Top Liveaboards in the Maldives: A Comprehensive Guide to the Best DiveSurf Safaris

The Maldives, renowned for its crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and abundant marine life, offers an unparalleled diving experience. One of the best ways to explore the underwater wonders of this archipelago is by embarking on a liveaboard. Liveaboards in the Maldives provide divers with the opportunity to access remote dive sites, away from the crowds, while enjoying the comforts of a floating hotel. Below is a comprehensive list of liveaboards operating in the Maldives, each offering a unique experience.

1. Adora

Description: Adora offers luxurious accommodations with spacious cabins and modern amenities, making it a top choice for divers seeking comfort and quality service. Cabins: 11 cabins, 29 beds.

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2. Maldives Master

Description:The Maldives is set to welcome a stunning new addition to its waters — a 42-meter fiberglass liveaboard designed to redefine the diving experience.

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3. White Pearl Liveaboard

Description: Step aboard a 56.4-meter luxury yacht that perfectly blends elegance, comfort, and adventure. Enjoy world-class amenities, including a spacious sun deck, stylish dining area, and a dedicated camera room for photography enthusiasts. Divers will love the specialized dive facilities, while others can unwind with kayaking and paddleboarding. Each cabin is thoughtfully designed with modern comforts for a relaxing stay, and the top-deck Jacuzzi offers the ultimate spot to soak in breathtaking panoramic views.

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4. Horizon 3 Liveaboard

Description: Horizon 3 invites you to embark on an unforgettable journey through the Maldives, exploring both the popular Central Atolls and the untouched beauty of the Northern Atolls. Onboard, comfort meets adventure with a spacious sun deck, cozy loungers, and a relaxing jacuzzi. Enhance your experience with cultural excursions to uninhabited islands and end your day with a delightful beach barbecue under the stars.

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5. Emperor Virgo

Description: This 35-meter yacht offers a boutique liveaboard experience in the Maldives, accommodating up to 18 guests. Its modern design, featuring light wood interiors, creates a serene and spacious atmosphere. Smaller than many Maldives liveaboards, it emphasizes personalized service, with small dive groups and a 1:6 guide-to-diver ratio. Divers benefit from this focused attention, enjoying highly detailed briefings and a tailored underwater experience.

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6. Spirit of Maldives

Description: Spirit of Maldives is a brand-new luxury liveaboard designed to deliver unparalleled diving experiences across the Maldives’ breathtaking atolls. Perfect for divers seeking extraordinary underwater adventures, the vessel blends style, comfort, and safety. Its carefully crafted itineraries take guests to the most remote and tranquil spots, from the Central Atolls and Deep South to the rarely visited Northern Atolls.

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7. Emperor Explorer Liveaboard

Description: Emperor Explorer is a 42-meter modern liveaboard crafted for comfort and exceptional service in the Maldives. Featuring a wooden hull and 13 luxurious cabins accommodating up to 26 guests, it offers a variety of itineraries across the atolls. From the Northern Highlights to the Best of Maldives, Emperor Explorer caters to divers chasing both thrilling pelagic encounters and vibrant reef biodiversity.

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8. Maldives Blue Force 3, Liveaboard

Description: This liveaboard impresses with its spacious layout and stable hull, promising a smooth and comfortable voyage. Guests can savor exquisite cuisine prepared by the onboard chef, while Nitrox is available for enhanced diving adventures. Explore the Central and Southern Atolls of the Maldives for a truly unforgettable diving holiday.

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9. Carpe Vita 

Description: Carpe Vita is a 38-meter liveaboard operated by Carpe Diem Maldives Cruises, offering diving and surfing adventures across the Maldives’ top dive sites. Accommodating up to 20 guests, the yacht features modern interiors, dedicated dive facilities, and a skilled crew adept at handling diverse sea conditions. Renowned for its reliability, Carpe Vita consistently delivers high-quality service and amenities on every voyage.

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10. Maldives Blue Force One

Description: Blue Fore blends ultimate relaxation with thrilling diving adventures. Guests can unwind in two outdoor jacuzzis, sunbathe on spacious solariums with loungers, or enjoy drinks at the outdoor bar. Divers have access to Nitrox, while non-divers can enjoy kayaking, paddleboarding, and a Jobe banana ride. Cruise the Central Atolls of the Maldives with opportunities to encounter whale sharks and giant manta rays.

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11. Carpe Novo Liveaboard

Description: Carpe Nova is designed for a range of marine adventures, including diving, surfing, and fishing. Its itineraries span from the classic Central Atolls to the untouched Deep South and the remote Far North, with three dives daily to fully immerse guests in the Maldives’ spectacular underwater world.

