To dive the Maldives is to experience some of the planet’s most iconic underwater landscapes: thilas bathed in current, clean coral gardens, and channels where the ocean’s giants glide past. The Blue Force One liveaboard, a 42-metre vessel purpose-built for these waters, offers a modern base of operations that balances genuine comfort with the practical demands of serious diving. Recognised by the Liveaboard Association of Maldives award as the best boat built in the country in 2018, it was designed from the keel up to extend the quality of the experience beyond the dive deck.
Accommodation onboard the Blue Force One is arranged across 12 cabins, housing a maximum of 24 guests. Options range from well-appointed deluxe cabins to master suites with sea views; all include private bathroom facilities, individual air conditioning control, and a safe. The 2 master suites feature private Jacuzzi tubs, a detail that speaks to the liveaboard’s intent: to provide a level of comfort that competes with island resorts.
Common areas are generous and intentionally open. Meals are served buffet-style, often on the bow when conditions allow, with a varied menu of international and local dishes. For downtime, there are multiple sunbathing decks with loungers, an open-air bar on the upper deck, and a spacious saloon equipped with an 85-inch TV, music system, and a PC for photo editing. For water sports, there is a kayak, fishing, paddle SUPs, and an inflatable Jobe banana boat. Non-diving activities also include fisherman village, island and sand bar visits.
Dive operations are run from a dedicated 18-metre dhoni, which serves as a self-contained tender. All scuba equipment, compressors, and the nitrox membrane system are housed on this support vessel, keeping the mothership quiet and uncluttered. The dhoni’s superior manoeuvrability allows for efficient access to dive sites and straightforward diver pick-ups a practical setup that minimises hassle and maximises time in the water. This separation of liveaboard comfort and dive operations is a hallmark of the Blue Force approach. The yacht is now also equipped with Horizon Semi-closed Rebreather units and Divertug Tek 12 Underwater Scooters for rent.
The Blue Force One liveaboard runs diving cruises that capitalise on the archipelago’s seasonal highlights. While much of the year is spent exploring the central atolls, renowned for their consistently good structure and marine life, the vessel also conducts scheduled trips south to encounter the larger fauna of Huvadhoo and Addu, and north to Hanifaru Bay during the monsoon months when manta rays congregate. This flexibility allows divers to target specific experiences, from grey reef shark action to the possibility of whale shark encounters.
The liveaboard's technical specifications underline its self-sufficiency. Redundant systems, from dual generators and desalination plants to spare compressors and nitrox membranes, are fitted to ensure that voyages continue without interruption, regardless of location. It is this attention to operational reliability, combined with a layout that prioritises guest space, that gives the Blue Force One liveaboard its reputation among international agencies as one of the top 10 liveaboards globally.
For certified divers looking to invest in a week or more of Maldivian diving, the decision often comes down to a vessel’s character and its crew’s knowledge. The Blue Force team operates with the confidence of long experience in these atolls, offering a blend of professional guidance and local insight. Whether your interest lies in covering distance to reach southern extremes or settling into the rhythm of central atoll diving, the Blue Force One liveaboard provides a modern, comfortable, and thoroughly capable platform from which to explore the Indian Ocean’s blue.
Blue Force One has 12 cabins, all with ensuite bathrooms. On the lower deck there are 6 cabins with a double and single bed, and 1 Master cabin with a double bed. On the main deck there are 2 Master Suites with a double bed (jacuzzi for 2 people and sea views). On the upper deck there is 2 Junior Suites with a double bed and single bed, and 1 cabin with 2 single beds.
All the cabins have:
- Individual control air conditioning
- Sea-view windows (main and upper decks) or portholes
- Full bathroom with toilet and hot water shower
- Hand basin, toiletries, hair dryer and towels
- 32' TV (except upper deck cabin)
- Reading lights
- Safety box
- 3-pin UK style mains outlet 220 volts - 24 hours per day
- Some adapters available
- Cabinet, drawers and mirror
- Smoke detectors and fire alarm
- Bedding & space for luggage
No. of bathrooms / showers - 12 / 12 - hot water
Maldives Central & Northern Atolls (Express) (8 Days / 7 Nights - 18 Dives)
Trip highlights: whale sharks, shark action, manta rays, schooling fish & big pelagics
Diving environment: advanced divers, beginner divers, drift diving, healthy reefs, off the beaten track, very popular, wall diving, wreck diving
Dive sites and activities: North Male, Baa Atoll: Hanifaru Bay, and possibly Ari and Rasdhoo atolls
Day 1
Your dive expedition begins near Male International Airport as you step aboard the Blue Force One liveaboard. After a warm welcome from the crew, a comprehensive briefing on safety and services, and a delicious lunch, you will complete a check dive. The evening concludes with dinner and the chance to settle in and connect with your fellow divers.
