Blue hues of an island's coast
Blue hues of an island's coast
Traditional dhoni cruise, Maldives
Views towards Waagali from the boat  | Deb Wilkinson
Beautiful underwater scenes
Heading towards Felidhe Atoll  | Deb Wilkinson
Sailing towards the lovely Waagali  | Deb Wilkinson

Maldives Dhoni Cruise

Cruise aboard atmospheric vessels in this tropical paradise

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 22 reviews

8 Days from

$1775 USD

Trip Code: MSS
View dates to BookEssential Information

Extra trip options & supplements

*Prices listed are per person

Maldives Dhoni Cruise Single Supplement
$570 USD

Duration

  • 8 Days

Activities

  • 8 day cruise

Accommodation

  • 7 nights dhoni

Meals

  • 7 Dinners
  • 7 Lunches
  • 7 Breakfasts

Difficulty Grading  

1 / 10

Discovery and Cruising

Trip highlights

  • Cruise the tranquil waters of the Maldives on an authentic Dhoni
  • Snorkel and explore the marine life beneath the waves
  • Unwind on some of the most beautiful white sandy beaches in the world
  • Savour delicious meals prepared fresh by your personal chef
  • Relax at overnight moorings amongst the islands

Overview

Imagine gliding through the crystal-clear, turquoise waters of the Maldives aboard a traditional dhoni—a handcrafted vessel inspired by ancient Arab sailing ships and made locally from coconut palm timber. Far from the crowds, this island-hopping adventure offers an intimate encounter with one of the Indian Ocean’s most breathtaking archipelagos. Each day brings a new experience: snorkel vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life, swim in tranquil lagoons, and explore secluded islands rich in natural beauty and cultural charm. Your tour leader, an expert local guide, shares deep insights into the region’s customs, traditions, and stunning biodiversity, enriching every moment of the journey. The dhoni has been thoughtfully converted into a comfortable live-aboard cruise boat, featuring couchette-style sleeping arrangements, a cozy indoor saloon, and generous deck space perfect for relaxing and soaking in panoramic ocean views. As the sun sets, anchor off a different island each evening—whether mingling with villagers in small communities or savoring a freshly prepared seafood barbecue on an untouched, uninhabited beach. This is more than a holiday—it’s an immersive escape into the soul of the Maldives.

Itinerary

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Upon arrival at Velana International Airport in Malé, you will be warmly greeted by our crew as you're escorted to the jetty. Get ready to leave the crowds behind and set sail into the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean. Settle into your cabin and meet the team before a detailed safety and itinerary briefing. Our journey begins with a cruise south toward the charming island of Guraidhoo. Ease into your adventure with a relaxed snorkel over Guraidhoo’s house reef—watch for butterflyfish, wrasses, and the occasional moray eel. This is a great spot to begin your snorkeling adventure in the Maldives’ beautiful coral reefs! (Beach towels, snorkels, and flippers are provided on board.) We will then step ashore to explore a traditional Maldivian island, visit local shops, interact with residents, and soak in the rhythm of island life. After a delightful dinner on deck, join your guide for a preview of the journey ahead.

Meals: L,D

Greet the sunrise as the boat glides toward Vaavu Atoll, known for some of the Maldives’ most untouched snorkelling sites. We will enjoy a morning snorkel at Turtle Reef where we drift over seagrass meadows and shallow coral gardens to encounter hawksbill turtles and schools of reef fish. Back onboard we savour a freshly prepared meal as we cruise to Kudi Boli. Here we jump back into the water to discover a dynamic reef teeming with clownfish stingrays, parrotfish, and—if you're lucky—reef sharks. The clarity and richness of this site are spectacular.

Meals: B,L,D

Our moning snorkel today takes us to Loabi Faru, where we glide over multi-coloured coral heads and spot wrasses, angelfish, and even the elusive octopus among the coral folds before continuing on to Bongo Veli. A tranquil tropical islet, Bongo Veli becomes your private paradise for the afternoon. Unwind with sun, sand, and swimming—or enjoy another snorkel just offshore. An unforgettable dinner awaits with a barbeque on the beach (weather permitting). Feast on grilled seafood and island fare by candlelight, with your toes in the sand and stars above.

