulemale hotel prior to their departure on M/Y White Pearl need to assemble at the meeting point at the airport. Most hotels offer airport shuttle buses. Taxis are widely available and cost around US$6. If you stay at a resort, the resort usually offers a boat shuttle to the airport. Check with your resort or hotel if there are additional fees for transportation.
Check-Out
What do I need to pack before leaving my country of travel origin?
Administration and Paperwork
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Passport
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Dive certification cards including Nitrox certification card, if any
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Dive log books
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Dive insurance card or confirmation slip
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Medical clearance from your physician (if any)—especially if you are taking a dive course
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Insurance card or policy paper iGood to Knowncluding ways to contact your insurer in case of emergencies
Special Personal Items
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Personal medication
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Ear drops
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Reef-friendly sunscreen, hats, sun glasses
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Your own toothbrush and toothpaste to go green
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Phone and camera chargers
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Memory sticks or SD cards
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Cash for tips and extra costs (USD)
Dive Bear
- BCD
- Regulator
- Fins/booties
- Mask and snorkel
- Wetsuit
- Dive computer
- Torch with batteries
- SMB
- Hood
- Reef hook
*Please note that dive computers and SMBs are compulsory for every individual diver.
Good to Know
Rental gear is subject to availability. Rental gear is also subject to extra costs. Please refer to our detailed Price List here.
What is included in the cruise fare?
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Full-board accommodation with 3 meals for every full day onboard
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Goods & Services Taxes
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Fuel surcharges
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Free drinking water, coffee, tea, except specialty coffee
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Two-way transfers between the designated airport of arrival/departure to/from M/Y White Pearl
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3 guided dives a day (except 2nd last day), 1 night dive
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12-liter diving tanks, weights and weight belts
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Complimentary Nitrox tanks
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Free Wifi (SIM card can be purchased at the airport.)
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Any array of activities such as Beach BBQ, cocktail Party, SUP, swimming pool, water slide, kayak, etc.
What is excluded from the cruise fare?
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10% service charge (based on the official cabin rate and inclusive of crew gratuities)
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Green Tax ($6/person/night x duration of itinerary)
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Domestic and International flights
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(Optional) Marine Park Fees for optional activities：
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Snorkeling fee in Hanifaru Bay for the Hanifaru Bay & Northern Atolls itinerary
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Dive fee for Tiger Zoo in Fuvahmulah for Wonders of Deep South itinerary
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Pre- or post-cruise accommodation
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Spa treatments and Jetski on demand
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Soft drinks and alcoholic beverages
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15-liter tank rentals and other dive gear rentals
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Diving insurance – can be purchased on board
*All prices are subject to change without notice depending on the market.
Additional Marine Parks Fees in Maldives
Hanifaru Bay - the world’s largest known aggregation of reef manta rays (available in Hanifaru Bay & Northern Atolls Cruises)
Tiger Zoo in Fuvahmulah (available in Wonders of Deep South Cruises)
Examples
Please note also that the Marine Park Fees are payable in Cash, onboard M/Y White Pearl.
Please refer to our detailed Price List here.
I have special dietary requirements. Will this be a problem?
What payment methods are available onboard?
Guests will receive a final invoice listing their extra costs on the final night before disembarkation. Invoices are payable:
By Cash:
We accept American Dollars (USD) and Euros (EUR).
Via Credit / Debit Card:
We accept major credit cards on board: VISA, Mastercard, American Express, and Discover.
What type of electrical sockets are available onboard?
The camera station also provides a variety of sockets and USB ports that should cater to your batteries and charging systems.
Will there be phone and internet signal during the cruise?
How much should I pay for crew gratuities?
Do I need diving insurance?
Guests may also purchase short-term diving insurance onboard to cover the duration of the cruise. This additional service is chargeable.
Are there any dives on check-in day?
What is the recommended diving experience level to dive on M/Y Black Pearl?
We recommend all divers to have a minimum 50 logged dives, with a minimum certification level of Advanced Open Water.
If you have less than the above minimum recommendations stated above, please reach out to us. There are three options for you:
- We can arrange for a private dive guide for you, if a request is made a minimum of one month before departure. This extra service is at additional cost and subject to availability.
- You can get certified as an Advanced Open Water Diver onboard.
- You can do more dives to prepare yourself for the trip.
We recommend a skills review if guests with a limited number of logged dives have not been diving for more than 6 months. The skills review should be completed prior to arrival. Evidence of the date of your last dive should be shown in your log book and indicated at the time of the booking. Every diver, regardless of their qualification or experience, will be required to participate in a check-dive.
Cruise directors may ask you to skip a dive if your ability does not fit with the dive conditions.
Do you provide 15-L diving tanks?
Do you provide Nitrox-filled diving tanks?
Yes, Enriched Air Nitrox is available onboard. Nitrox is available free-of-charge for Enriched Air Nitrox certified divers. Nitrox course is also available onboard.
What type of valves are on the tank?
All our tanks are universal, fitting DIN and Yoke regulators.
Are there any activities for non-divers?
Non-divers can snorkel when the area around the dive site is suitable. We can arrange a snorkel guide if the request is made a minimum of one month before departure, subject to additional charges.
We offer an array of activities such as Beach BBQ, cocktail Party, swimming pool, water slide, local island visit etc.