Core Days
The core of the liveaboard safari is an exploration of the Central and Northern Atolls, focusing on the thrilling drift dives in the current-rich channels and thilas. The North Male Atoll provides an exciting start, known for its submerged pinnacles that act as magnets for large pelagic fish. Here, the diving is focused on encounters with grey reef sharks, stingrays, and other transient ocean life, providing current-fed viewing opportunities for experienced divers.
A major highlight of this Blue Force One expedition is the time spent navigating to Baa Atoll, particularly during the optimal season, which is known for its incredible marine action. You will visit the world-famous Hanifaru Bay. While diving is restricted within this UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, an unforgettable snorkelling experience awaits, offering a front-row seat to hundreds of manta rays gathering to feed on the plankton-dense waters. Witnessing them barrel roll is a truly spectacular and humbling experience.
Moving between the atolls, the cruise offers opportunities to search for specific, prized encounters. If conditions align, the Blue Force One liveaboard will detour to Rasdhoo Atoll, where divers may encounter elusive hammerhead sharks on early morning dives. Further exploration in Ari Atoll focuses on seeking out the majestic whale shark in the plankton-rich outer reef areas. Divers can also expect to see schools of eagle rays, numerous nurse sharks, and large schools of snapper and kingfish at various dive sites, confirming the Maldives' reputation as a premier liveaboard destination for big fish action.
The time between dives also allows for enjoying water sports and visiting local sandbanks or traditional fishermen villages.
Day 8
Following a final, relaxed breakfast on the last morning, you will disembark the Blue Force One near Male International Airport, departing with memories of an extraordinary Maldivian diving adventure.
Maldives Central & Southern Atolls (8 Days / 7 Nights - 18 Dives)
Trip highlights: whale sharks, hammerhead sharks, shark action, manta rays, turtles, schooling fish & big pelagics
Diving environment: advanced divers, beginner divers, drift diving, healthy reefs, off the beaten track, very popular, wall diving, wreck diving
Dive sites and activities: North Male, South Male, Felidhoo, Meemu, Thaa, Laamu and Huvadhoo atolls
Day 1
Your expedition encompassing the Central and Southern Atolls of the Maldives begins as you board the Blue Force One liveaboard at Kooddoo on Laamu Atoll. After a warm welcome, you will receive a full introduction to the crew, safety procedures, and yacht services. Following a satisfying lunch, you will complete an essential check dive before settling in for dinner and meeting your fellow guests.
Core Days
The first part of this Blue Force diving adventure focuses on the action-packed Central Atolls, including North and South Male, Felidhoo, and Meemu. Here, the deep, current-swept channels of North and South Male Atoll set the stage for exhilarating drift dives, attracting a congregation of pelagic species. In Felidhoo, you will test your current diving skills in passages known for attracting various shark species, alongside schools of trevallies and tuna. A highlight is the famous night dive at Alimatha House Reef, offering an intimate and memorable encounter with numerous nurse sharks.
Moving south into Meemu Atoll, the diving offers stunning displays of colourful soft corals alongside exciting sightings of grey reef sharks and eagle rays. Continuing the southbound exploration, the Blue Force One liveaboard visits the spectacular Thaa Atoll, which is frequently visited by oceanic giants. Divers often experience the humbling spectacle of manta rays at designated cleaning stations, while the plankton-rich outer areas offer opportunities to encounter the majestic whale shark and even sightings of hammerheads. This blend of vibrant coral life and large marine animals confirms the Maldives’ world-class reputation.
The final atolls, Laamu and Huvadhoo, represent a move into the remote, off-the-beaten-track Deep South. Huvadhoo is defined by its deep channels and pristine walls, offering exceptional quality dives where you may witness a constant parade of marine life. Regular encounters here include blacktip and whitetip reef sharks, nurse sharks, stingrays, and turtles. Divers who venture to this part of the Maldives may also be rewarded with sightings of the often-elusive thresher shark.
The entire safari aboard the Blue Force One liveaboard is designed to immerse you in the best of the archipelago's marine world. But beyond the diving, there is ample opportunity to relax or explore. Non-divers and divers alike can enjoy excellent snorkelling, paddleboarding, and kayaking. The cruise also includes visits to deserted sandbanks and traditional villages to discover more of the country’s local culture.
Day 8
Disembarkation from the liveaboard will follow a final, relaxed breakfast on the last day of the cruise, taking place at the opposite airport, either Kooddoo on Laamu Atoll or Gan Airport on Addu Atoll, concluding your extraordinary Maldivian diving experience.
Maldives Central Atolls
Trip highlights: whale sharks, hammerhead sharks, shark action, manta rays, schooling fish & big pelagics
Diving environment: advanced divers, beginner divers, drift diving, very popular, wreck diving
Dive sites and activities: North Male, South Male, Ari and Felidhoo atolls
Day 1
Your adventure aboard the Blue Force One liveaboard begins as you board the yacht near Male International Airport. The cruise management will offer a thorough introduction to the staff, onboard services, and safety protocols. After a delicious lunch, you will take part in an essential check dive, concluding the day with dinner and the chance to meet your fellow guests.
