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Emperor EXPLORER

Experience - Emperor EXPLORER

Emperor’s flagship, she brings a class of her own to the magic Maldivian waters. with regular glowing reviews, she brings you spacious living where Emperor’s fine service standard. At 42m, she happily looks after 26 guests in 13 high-spec cabins as well asoffering spacious diving and chilling out areas.

AT A GLANCE

  • High-quality, newly-constructed contemporary liveaboard.
  • 4 SUITES across the Upper and Main Deck
  • Choice of spacious dining and relaxation areas.
  • 4 Dive Guides & a seperate 24m Diving Dhoani.

Emperor Serenity - CABINS

  • Upper Deck: 2 suites with a king-size double, 2 cabin with twin-beds.
  • Main Deck: 2 suits with a king-size double and single bed
  • Lower Deck: 5 cabins with a double and a single bed, 2 cabins with a double bed only.
 
NOTE:

If you are a single traveller and would like to guarantee the double bed in a twin cabin, a €35 per week supplement is added to secure this for you, please e-mail: [email protected] to book.

Single Travellers Guarantee: We guarantee same sex cabin share on Emperor Explorer. If we can’t ‘room’ you with someone of the same sex then we will give you a cabin to yourself with no single supplement.

Lower Deck - TWIN

Twin berth cabins are approx. 11-12sqm with port holes, double and single bed, individually controlled air con, flat screen TV (USB connection). Ensuite bathroom with shower, approx. 4-5sqm. 2 cabin towels per guest. Hairdryers available on request.

Lower Deck - DOUBLE

Double bedded cabins are approx. 9sqm, with port holes, individually controlled aircon, flat screen TV (USB connection). Ensuite bathroom with shower, approx. 4.5sqm, 2 cabin towels per guest. Hairdryers available on request.

Main Deck SUITE - TWIN

Main deck suites are approx. 18sqm with windows, a king-sized double and single bed, individually controlled air con, flat screen TV (USB connection). Ensuite bathroom with shower, approx. 5sqm, 2 cabin towels per guest. Hairdryers available on request.

Upper Deck - TWIN

Upper deck cabins are approx. 9sqm with windows, a double and single bed, individually controlled air con, flat screen TV (USB connection). Ensuite bathroom with shower, approx. 4sqm, 2 cabin towels per guest. Hairdryers available on request.

Upper Deck SUITE - DOUBLE

Upper deck suites are approx. 14.5sqm with windows, a king-sized double bed, individually controlled air con, flat screen TV (USB connection). Ensuite bathroom with shower, approx. 5.5sqm, 2 cabin towels per guest. Hairdryers available on request.

BOAT FACILITIES & FEATURES

  • Main Deck: Air-conditioned Lounge; comfy sofas, TV, books, music and movie library, board games, well-stocked bar, dinning area.
  • Upper Deck: Outdoor seating with deck chairs, beanbags and a well-stocked bar.
  • Sun Deck: Deck chairs, Sun beds, Bean Bags.
  • WiFi: Data packages via a code are available to purchase on-board. Please read Terms of Use.

BOAT TECHNICAL & SAFETY DETAILS

EXPECTED LIVING COSTS ONBOARD

Wi-Fi:

US$ 30 per week per person.

C100 (13.2 Litre) tanks:

US$ 87/- per Week per person

(check from [email protected] whether this PRICE is included in your Package-Price)

Can or Draught Beer:

US$ 6/-

Bottle of Wine:

from US$ 35/- to US$ 50/-

Soft Drinks

from US$ 4/- onwards

Juices

from US$ 7/- onwards

Tips for Crews & Guides

Recommendation is 10% of the price paid for your trip, per person.

Diving Insurance

1 Day = US$ 10/- on prorata per person

Tax & Service Charges

16% T-GST (Maldives Government) and 11% Service charge (Boat Charges)

Cash

Euros, British Pounds and US Dollars are accepted on Boat.

Credit Card

Boat accepts only VISA & MASTERCARD, charged in US$, with 4% Surcharge.

DIVING FACILITIES

This is where truly-iconic diving awaits you in the clear blue waters of the Indian Ocean, with 26 atolls calling for you to dive right in. The breath-taking wildlife and blue of the Indian Ocean are just some of the reasons the Maldives is such a popular scuba diving holiday destination.

Diving can range from relaxing drift dives to exhilarating, challenging channels with the possibility of seeing whale sharks, mantas, nurse sharks and a host of other fabulous marine life.

Just imagine yourself on a night dive at Maaya Thila in Ari Atoll, being amongst a feeding frenzy of massive mantas in the world-famous Hanifaru Bay or getting up close to tiger, silky, silver tip and thresher sharks at Fuvamulah Atoll.

And you also get our ‘No Hidden Extras’ GUARANTEE as all marine park fees and port departure fees are included in our price.