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12. Carpe Diem Liveaboard

Description: Carpe Diem invites you to discover the Maldives’ vibrant Central Atolls, the adventurous South, and the pristine Deep South Atolls. With an experienced crew leading you to the top dive sites and Nitrox included, this liveaboard is perfect for diving, surfing, and fishing enthusiasts. Relax and take in the breathtaking views from the sun deck in a tranquil setting.

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13. Scubaspa Ying

Description: Scubaspa Yin, the flagship of the Scubaspa Maldives fleet, redefines luxury by combining world-class diving with indulgent onboard spa services. Mirroring the design and amenities of its sister ship, Scubaspa Yang, it also allows seamless bookings across both vessels for an unparalleled Maldivian experience.

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14. Scubaspa Yang

Description: Scubaspa Yang shines in the Scubaspa Maldives fleet, offering a unique blend of diving and spa amenities for a luxurious alternative to traditional liveaboards. Alongside its sister ship, Scubaspa Yin, it delivers an equally opulent experience, with the added flexibility to book seamlessly between the two vessels.

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15. Maldives Aggressor II

Description: As a distinguished member of the Aggressor Fleet, this liveaboard delivers unforgettable diving experiences in the Maldives, a premier destination for underwater enthusiasts. Equipped with specialized facilities for underwater photographers, it offers 7- and 10-night cruises across varied itineraries. With its crystal-clear waters, rich marine life, and vibrant coral reefs, the Maldives provides an ideal setting for an exceptional liveaboard diving adventure.

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16. Emperor Serenity

Description: Emperor Serenity is a newly upgraded 40-meter Maldives liveaboard, combining modern finishes with the bright, welcoming ambiance of its award-winning predecessor. Accommodating up to 26 guests, it features 13 ensuite cabins across the lower, main, and upper decks. Designed for both leisure and diving cruises, Emperor Serenity strikes the perfect balance between comfort and diving convenience throughout the Maldives.

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17. Princess Dhonkamana

Description: Relax in comfortable outdoor lounging areas designed for ultimate comfort, while spacious cabins cater to families for a pleasant stay. Nitrox is available onboard to enhance your diving adventures. Explore the Central Atolls, a true diver’s paradise, aboard this well-equipped liveaboard.

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18. Princess Haleema

Description: Explore the classic Central Atolls of the Maldives aboard a spacious liveaboard equipped with Nitrox. With family-friendly cabins featuring double and single beds, this vessel is perfect for divers seeking a seamless blend of comfort and adventure.

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19. Emperor Leo

Description: Emperor Leo is a five-star motor yacht delivering exceptional diving experiences across the Central and Southern Atolls of the Maldives. Renowned for its meticulous attention to detail, this liveaboard offers a variety of dive options, including guided dives, rebreather diving, and wreck exploration.

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20. Conte Max

Description: This liveaboard offers 8 well-appointed cabins, from a spacious suite to twin and triple options, each featuring a shower and air conditioning. Designed to showcase the natural beauty of the Maldives, every deck includes outdoor spaces for admiring the Indian Ocean.

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21. Emperor Voyager

Description: Emperor Voyager, originally built in 2004 and fully refurbished in 2014, offers divers a comfortable and well-appointed experience exploring the Maldives. Measuring 98 feet (30 m) long and 30 feet (9 m) wide, it accommodates up to 20 guests. Its itineraries visit some of the Maldives’ most renowned dive sites, including North Male, South Male, and Ari Atoll, home to abundant marine life such as mantas, whale sharks, and hammerheads.

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22. Theia

Description: Theia offers a perfect blend of affordable pricing and exceptional comfort, featuring amenities like Nitrox, WiFi, and inclusive taxes. Guests can relax in the panoramic lounge or enjoy the sky bar while cruising the Maldives’ famous Central Atolls, renowned for its abundant manta cleaning stations.

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23. Duke of York

Description: Scheduled classic trips explore the Central Atolls of the Maldives, with Nitrox included at no extra cost. Guests can enjoy island hopping, along with diving, fishing, and other marine activities, all included in the package.

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24. Blue (Fun Azul II)

Description: Embark on a diving adventure in the Maldives aboard a newly built, modern liveaboard, exploring the vibrant sites of the Central and Deep South Atolls. With Nitrox available, dive alongside grey reef sharks, whitetip sharks, and schools of eagle rays for an unforgettable underwater experience.