Meals: B,L,D

Experience a lively underwater spectacle featuring shimmering schools of damselfish, fusiliers, and the vivid colors of healthy coral formations as we enjoy a morning snorkel at Kuda Anbara Reef. In the afternoon we explore the awe-inspiring vertical drop at Acho/Kacho Reef Wall, where large reef fish like trevally and snapper patrol the edge. This evening relax on deck with refreshments and reflect on a day rich in marine life as we sail toward Felidhoo.

Meals: B,L,D

This morning we explore Vaavu shipwreck, a hauntingly beautiful wreck that’s now home to snappers, batfish, and soft corals. Bring your underwater camera! As we sail towards Dhiggiri keep your eyes peeled for spinner dolphins leaping alongside the boat in playful pods. This afternoon we snorkel Fulidhoo Coral Garden where we discover this rich coral garden’s nooks and crannies where juvenile fish and macro-life flourish. We will head ashore to a village to meet the friendly locals and admire the colorful houses. Tonight we enjoy a Boduberu Cultural Performance where we experience the pulse of the Maldives through rhythmic drumming and dancing in a spirited performance by local artists.

Meals: B,L,D

This morning we have the chance to float above clusters of curious nurse sharks in shallow, clear waters at Nurse Shark Bay. A heart-pounding highlight! Enjoy breakfast and open sea views en route to our final atoll. This afternoon we hope to snorkel with Green Turtles (Near Biyadhoo). Here we drift among coral bommies and watch gentle green turtles glide gracefully through the sea.

Meals: B,L,D

Today we enjoy our final reef exploration—colorful hard corals and peaceful currents make for a reflective swim. We pay a visit to Itaafushi Sandbank - A picture-perfect sandbar for sunbathing, beachcombing, and one last snorkel. We hope to spend our final nights anchorage at Lagoonaa, where we celebrate a week of discovery with a sunset toast aboard. Alternative Option: In case of adverse weather, we’ll anchor at Hulhumale Harbor to ensure comfort and convenience for our morning departure.

Meals: B,L,D

Waking up on the dhoni, we have breakfast before being transferred to the airport.

Meals: B

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Upon arrival at the International Airport in Malé, you will be transferred to your dhoni. Our dhonis are equipped with private cabins and a sun deck. You will be welcomed aboard by the tour leader and introduced to the crew before cruising to the uninhabited island of Rihiveli Boduveli or a resort island. Our chef will prepare a buffet lunch aboard. The rest of the day will be spent swimming and snorkeling before anchoring for the night. This is a great spot to begin your snorkeling adventure in the Maldives’ beautiful coral reefs! (Beach towels, snorkels, and flippers are provided on board.)

Meals: L,D

On the Maldives Dhoni Cruise there’s only one thing to do, relax and enjoy! After breakfast, we will cruise to Vaavu Atoll, where we will stay near Kudi Boli, an area known for its pristine reef. You may encounter dolphins and turtles as you enjoy the serene surroundings.

Meals: B,L,D

Today, we cruise to the uninhabited island of Bodumohoraa. Relax on the beach, go skin diving, snorkeling, or swimming. Our crew will organize a beach barbecue where you can enjoy a feast of local seafood. Spend the night at anchor, with the option to sleep under the stars on deck.

Meals: B,L,D

Today we cruise to the picturesque inhabited island of Fulidhoo. Here we will meet the islanders, explore the local towns and have some time for local entertainment in the evening. We return to the dhoni in the evening.

Meals: B,L,D

We cruise back to Male Atoll and anchor at a nearby resort island for our final night.

Meals: B,L,D

Waking up on the dhoni, we have breakfast before being transferred to the airport.

Meals: B

Ready to start your adventure?

View dates to Book

What’s included?

Included

  • 7 breakfasts, 7 lunches and 7 dinners
  • accommodation on board a private Dhoni on a twin share basis
  • Maldives tourist taxes and tour permits
  • basic snorkelling equipment
  • Tour leader, local captain and crew
  • airport transfers
  • basic fishing gear
  • activities as listed in itinerary

Not included

  • international flights
  • alcoholic & aerated drinks
  • items of a personal nature such as phone calls, laundry etc.
  • tips
  • airport & departure taxes
  • visas
  • travel insurance

About your guide

You will have a Tour Guide, Captain, Chef and Deck Hands. The tour guide will be quick to answer questions, inform you about local culture, customs and history as well any additional information while you explore the crystal clear turquoise water and colourful reefs teaming with exotic ocean life.

Reviews (22)

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