  • 4 dive guides
  • Diving Dhoni: 24m tender with 3 staff, fully equipped with compressors, oxygen, comprehensive First Aid and AED and diving towels.
  • Dive equipment rental: Full range on offer, must be arranged before arrival in resort. All divers are required to use a dive computer, SMB and reef hooks for every dive and a torch each for night dives.
  • Dive tanks: Equipped with S80 (11.1 litre) Aluminium tanks as standard and C100 (13.2 litre) tanks on request. FREE Nitrox; up to 32% plus partial pressure system.
  • PADI courses available: Discover Scuba, Advanced Open Water, Adventure Dives and Specialties
  • Medical: Oxygen, comprehensive First Aid and AED available.
  • Camera facilities: Charging stations, air gun, rinse tanks and camera table
  • Onboard Prices
Liveaboard ROUTES: DIVE SITES: Availability:

Best of Maldives

Rasdhoo Atoll, North & South Ari Atolls, Vaavu Atoll, North & South Male' Atolls. (Available all Year)

Deep South

Addu Atoll, Fuvahmulah Island, Huvadhu Atoll (Available DEC - MAR)

Southern Shark Adventure

South Male' Atoll, Vaavu Atoll, Meemu Atoll, Thaa Atoll, Laamu Atoll, Huvadhoo Atoll, Fuvahmulah Atoll. (Available DEC - MAR)

Sharktastic

South Male' Atoll, Vaavu Atoll, South Ari Atoll, Meemu Atoll. (Available JAN - APR)

Northern Highlights

North Male' Atoll, Lhaviyani Atoll, Baa Atoll, Rasdhoo Atoll, North Ari Atoll. (Available JUL - OCT)

Pelagic Magic

North & South Ari Atolls. (On REQUEST JUL - OCT)

Hanifaru & North

Baa Atoll, North Male' Atoll, Lhaviyani Atoll, Raa Atoll. (Available JUL - OCT)

Guidelines For DIVING In The MALDIVES!

DIVER Experience?

To dive with a dive buddy, you must be a PADI Open Water diver or equivalent and be able to complete each dive with your buddy or following your guide. On some dives the recommended depth is below 18m therefore advanced or Deep Diver training is advised. If you are an Open Water Diver when joining our Maldives itineraries, we recommend taking advanced training on board to maximise your enjoyment from the trip.

Many of the dives on the Best of Maldives, Hanifaru and North, Northern Hi-Lights and Pelagic Magic itineraries are suitable for all levels of divers, however, unpredictable and strong currents are to be expected anytime, but especially in periods of new and full moons. Inexperienced and beginner divers may find some dives challenging and may be asked by the Cruise Director to skip dives that are not suitable for their diving experience.

Sharktastic, Southern Shark Adventure and Deep South itineraries are not suitable for beginners and do require diver experience and Deep Diver/Advanced Open Water certification or equivalent. You are expected to be able to dive to a standard that reflects the certification and experience requirements outlined for each itinerary (see below). Experienced divers can dive in a buddy pair unguided.

The maximum depth for diving with Emperor Maldives is 30 metres with an equally qualified buddy. Your maximum diving depth will be dependent on your level of training and experience. It is your responsibility to check what depths your insurance policy covers before arrival. Decompression diving, solo diving and technical diving is strictly prohibited.

To help gain experience and confidence, it is possible to complete the Advanced Open Water Course, Specialty Courses and Adventure Dives (Nitrox, Deep, Drift and Night) whilst on the trip. Click here for the price list.

We are happy to help you with any questions about experience levels, suitability of dive sites and courses, contact: [email protected]   

Skills Review (Very IMPORTANT)

Many agencies recommend a Skills Review if it has been longer than six months since your last dive. Emperor Maldives advises divers to follow the agency recommendation for safety reasons. The Skills Review should be completed prior to your arrival in a Dive-base and signed by an instructor in your diving logbook. Evidence of the date of your last dive should be shown in your log book to avoid problems on check-in. Every diver, regardless of their qualification or experience will be required to participate in a check-dive, normally the first dive and prior to commencing normal diving activities. This dive allows you to orientate yourself in your diving environment and acquaint yourself with your equipment. In the interests of safety, Emperor Maldives reserves the right to restrict diving activities if the instructor has any concerns regarding diver safety.

Diving in the Maldives is often reliant on the current as this is when we get the most ‘action dives’. Currents can vary from really gentle to extremely strong. Many dive sites are transformed by medium-plus currents giving us lots of encounters with sharks, trevallies and schooling reef fish.

The ‘action’ is found at the point when the current is rushing against the thila (pinnacle) or into the mouth of a channel. Divers who need to get to this point may need to descend quickly (sometimes a negative descent) and use leg work to fin against the current. Therefore, a good level of fitness is needed to enjoy the best action.

The moon phase, seasonal changes and incoming or outgoing currents have a big impact on current strength and visibility.

Visibility is changeable and can range between 10 – 30m+ depending on conditions, current and the season.

