Escape to paradise in the Maldives, where luxury meets natural beauty.
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
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Best of Central Atolls
8 Days / 7 Nights
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Best of Central Atolls
11 Days / 10 Nights
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Hanifaru Bay & Northern Atolls
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Wonders of Deep South
7 Nights
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Wonders of Deep South
10 Nights
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South & Central Atolls
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.
Experience the ultimate escape and dive into the beauty of Maldives with M/Y White Pearl.
Frequently Asked Questions
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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.
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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.
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The peak tourism season in the Maldives is from December to April, which coincides with the dry season (northeast monsoon). During this time, the weather is generally sunny and dry with very little rainfall, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities such as swimming, diving, and sunbathing. The water is also clear and calm, making it an ideal time for snorkeling and diving.
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The official language of the Maldives is Dhivehi, which is an Indo-Aryan language spoken by the majority of the population. Dhivehi is a complex language with its own unique script and grammar.
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.
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Visa requirements for entering the Maldives vary depending on the traveler's nationality and the length of their stay.
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.
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Yes, group discounts are available, depending on total group size. For more details, you may contact our Bookings & Reservations Team at info@pearlfleet.org.
How are check-in and check-out organized?
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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 at either 12:00 PM or 4:00 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.
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On the last day of the cruise, guests will be transferred to the airport at least 2 hours before the time of departure of their flights. Check-out and disembarkation will be organized from 7:00 AM to 9:00 AM on the last day. Guests who have extended their stay in the Maldives, and who are headed to a hotel, may request a transfer to their respective hotels, subject to additional charges.
What do I need to pack before leaving my country of travel origin?
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Passport
Dive certification cards
Log books
Dive insurance card and/or confirmation slip
Medical clearance from your physician (if any)
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Personal medication
Ear drops
Reef-friendly sunscreen, hats, sun glasses
Phone and camera chargers
Memory sticks or SD cards
Cash for tips and extra costs (USD)
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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.
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Any piece of equipment listed above is available for rent onboard. It would be necessary to let us know in advance, should you need to rent items from the yacht.
Rental gear is subject to availability. Rental gear is also subject to extra costs. Please refer to our detailed Price List here.
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Full-board accommodation with 3 meals for every full day onboard
Free drinking water, coffee, tea, except specialty coffee
Two-way transfers between the designated airport of arrival/departure to and from M/Y White Pearl
Up to 3 to 4 guided dives a day
12-liter diving tanks, weights and weight belts
Complimentary Nitrox-filled diving tanks
Goods & Services Taxes
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Fuel surcharges*
Green Tax ($6/person/day x duration of itinerary)
Marine Park Fees for optional activities:
$30/person/snorkel fee in Hanifaru Bay for the Hanifaru Bay & Northern Atolls itinerary
$30/person/dive fee for Tiger Zoo in Fuvahmulah for Wonders of Deep South itinerary
Domestic and International flights
Pre- or post-cruise accommodation
Spa treatments
Soft drinks and alcoholic beverages
15-liter tank rentals and other dive gear rentals
Internet - can be purchased on board
Diving insurance - can be purchased on board
Crew gratuities
*At the time of writing, fuel surcharge is $20/person/day x duration of itinerary, to be paid onboard at the end of the trip.
Additional Marine Parks Fees in Maldives
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The bay and its manta rays and whale sharks in Hanifaru Bay are part of a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve. Being a Marine Protected Area (MPA), diving is not permitted but snorkeling is. Entering the bay costs US$30 per tourist. All benefits go to the Baa Atoll Conservation funds.
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At Tiger Zoo Fuvahmulah, a single dive can offer a magnificent opportunity to encounter various uncommon species of sharks, including Thresher Sharks, tiger sharks, hammerhead sharks, and enormous whale sharks that frequent the area all year round. Notably, the population of tiger sharks found in the nearby waters is the largest in the archipelago, which aptly justifies the site's name as the most exceptional diving spot in the Maldives. Diving at Tiger Zoo costs US$30 per tourist.
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13-day 12-nights Wonders of Deep South Cruise: US$[(13x6) + 30] = US$108
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.
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At Pearl Fleet, we strive to provide our guests with a seamless and enjoyable cruise experience. If you have any specific dietary needs or allergies, please inform us when making your reservation. Our dedicated chefs are eager to accommodate your requests whenever feasible. It's important to note that being situated in a remote island like the Maldives may limit the availability of certain foods and ingredients. Therefore, if you have highly restrictive dietary requirements or require a particular ingredient, kindly bring it along with you at your own expense.
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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, and American Express.
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International sockets that can fit any type of electric plug are available onboard. Voltage is 220V.
The camera station also provides a variety of sockets and USB ports that should cater to your batteries and charging systems.
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There may be limited or no access to mobile networks once the yacht sails into a remote area or open sea. However, M/Y White Pearl offers SIM card services for you to purchase and use during the cruise.
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The team at Pearl Fleet works hard to ensure your maximum comfort and enjoyment during the cruise. It is a common practice to offer a small gratuity at the end of your trip. As a guide, it is customary to offer gratuities of about 10-15% of the cost of your cruise, for a week-long cruise. All the gratuities collected will be equally shared among the crew. Gratuities must be given in cash.
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The price of the cruise does not include any type of insurance coverage. However, diving insurance is compulsory for all divers diving from M/Y White Pearl. Your travel insurance may cover diving activities and related incidents. It is your responsibility to check if you are duly covered and under the necessary coverage (maximum depth, recompression chamber fees, etc.) for you to cruise with us. Please bring your diving insurance card and/or confirmation details with you onboard.
Guests may also purchase short-term diving insurance onboard to cover the duration of the cruise. This additional service is chargeable. Please refer to our detailed Price List here.
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Most guests will arrive in Maldives after a long journey or flight from their country of travel origin. On M/Y White Pearl, the check-in day is dedicated to welcoming all guests and making them comfortable onboard in order to kickstart a memorable cruise. Thus, no diving activities are organized on the first day.
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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.
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Yes, 15-liter tanks are available on a first-come-first-serve basis. They can also be pre-booked. They are subject to extra cost, payable onboard. Please refer to our detailed Price List here.
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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.
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All our tanks are universal, fitting DIN and Yoke regulators.
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Non-divers are welcome onboard M/Y White Pearl! They can enjoy onboard facilities such as the fitness area, SPA, or just spend time relaxing on our beautiful sundeck.
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.
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Yes, M/Y White Pearl is equipped with a camera station with a decent space and a variety of plugs and USB ports that should be useful to any underwater photographer or videographer. We also provide various rinsing tanks next to the diving preparation area.
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On the day before departure, we plan for 2 dives in the morning. Finishing around 12 noon. This gives you the whole afternoon to dry your equipment. We advise not to dive 24 hours before flights, so if you have an early morning flight this could be only 1 dive or none.