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25. EcoPro Mariana

Description: Set sail on the newest vessel from an experienced team of liveaboard operators, ideal for full charters, group trips, and family vacations. Designed for both experienced divers and beginners, this liveaboard ensures an unforgettable underwater adventure.

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26. EcoPro Seascape

Description: Eco Pro Seascape sets a new standard in liveaboard cruising, combining exceptional comfort and quality for divers and water sports enthusiasts. Accommodating up to 28 guests, it’s perfect for those seeking adventure in the Maldives, with a strong focus on eco-friendly practices and top-notch service. Its varied itineraries offer unforgettable experiences, from exploring vibrant coral reefs to unwinding amid tranquil ocean landscapes.

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27. Sachika

Description: Sachika – Top Class Cruising is a 33-meter liveaboard crafted for diving adventures across the Maldives. Spread over three decks, it accommodates up to 22 guests in 10 cabins and runs year-round dive safaris through the Central Atolls and the Wild Deep South. 

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28. Seafari Explorer 2

Description: Refurbished in 2022, the Seafari Explorer 2 is a top choice for divers seeking both comfort and adventure. More than just a liveaboard, this luxurious vessel features indoor and outdoor bars, a relaxing Jacuzzi, and Nitrox included in every package. With diverse itineraries, including 7- and 10-night Central Atolls trips, Manta Expeditions, and the South Special, each journey offers a truly unique and unforgettable diving experience.

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29. Nautilus Two

Description: Renovated in 2022, Nautilus Two offers the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation while exploring the Maldives’ Central Atolls. With 12 ensuite cabins designed for double or twin occupancy, the yacht features spacious lounges, a sun deck with loungers, cozy outdoor seating, and a jacuzzi, making it an ideal retreat for divers and kite surfers alike.

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30. Pearl 111 Liveaboard

Description: This three-masted wooden schooner is ideal for small charter groups, offering activities like diving, snorkeling, swimming, and surfing. It features 6 cabins accommodating 12 adults and 4 children, each with a private bathroom and air conditioning. With varnished mahogany interiors and a cozy salon, it provides a warm and inviting atmosphere for relaxing evenings onboard.

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31. Amba

Description: Designed for a smooth and stable journey with a unique 15-ton stabilizer system, this liveaboard offers comfort and luxury at sea. Accommodating 20 divers in 10 cabins—including luxury suites with private sundecks—it features a spacious salon, shaded lounges, cushioned sunbeds, and expert PADI, SSI, and RAID instructors for an exceptional diving experience.

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32. Black Manta

Description: The Black Manta offers the perfect blend of luxury and adventure, accommodating up to 28 guests in 16 air-conditioned cabins, including six sea-facing rooms. Each cabin features an ensuite bathroom, individual climate control, and ample storage for a comfortable stay.

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33. Princess Sara

Description: The Princess Sara is a 40m Maldives liveaboard built in 2018, featuring 10 ensuite cabins with flat-screen TVs, minibars, and air conditioning. Spread across four spacious decks, it offers an indoor lounge and bar, open-air relaxation areas, and a top-deck jacuzzi with stunning ocean views.

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34. Felicity

Description: Felicity is a 41m Maldives liveaboard offering a premium diving experience with 13 air-conditioned cabins. The Sea View Cabins on the main and upper decks feature king-size beds, flat-screen TVs, mini-fridges, and stunning ocean views, while the lower deck has 6 twin and 2 double cabins. All cabins come with ensuite bathrooms and ample storage for a comfortable stay.

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35. Ariyal

Description: Ariyal is a 45m Maldives liveaboard accommodating up to 26 guests across three cabin types. The lower deck has seven twin cabins, while the main and upper decks offer six sea-view suites with king-size beds and extra seating. All cabins are air-conditioned and include ensuite bathrooms, storage, and charging facilities.

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36. Princess Rani

Description: Princess Rani accommodates 22 guests in 11 air-conditioned ensuite cabins. The upper deck offers 4 spacious double-bed staterooms, while the lower deck has 5 cabins for up to 3 guests and 2 additional double-bed cabins. The yacht features a stylish outdoor lounge with panoramic views and an indoor salon with TV and DVD for entertainment.

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37. Ocean Divine

Description: Ocean Divine is a luxury liveaboard ideal for small groups and charters, offering a personalized Maldivian experience with Nitrox available for diving and surfing trips. It accommodates 12 guests in 5 Deluxe cabins and 1 Master cabin, all with ensuite facilities and air conditioning. Guests can relax in the comfortable lounge or on spacious outdoor decks with sun loungers and ocean views.