  • North-east monsoon (approx. November to April) dive sites on the eastern side of an Atoll have good visibility whilst the western side has reduced visibility.
  • South-west monsoon (approx. May to November) it’s the opposite.
  • Mantas migrate with these seasons and will be most frequently be found in areas with reduced visibility.
Best of Maldives, Hanifaru & North, Northern Highlights and Pelagic Magic
  • No minimum number of dives needed but you should be comfortable with drift dives as currents can be strong.
  • Many of the dives on the Best of Maldives, Hanifaru & North, Northern Hi-Lights and Pelagic Magic itineraries are suitable for all levels of divers, however, unpredictable and strong currents are to be expected in certain areas. Inexperienced and beginner divers may find some dives challenging and may be asked by the Cruise Director to skip dives that are not suitable for their diving experience. On some dives the recommended depth is below 18m therefore advanced or Deep Diver training is advised.
  • All diving is from dhonis to give precise entry and exit points. Experienced divers can dive in a buddy pair unguided.
Sharktastic
  • Not suitable for beginner divers. We recommend 30 logged dives as there is a strong current on drift diving.
  • On some dives the recommended depth is below 18m therefore advanced or Deep Diver training is advised.
  • Unpredictable and strong currents are to be expected in certain areas. If the Cruise Director feels some dives are too challenging, you may be asked by the Cruise Director to skip dives.
  • All diving is from dhonis to give precise entry and exit points.
Deep South and Southern Shark Adventure
  • These suit experienced divers with a minimum of 100 dives as there is a strong focus on drift diving.
  • On some dives the recommended depth is below 18m therefore advanced or Deep Diver training is advised.
  • Unpredictable and strong currents are to be expected in certain areas. If the Cruise Director feels some dives are too challenging, you may be asked by the Cruise Director to skip dives.
  • All diving is from dhonis to give precise entry and exit points.
Cruise DEPARTURE Details

OR

Cruise ARRIVAL Details:

OR

Price INCLUDES / Price EXCLUDES

It is important that the guests are fully aware of what’s “Included” and what’s “Excluded” in the “PACKAGE PRICE”. Then only they could plan and enjoy the trip at its fullest.

Therefore we have given all the details below. And if you need any more clarification, please do not hesitate to contact us on any means of communication at anytime -as we work 24 hours/7 days a week. Our e-mail: [email protected]

NOTE:

100% BEST “PRICE & SERVICE” –  IS A GUARANTEE

NO Hidden FEES or EXTRA Charges

_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS – MALDIVES

GENERAL QUESTIONS ABOUT EMPEROR DIVERS MALDIVES

Is my holiday payment protected?

For your financial security, when you pay by credit card or via transfer, all monies are held in a client account until your holiday takes place. Total peace of mind.

No, we do not charge any credit card fees for any of our bookings.

The price you see is the price you pay for your holiday book through www.hellomaldives.com.

Emperor Maldives does accept payment by Visa and MasterCard on board the liveaboards. Also, please note that all prices on liveaboard will be in US Dollars and they charge a 4% surcharge.

Please check with your bank for any international charges and exchange rates.

All guests are required to sign a self-declaration medical on check in and before any activity such as, but not limited to, diving, snorkelling, swimming, etc. A sample can be found here (Medical Form).

If you are taking part in a PADI course, you are required to a sign a diver medical (PADI Medical Form) prior to starting the course.

In both cases, if you have, or think you have, any of the medical conditions listed you will need signed clearance from a doctor valid within 12 months of your planned liveaboard or diving holiday. Where doctor’s clearance is needed, we ask you to arrange this before arrival where possible and to bring it with you to avoid any delays, additional costs or even missing the trip.

For students under the age of 18, all paperwork needs to be signed by a parent or guardian.

“Emperor Divers” and “Hello Maldives Pvt. Ltd.,” will not be responsible for any financial loss incurred by issues beyond our control such as, but not limited to, weather, ‘Act of God’ or changes made by the local authorities. It is a condition of your booking with “Emperor Divers” and “Hello Maldives Pvt. Ltd.,” that you purchase comprehensive dive and travel insurance cover specific to your booking and to bring proof of this with you to show the guides when you check in.

You are responsible to check that these include:

  1. Dive Injury Insurance: covering all risks, costs and expenses likely to be incurred as a result of a diving injury, including but not limited to re-compression chamber treats, air evacuation, and loss or damage to possessions. This insurance should cover all scuba diving or water sports activities that you are likely to undertake during your trip, and
  2. Medical Evacuation Insurance: covering all risks, costs and expenses likely to arise from a diving or non-diving injury requiring your evacuation to a place of specialist care, including but not limited to low altitude air evacuation; specialist treatment and direct; and indirect losses; and
  3. Comprehensive Travel Insurance: valid at the time of booking to cover any pre-departure cancellations should you have to cancel your trip for an insured reason such as illness or serious accident, any changes or cancellation to your travel plans, loss or damage to your luggage and contents.

You must be satisfied that your insurance fully covers all your personal requirements including pre-existing medical conditions, cancellation charges, medical expenses and repatriation in the event of accident or illness, diving injuries and medical evacuation.

Should diving insurance not be obtained prior to your departure, it can be arranged on arrival with Indepths Insurance (Divemaster UK). Pricing information can be found on the relevant product price list, or contact us at [email protected] 

If you choose to travel without adequate insurance cover, “Emperor Divers” and “Hello Maldives Pvt. Ltd.,” will not be liable for any losses howsoever arising, in respect of which insurance cover would otherwise have been available.

The Maldives lie in the monsoon belt of the Indian Ocean and has quite a varied weather pattern. The days are hot and humid throughout the year with temperatures ranging from 25-30°C degrees and humidity at 60-80%.

There are two seasons: November to April; a dry northeast monsoon (Iruvai) and May to November; a wet southwest monsoon (Hulhagu). Whilst there is all year round sunshine across both seasons, there is a big difference in rainfall between the two.

Between May and November, the prevailing winds are south-westerly. The average rainfall is 215mm with 208 hours of sunshine a month.

Around mid-December the winds turn to the northeast and bring a much drier climate. Rainfall averages 75mm a month with average monthly sunshine at 256 hours.

Information regarding diving conditions, itineraries and advice regarding diver experience can be found on the above “DIVING” Tab (Maldives Diving Guidelines).

The rich marine life teems around the coral reefs where you will find schools of fish, sharks, mantas and rays with regular appearances by playful dolphins.

Thanks to Maldives 26 atolls, the diving is diverse with channel dives attracting marine life from the deep to fast drift diving. Whale sharks and grey reef sharks are common sights or see the manta rays coming in to be cleaned.

Water temperatures usually stay between 27 – 30°C although thermoclines can sometimes be found at depths below 20 metres.

A Lycra 3mm wetsuit is fine in tropical waters but some divers prefer a 5mm suit if doing more than one dive a day. It’s really how you prefer to dive but we’re happy to advise.

All tanks are fitted with 5/8’s DIN valves. We strongly advise divers with M26 regulators to note that when travelling outside Europe, tanks with M26 valves or adapters to fit M26 regulators to 5/8’s DIN tanks may not be available.

These adapters cannot be purchased in countries in Africa, Asia, etc and we have limited stocks available for rent. Please remember to either bring your own adapter with you or check with us regarding availability at the time of booking.

Sorry, this service is currently not available onboard. Though we can get you cameras from other vendors. Please contact us: [email protected]

Most diver training agencies recommend 24 hours before flying, therefore for your safety all Divers requires to have 24 hours clearance before flying.

As qualified divers you are expected to be able to dive to a standard as per the certification and experience requirements outlined. You are responsible for your own and your buddy’s safety during the dive and to plan your dive and dive your plan by using a personal dive computer. You must begin, execute and end the dive with your dive buddy.

Should you be a single diver, a buddy will be allocated onboard.

If you are a PADI or SSI diver, don’t worry, we can check their computer database online.

Yes, providing you prove you’re a diver. The liveaboard may require you to do a check dive or scuba review before your arrival or on your first day depending on your level, how many dives you think you have and when your last dive was.

Depends what level you are, how many dives you’ve got and when you last dived.

For safety reasons, Emperor advises divers to follow their agency recommendation, many agencies recommend a Scuba Review if it has been longer than six months since your last dive.

If you are looking to join a liveaboard you will need to arrange this beforehand or at home before joining your liveaboard in the Maldives.

All our guests, regardless of their qualification or experience will participate in a check dive on their first dive at a local/sheltered dive site and the liveaboard experienced guides will give advice and feedback to ensure you get the very best experience from your trip.

The maximum depth for diving in the Maldives is 30 metres with an equally qualified buddy; please email: [email protected] for more details. Your maximum diving depth will be dependent on your level of training and experience.

It is your responsibility to check what depths your insurance policy covers you for before your arrival.

Generally, 60 minutes; this is so we can account for all divers.

Emperor is extremely environmentally aware and asks that you refrain from taking knives or gloves when you dive. Do not touch, ride, feed, catch or harass anything you find underwater.

Do not come back on the boat with less than 30 bar in your tank, ascend or descend very close to the reef or ascend or descend down the mooring line.

No solo diving, no decompression diving, use good buoyancy control when using cameras. And that means we all have a great dive.

FAQ's About EMPEROR Liveaboard

What time is Check-In / Check-Out from the Liveaboard?

Check in is from 13:00 hours.

Please contact us: [email protected] (phone: 00 960 7783665) to discuss options if your flight is either very early or later than the advised Emperor transfer times.

Check out is at 07:00 and guests will be in the airport by 07:30.

For guests continuing their holiday in the Maldives at a resort, hotel or another liveaboard, we can arrange your on-going transfers. The liveaboard may not be able to arrange direct transfers from the liveaboard to resorts.

Day use rooms are available with hotel/guest houses on Male’ &  Hulhumale, you may contact us [email protected] (phone: 00 960 7783665) to arrange this on request. 

Emperor-arranged transfers depart from the airport to the boat at 12:00 and 16:00 and are free of charge.

Guests who use the 12:00 transfer accept that the boat will not be fully cleaned or ready. A light sandwich-style snack will be provided for lunch.

If you are already in the Maldives before joining your liveaboard, we will take you to Male (Velaana) International Airport for the 16:00 Emperor transfer.

IF your hotel is unable to, then “Hello Maldives Holidays” will organize your transfer from the hotel back to the airport.

It is highly recommended that travellers arrive 120 minutes before departure for domestic flights.

It is also recommended to book either the earliest possible flight to the departure city of the boat or to arrive a day before boarding in case of delays or schedule flight changes.

You should check any baggage limitations and weight allowances with the domestic airline at the time of booking to avoid excess charges or your bag being uplifted to a later flight.

Emperor Divers Maldives cannot be held responsible or hold the boat’s departure as a result of delays or cancellations of any domestic flights.

“Hello Maldives Holidays” can arrange all your Domestic Flights. Thus you can communicate on : [email protected] 

Emperor offer 2-3 dives per day on all Emperor boats except Emperor Explorer. Emperor Explorer offers 3-4 dives per day. There is no diving on the first and last day. 

1 night dive is available per trip, however, no night dives are available on any southern itinerary. 

You must ensure that you leave a minimum of 24 hours between your last dive and your flight departure (or going to altitude).