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38. Princess Maani

Description: This liveaboard combines comfort, functionality, and attentive service for an exceptional diving experience in the Maldives. Accommodating 28 guests, it offers spacious cabins across three decks, two jacuzzis, a sundeck, and an open-air cocktail bar, supported by 17 crew members and 5 experienced dive guides to ensure a seamless trip. The lower deck features 6 Superior cabins configurable for double, twin, or single occupancy, including a Family Room with an extra third bed.

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39. Ocean Sapphire

Description: Ocean Sapphire is available for group and charter bookings, offering personalized diving trips with Nitrox, a sundeck, and jacuzzi for a premium experience. Accommodating 22 divers in 11 cabins, it features 7 lower-deck staterooms with ensuite bathrooms and air conditioning, and upper-deck cabins with large windows and in-room TVs. The main deck lounge and dining area provide comfortable spaces to relax between dives, while 4 cabins are designed for triple occupancy, making it ideal for families.

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40. Princess Ulua

Description:Experience luxury diving and relaxation aboard this exquisite yacht, featuring 10 elegantly appointed cabins for 20 guests, an upper deck dining area with panoramic views, a sun deck with loungers, bar, and Jacuzzi, plus an optional spa for massages—perfect for both diving enthusiasts and leisure travelers.

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41. Azalea Liveaboard

Description: Azalea, a luxury liveaboard, offers diving cruises across the Maldives, ideal for groups and full-charter experiences. Accommodating up to 18 guests in 9 en-suite twin cabins with air conditioning, the main deck cabins provide extra space and stunning views. Guests can relax in the spacious lounge with large windows, enjoy the sundeck’s jacuzzi, sun loungers, and shaded areas, or savor fine cuisine and premium wines in the elegant dining area, all while taking in panoramic sea views.

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42. Soleil 2

Description: This modern liveaboard features state-of-the-art diving facilities with up to 4 dives daily and onboard courses, exploring the best sites in the Central and South Atolls of the Maldives. Accommodating 28 guests in 14 cabins, it offers 6 lower-deck cabins (4 twin, 2 double), 2 main-deck master cabins (double or twin), and 6 upper-deck balcony suites (twin), all with private showers and air conditioning. The spacious salon provides a comfortable area to relax between dives.

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43. Sunseeker

Description: This luxury liveaboard caters to individual, group, and full charter bookings, accommodating up to 23 guests (24 for full charters) in 12 modern cabins with adjustable beds for double or twin occupancy. The upper deck suite features a private jacuzzi, and the salon offers panoramic views for a relaxing stay. Safety is a priority, with comprehensive emergency equipment onboard, while the fully equipped dive deck, including a nitrox compressor, supports both novice and experienced divers.

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44. Dhinasha

Description: Dhinasha is an ideal liveaboard for charter and group bookings, offering fully tailored trips for diving, surfing, fishing, or cruising. The yacht accommodates 10 guests in spacious cabins with private showers and air-conditioning—seven on the lower deck, one on the main deck, and two on the upper deck. Guests can relax in indoor and outdoor lounges, enjoy chef-prepared meals, and take in stunning ocean views from the upper deck.

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45. Infinity X

Description: Embark on a luxurious diving adventure aboard this Bureau Veritas-accredited liveaboard, ideal for group or full charter bookings. Accommodating 38 guests in 19 cabins, it offers air conditioning, private bathrooms, HD TVs, and air-refresh systems. Guests can choose from lower-deck family staterooms, main-deck ocean-view cabins, or upper-deck suites with panoramic views.

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46. Fascination

Description: This boutique liveaboard is perfect for intimate charters of up to 6 guests, offering 7- to 10-night trips through the Central Atolls with BBQs on deserted islands, excursions, snorkeling, and fishing. It features 3 well-appointed cabins—two with convertible twin/double beds and a Master cabin for double occupancy—each with a bathroom, air conditioning, music system, and quality amenities.

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47. Honors Legacy

Description: Honors Legacy is a contemporary wooden liveaboard offering an exceptional diving experience across the Maldivian atolls, ideal for full charters and diving enthusiasts. Accommodating 20 guests in 10 ensuite cabins with air-conditioning, minibars, safes, and TVs, the ocean-view suites provide stunning vistas. Guests can relax in the spacious lounge with bar, entertainment, and karaoke, unwind on the sun deck, or enjoy the jacuzzi between dives, making it one of the best diving liveaboards in the Maldives.

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