Please see our “Maldives Diving Guidelines” under above Diving-tab.

All diving is made from dhonis to give precise entry and exit points and unpredictable and strong currents are to be expected anytime, but especially in periods of new and full moons. Therefore, you should be comfortable with drift diving.

Emperor Maldives advises that all guests must be Open Water Diver or equivalent. On some dives the recommended depth is below 18m, therefore advanced or Deep Diver training is advised.

Please check each itinerary regarding any minimum number of dives required and please go to our “Dive-tab” for further information.

All itineraries and dive sites are subject to various unpredictable changes including weather conditions and changes in Maldivian Government approval. Whilst Emperor Maldives makes every effort, they may not be able to guarantee diving at specific sites.

In adverse weather conditions the guides and captain of the boat will have the final decision about which dive sites to visit to ensure that the safety of guests, staff and boats is not compromised in any way.

If in the unfortunate event that dives are missed, or dive sites are not reached due to weather conditions or other unforeseeable changes, Emperor Maldives will not offer a refund or compensation.

Emperor Maldives offer a range of PADI courses including; Discover Scuba Diving onboard Explorer and Serenity, Advanced Open Water on all boats plus a range of specialty courses to build on your diving experience, please ask for more details.

Courses are subject to availability and itinerary and do not include course materials (where required) and certification fee. If arranged on board a 16% sales tax will be added. Prices can be found here

For students under the age of 18, course paperwork needs to be signed by a parent or guardian.

They vary from boat to boat, please see the relevant information for each boat and that will tell you the maximum number.

They vary from boat to boat, please see the relevant information for each boat and that will tell you the average number.

Mostly English, German and Spanish, however other languages are subject to availability and on request.

The dhoni has ample storage space for your equipment and there is a spares box on board. Diving towels are also available aboard the diving dhoni.

The average water temperature is 29°C and we recommend a 3mm shortie or wetsuit.

Equipment is available for rent from Emperor Maldives and we ask that you pre-book your equipment before you arrive to liveaboard to avoid disappointment. We need to know normal sizes, height, weight and shoe sizes to prepare the correctly sized equipment for you.

All divers are required to use a dive computer and SMB and carry reef hooks for every dive and a torch each for night dives throughout their safari experience for safety reasons. Please bring your own or ask us what is available on board.

Inexperienced and beginner divers may find some dives challenging and may be asked by the Cruise Director to skip dives that are not suitable for their diving experience.

Information regarding diving conditions, itineraries and advice regarding diver experience can be found on “Maldives Diving Guideline” on above “Diving-tab”.

Please chat to us using the live chat on our website or email us at [email protected] with any questions or concerns you may have and we will be happy to help and advise you.

Snorkelling can be taken from the dhoni when an Instructor/Guide is on board to observe or unless the snorkeller is accompanied in the water by a certified diver. We ask all snorkellers to wear a floatation aid at all times.

Whilst every effort will be made for non-diving guests wishing to snorkel or guests wanting to try scuba diving, some itineraries or dive locations may not be suitable for safety reasons. Both snorkellers and non-divers will be required to complete a liability form at the time of check in.

Children aged 15 years or younger must be supervised by a parent or designated responsible adult at all times whilst on board an Emperor Maldives’ liveaboard. Emperor Maldives cannot provide a legal chaperone service.

Children pricing policy:

  • 0-2 years old – free of charge, share cabin, no separate bed provided
  • 3-9 years old – 50% discount, share cabin, no separate bed provided (share cabin, separate bed provided for 8 – 9 years old only for full charters)
  • 10+ years old – full rate

The meals on board are usually buffet style with a variety of local and International dishes to suit everyone.

Local food is traditionally a bit spicy, fish is available on board, mostly frozen with a few fresh catches along the way.

For any special dietary requests, such as vegetarian or any allergies, please inform us prior to arrival.

Emperor source items locally, therefore items such as, but not limited to, wholemeal pastas or flour, gluten free products or soya substitutes are not typically available.

All the liveaboards are equipped with Wi-Fi and internet is available when a mobile signal is present, usually only nearby or in port. This service is for limited internet browsing and to connect with communication applications. Upload/download is very limited; therefore, Emperor ask guests to refrain from transferring large files.

Signal strength can vary, which can result in intermittent and/or slow connections, depending on the local mobile provider.

If you are a high-level internet user, we advise that you purchase a local data SIM at Male airport upon arrival.

Importing of alcoholic beverages is prohibited under Maldivian law and will be confiscated at Customs on arrival and returned to you at departure; this can be quite a time-consuming process.

Alcohol is available to purchase on board; a beer is around 5 USD, spirits between 6-10 USD and a bottle of wine between 30-50 USD.

General MALDIVES Questions?

Passport & VISA's

You must have a passport valid for at least six more months after arrival.

30-day tourist visas are issued on arrival at the immigration desk at Maldives International airport for all nationalities and are free of charge.

All visitors must be in possession of a return/onward flight ticket. We recommend that you have your “Hello Maldives Holidays” Voucher to hand just in case you are asked to present it to airport security upon arrival as proof of where you are staying.

If you have to wait for a transfer on arrival, or for a connecting domestic flight, the airport is reasonably comfortable and has a shop for local SIM cards, a post office, money changer and a few coffee shops / restaurants including Thai Express, Burger King and New Noodle.

Gan International Airport is an important transportation hub for the southern atolls of the Maldives with very limited facilities.

The Maldives offers different types of diving areas, all characterized by medium to strong currents making them rich in marine life. Here’s a quick overview of the definitions:

Thila

An underwater island that can be both so small that you can dive all around it or so large that you’ll manage to see only one side during a dive. A Thila within a Kandu is usually the diving area where the strongest current is but also the ones that have the most interesting sea life.

Kandu

A channel or pass around the border of the atoll where, when the tides change, the water flows in and out of the atoll. Perfect places for drift dives and where you can see big pelagics like sharks, tuna and mantas.

Lagoon

Each island in the Maldives has its own lagoon, usually not very deep. It can reach around 20 metres and is mostly sandy. These places are protected from the current so the ideal spot for scuba diving courses and snorkelling but not as interesting from a marine life point of view.

Requirements vary from country to country so do check with your doctor regarding relevant requirements. Do tell your doctor that you will be diving as some medication is not recommended for scuba divers.

All environmental, bed taxes and port fees are included in the price of your liveaboard package. Any equipment rental, special tank requests and on board purchases paid locally will be subject to 16% sales tax.

5 hours ahead of GMT. Daylight savings time is not observed in the Maldives.

The Maldivian currency is the Rufiyaa (Rf) and is closely linked to the US Dollar. 1 US Dollar = approximately 16 Rufiyaa.

Most of the resort islands and local tourist shops accept US Dollars; it’s not necessary to exchange any money into Rufiyaa.

All the resorts, hotels, liveaboards and most of the souvenir shops accept major credit cards, which include American Express, Visa card, MasterCard and JCB card. Almost all items are priced in US Dollars. There is a local bank branch at the International airport’s arrival terminal. They can exchange your currency to US Dollars.

Note: Travellers’ Cheques are NOT accepted at any bank or at any resort island in the Maldives.

We accept payment in cash; Euros and USD, Visa and MasterCard only. Credit cards are charged in USD plus a 4% surcharge.

Do make sure you inform your credit card provider that you are coming to the Maldives as we have had credit card companies block transactions and then phone calls need to be made to unblock the cards.

UK 3 pin electrical sockets using 220 volts AC 50Hz.

HELLO MALDIVES PVT. LTD.,

HOTEL OCTAVE, MA. JANBUMAA, KAAMINEEMAGU, MALE’, REPUBLIC OF MALDIVES.

GROUND HANDLING OPERATIONS

TRAVEL DEPARTMENT (Office/Admin)

Emperor EXPLORER - TOUR - starts: 28 JANUARY 2024

Tour START: Timeline: Tour END: Trip DETAILS: Cabin Details: Price: Select:

28 JAN 2024

07 Nights

04 FEB 2024

Trip DETAILS

Lower Deck - TWIN

US$ 2,822

28 JAN 2024

07 Nights

04 FEB 2024

Trip DETAILS

Lower Deck - DOUBLE (SOLE Use)

US$ 4,010

28 JAN 2024

07 Nights

04 FEB 2024

Trip DETAILS Main Deck SUITE - TWIN

US$ 0,000

BOOKED

28 JAN 2024

07 Nights

04 FEB 2024

Trip DETAILS

Upper Deck - TWIN

US$ 3,000

28 JAN 2024

07 Nights

04 FEB 2024

Trip DETAILS

Upper Deck SUITE - DOUBLE

US$ 3,168

  • The prices are US$ per person -whole trip – with Diving, Guide, Tanks & Weights – & on Full-Board.
  • Please Go-To “Emperor EXPLORER-page” & CLICK to “Included/Excluded” – TAB for Full-Details.  

Emperor EXPLORER - Trip DETAILS - 28 JANUARY 2024

Sharktastic Itinerary Highlights:
  • Dive the best and most famous dive sites across Male and Ari Atoll.
  • Dive channels, pinnacles, action-packed night dive with nurse sharks, get up close at the cleaning stations without disturbing the locals!
  • Expect to see sharks, manta, reef fish, turtles, morays, eagle rays, abundant macro life. Possible hammerheads and whale sharks.
  • We don’t follow an exact itinerary; flexibility is key irrespective of the year you visit, this underwater world is yours (and ours) for the exploring

Emperor EXPLORER - TOUR - starts: 04 FEBRUARY 2024

Tour START: Timeline: Tour END: Trip DETAILS: Cabin Details: Price: Select:

04 FEB 2024

07 Nights

11 FEB 2024

Trip DETAILS

Lower Deck - TWIN

US$ 3,135

04 FEB 2024

07 Nights

11 FEB 2024

Trip DETAILS Lower Deck - DOUBLE

US$ 0,000

BOOKED

04 FEB 2024

07 Nights

11 FEB 2024

Trip DETAILS Main Deck SUITE - TWIN

US$ 0,000

BOOKED

04 FEB 2024

07 Nights

11 FEB 2024

Trip DETAILS Upper Deck - TWIN

US$ 0,000

BOOKED

04 FEB 2024

07 Nights

11 FEB 2024

Trip DETAILS Upper Deck SUITE - DOUBLE

US$ 0,000

BOOKED

  • The prices are US$ per person -whole trip – with Diving, Guide, Tanks & Weights – & on Full-Board.
  • Please Go-To “Emperor EXPLORER-page” & CLICK to “Included/Excluded” – TAB for Full-Details.  

Trip DETAILS - 04FEB2024

Sharktastic Itinerary Highlights:
  • Dive the best and most famous dive sites across Male and Ari Atoll.
  • Dive channels, pinnacles, action-packed night dive with nurse sharks, get up close at the cleaning stations without disturbing the locals!
  • Expect to see sharks, manta, reef fish, turtles, morays, eagle rays, abundant macro life. Possible hammerheads and whale sharks.
  • We don’t follow an exact itinerary; flexibility is key irrespective of the year you visit, this underwater world is yours (and ours) for the exploring

Emperor EXPLORER - TOUR - starts: 11 FEBRUARY 2024

Tour START: Timeline: Tour END: Trip DETAILS: Cabin Details: Price: Select:

11 FEB 2024

07 Nights

18 FEB 2024

Trip DETAILS Lower Deck - TWIN

US$ 0,000

BOOKED

11 FEB 2024

07 Nights

18 FEB 2024

Trip DETAILS

Lower Deck - DOUBLE

US$ 2,970

11 FEB 2024

07 Nights

18 FEB 2024

Trip DETAILS

Main Deck SUITE - TWIN

US$ 3,465

11 FEB 2024

07 Nights

18 FEB 2024

Trip DETAILS Upper Deck - TWIN

US$ 0,000

BOOKED

11 FEB 2024

07 Nights

18 FEB 2024

Trip DETAILS

Upper Deck SUITE - DOUBLE

US$ 3,520

  • The prices are US$ per person -whole trip – with Diving, Guide, Tanks & Weights – & on Full-Board.
  • Please Go-To “Emperor EXPLORER-page” & CLICK to “Included/Excluded” – TAB for Full-Details.  

Trip DETAILS - 11FEB2024

Sharktastic Itinerary Highlights:
  • Dive the best and most famous dive sites across Male and Ari Atoll.
  • Dive channels, pinnacles, action-packed night dive with nurse sharks, get up close at the cleaning stations without disturbing the locals!
  • Expect to see sharks, manta, reef fish, turtles, morays, eagle rays, abundant macro life. Possible hammerheads and whale sharks.
  • We don’t follow an exact itinerary; flexibility is key irrespective of the year you visit, this underwater world is yours (and ours) for the exploring

Emperor EXPLORER - TOUR - starts: 18 FEBRUARY 2024

Tour START: Timeline: Tour END: Trip DETAILS: Cabin Details: Price: Select:

18 FEB 2024

14 Nights

03 MAR 2024

Trip DETAILS

Lower Deck - TWIN

US$ 5,610

18 FEB 2024

14 Nights

03 MAR 2024

Trip DETAILS Lower Deck - DOUBLE

US$ 0,000

BOOKED

18 FEB 2024

14 Nights

03 MAR 2024

Trip DETAILS Main Deck SUITE - TWIN

US$ 0,000

BOOKED

18 FEB 2024

14 Nights

03 MAR 2024

Trip DETAILS Upper Deck - TWIN

US$ 0,000

BOOKED

18 FEB 2024

14 Nights

03 MAR 2024

Trip DETAILS Upper Deck SUITE - DOUBLE

US$ 0,000

BOOKED

  • The prices are US$ per person -whole trip – with Diving, Guide, Tanks & Weights – & on Full-Board.
  • Please Go-To “Emperor EXPLORER-page” & CLICK to “Included/Excluded” – TAB for Full-Details.  

This tour STARTS from “Male’ (Velaana In’tl Airport)” and finishes to GAN.

If your International AIRFARE is upto : Male’ (Velaana Int’l Airport), please e-mail: [email protected] – we will get you DOMESTIC FLIGHT (Ticket – GAN/MLE), to catch your Int’l Flight. And we will put every effort to meet your requirements.

Trip DETAILS - 18FEB2024

Southern Shark Adventure Itinerary Highlights:
  • 14 nights to spend more time and visit more dive sites.
  • Fuvahmulah: Tiger sharks, oceanic manta and thresher sharks. Oceanic Island with incredible visibility.
  • Huvadhu: Whale sharks at night, silver tips, grey reef sharks and many, many more.
  • Addu Atoll: WWII wreck HMS British Loyalty, majestic manta cleaning stations and tiger sharks.
  • Laamu Atoll: Beautiful fish filled channels with great shark encounters. Only on the Male to Addu trips.
  • Thaa atoll: Grey reef & white tip reef sharks plus the chance of Whale sharks at night
  • Meemu Atoll: Enchanting channels with pelagic action, sharks, Eagle rays and beautiful soft coral. Manta cleaning station
  • Vaavu Atoll: A sunset/night dive at Alimatha, Vaavu atoll is a must to have a memorable experience with the resident nurse shark
  • South Male Atoll: Grey reef sharks and eagle rays at the famous Kandooma thila, a highlight on any trip
  • This itinerary has a lot of channel dives, so it is best suited to more advanced divers.

Emperor EXPLORER - TOUR - starts: 03 MARCH 2024 (ADDU Atoll -zone)

Tour START: Timeline: Tour END: Trip DETAILS: Cabin Details: Price: Select:

03 MAR 2024

07 Nights

10 MAR 2024

Trip DETAILS

Lower Deck - TWIN

US$ 3,113

03 MAR 2024

07 Nights

10 MAR 2024

Trip DETAILS Lower Deck - DOUBLE

US$ 0,000

BOOKED

03 MAR 2024

07 Nights

10 MAR 2024

Trip DETAILS Main Deck SUITE - TWIN

US$ 0,000

BOOKED

03 MAR 2024

07 Nights

10 MAR 2024

Trip DETAILS Upper Deck - TWIN

US$ 0,000

BOOKED

03 MAR 2024

07 Nights

10 MAR 2024

Trip DETAILS Upper Deck SUITE - DOUBLE

US$ 0,000

BOOKED

  • This Trip is in “ADDU Atoll – zone”
  • The prices are US$ per person -whole trip – with Diving, Guide, Tanks & Weights – & on Full-Board.
  • Please Go-To “Emperor EXPLORER-page” & CLICK to “Included/Excluded” – TAB for Full-Details.  

Trip DETAILS - 03MAR2024

Deep South Itinerary Highlights:
  • Fuvamulah: Tiger sharks, oceanic manta and thresher sharks. Oceanic Island with incredible visibility.
  • Huvadhu: Whale sharks at night, silver tips, grey reef sharks and many, many more.
  • Addu Atoll: WWII wreck HMS British Loyalty, majestic manta cleaning stations and tiger sharks.
  • This itinerary has a lot of channel dives, so it is best suited to more advanced divers.

Emperor EXPLORER - TOUR - starts: 17 MARCH 2024 (Addu Atoll to Male')

Tour START: Timeline: Tour END: Trip DETAILS: Cabin Details: Price: Select:

17 MAR 2024

14 Nights

31 MAR 2024

Trip DETAILS

Lower Deck - TWIN

US$ 5,610

17 MAR 2024

14 Nights

31 MAR 2024

Trip DETAILS Lower Deck - DOUBLE

US$ 0,000

BOOKED

17 MAR 2024

14 Nights

31 MAR 2024

Trip DETAILS Main Deck SUITE - TWIN

US$ 0,000

BOOKED

17 MAR 2024

14 Nights

31 MAR 2024

Trip DETAILS

Upper Deck - TWIN

US$ 5,951

17 MAR 2024

14 Nights

31 MAR 2024

Trip DETAILS

Upper Deck SUITE - DOUBLE

US$ 6,270

  • The prices are US$ per person -whole trip – with Diving, Guide, Tanks & Weights – & on Full-Board.
  • Please Go-To “Emperor EXPLORER-page” & CLICK to “Included/Excluded” – TAB for Full-Details.  

This tour STARTS from “ADDU Atoll (GAN In’tl Airport)” and finishes to Male’.

If your International AIRFARE is upto : Male’ (Velaana Int’l Airport), please e-mail: [email protected] – we will get you DOMESTIC FLIGHT (Ticket – MLE/GAN), to catch your Int’l Flight. And we will put every effort to meet your requirements.

Trip DETAILS - 17MARCH2024

Southern Shark Adventure Itinerary Highlights:
  • 14 nights to spend more time and visit more dive sites.
  • Fuvahmulah: Tiger sharks, oceanic manta and thresher sharks. Oceanic Island with incredible visibility.
  • Huvadhu: Whale sharks at night, silver tips, grey reef sharks and many, many more.
  • Addu Atoll: WWII wreck HMS British Loyalty, majestic manta cleaning stations and tiger sharks.
  • Laamu Atoll: Beautiful fish filled channels with great shark encounters. Only on the Male to Addu trips.
  • Thaa atoll: Grey reef & white tip reef sharks plus the chance of Whale sharks at night
  • Meemu Atoll: Enchanting channels with pelagic action, sharks, Eagle rays and beautiful soft coral. Manta cleaning station
  • Vaavu Atoll: A sunset/night dive at Alimatha, Vaavu atoll is a must to have a memorable experience with the resident nurse shark
  • South Male Atoll: Grey reef sharks and eagle rays at the famous Kandooma thila, a highlight on any trip
  • This itinerary has a lot of channel dives, so it is best suited to more advanced divers.

Emperor EXPLORER - TOUR - starts: 31 MARCH 2024

Tour START: Timeline: Tour END: Trip DETAILS: Cabin Details: Price: Select:

31 MAR 2024

07 Nights

07 APR 2024

Trip DETAILS

Lower Deck - TWIN

US$ 3,135

31 MAR 2024

07 Nights

07 APR 2024

Trip DETAILS Lower Deck - DOUBLE

US$ 0,000

BOOKED

31 MAR 2024

07 Nights

07 APR 2024

Trip DETAILS Main Deck SUITE - TWIN

US$ 0,000

BOOKED

31 MAR 2024

07 Nights

07 APR 2024

Trip DETAILS Upper Deck - TWIN

US$ 0,000

BOOKED

31 MAR 2024

07 Nights

07 APR 2024

Trip DETAILS Upper Deck SUITE - DOUBLE

US$ 0,000

BOOKED

  • The prices are US$ per person -whole trip – with Diving, Guide, Tanks & Weights – & on Full-Board.
  • Please Go-To “Emperor EXPLORER-page” & CLICK to “Included/Excluded” – TAB for Full-Details.  

Trip DETAILS - 31MARCH2024