Core Days
The heart of this Maldives liveaboard dive safari is spent navigating the Central Atolls, offering exhilarating drift dives through channels and passages. From North to South Male Atoll, this Blue Force One dive expedition is focused on spectacular encounters with large pelagic life, including various sharks, rays, and dolphins. These submerged pinnacles and channel entrances serve as a stage for incredible marine action, providing experienced divers with world-class, current-fed viewing opportunities.
In the southern channels of Felidhoo Atoll, the diving offers both dramatic verticality and exciting pelagic sightings. The spectacular walls are a masterpiece of nature, displaying vibrant soft corals and dense bushes of black coral in a maze of caves and swim-throughs.
The famous Miyaru Faru, which translates aptly to ‘Shark Reef’ in Dhivehi, lives up to its name. Here, an impressive line-up of patrolling grey reef sharks dominates the scene, a powerful reminder of the Maldivian ecosystem's vitality. The natural shelter of an overhang at the channel provides an ideal, safe vantage point for observing this powerful parade, with the occasional hammerhead even gliding into view.
Further west, Ari Atoll brings you closer to the gentle giants of the ocean. The plankton-rich outer reefs and passages are prime feeding grounds for the majestic whale shark. Scuba divers on this safari aboard the Blue Force One liveaboard may also witness plenty of mantas, large groups of nurse sharks, schools of eagle rays, and numerous species of snappers and kingfish, cementing the Maldives' reputation as a true haven for marine diversity. The liveaboard experience extends beyond the dive deck, offering time for non-divers and divers alike to enjoy snorkeling, kayaking, paddleboarding, and visiting traditional fishermen villages to discover more of the country.
Final Day
Following a final, relaxed breakfast, disembarkation will take place near Male International Airport, concluding your unforgettable Maldivian diving experience.
Maldives Deep South Atolls (8 Days / 7 Nights - 18 Dives)
Trip highlights: whale sharks, shark action, manta rays, schooling fish & big pelagics
Diving environment: advanced divers, beginner divers, drift diving, healthy reefs, off the beaten track, wall diving
Dive sites and activities: Laamu, Huvadhoo, Fuvahmulah & Addu atolls
Day 1
The expedition into the remote Deep South of the Maldives begins as you step aboard the Blue Force One liveaboard in Kooddoo, Laamu Atoll. Your first afternoon is dedicated to a comprehensive welcome and orientation with the cruise management and crew, covering safety protocols, vessel services, and the rhythm of life on board. Following a satisfying lunch, you’ll complete a necessary check dive, culminating in dinner and the chance to meet your fellow explorers.
Core Days
The core of this liveaboard safari is a dive exploration of the Deep South’s most rewarding destinations: Huvadhoo, Fuvahmulah, and Addu Atolls. Huvadhoo Atoll sets the standard with its vastness, defined by pristine fringing reefs, clear lagoons, and, crucially, its deep, current-swept channels. These drift dives are a main act for pelagic enthusiasts, promising a spectacle of marine activity that regularly includes stingrays, turtles, spinner dolphins, and an array of sharks: blacktip and whitetip reef sharks, nurse sharks, and the distinctive thresher shark.
The route's defining feature is the world-renowned Fuvahmulah Atoll. Rising from the deep ocean floor, this unique island ecosystem acts as a magnet for a concentrated collection of large predators. Certified divers are afforded unparalleled, often intense, encounters with oceanic whitetip and tiger sharks. The sheer abundance of prey here creates an active hunting environment, offering a privileged view of magnificent pelagic species like sailfish, mola mola (ocean sunfish), and fast-moving schools of tuna.
The Blue Force One itinerary’s southern reach continues through the channels and passes of Addu Atoll. These dives consistently reward the prepared diver, as the strong currents aggregate impressive marine life, from schools of eagle rays and grey reef sharks to other large species migrating through.
Time onboard the Blue Force One liveaboard also provides non-diving pleasures, including relaxing on a remote sandbank, enjoying watersports, and visiting traditional villages to gain a cultural insight into the Maldivian archipelago.
Day 8
Your final morning commences with a relaxed, final breakfast before disembarking at Gan Airport on Addu Atoll for your onward journey, concluding your extraordinary Deep South diving experience.
Note: these trips can run in reverse so please double check the ports of departure and return.
[Information is best estimate in ideal circumstances and subject to changes beyond our control. The itinerary is a guide only and may be adapted to best suit the weather, tides, currents, availability and other prevailing events. Price is for the cruise, not for an exact number of dives].
A week on the Blue Force One liveaboard settles into a comfortable cycle of underwater exploration, surface intervals filled with good food, and the simple pleasure of watching the Indian Ocean glide by. The day is structured around the dives, but never feels rigid.
Most days offer 3 dives, with the schedule adjusted for 2 night dives during the week. You might wake to the gentle thrum of the engines as the boat repositions, then enjoy a light breakfast before the day’s first dive brief.
Between dives, the boat is yours to enjoy. Find a spot on one of the 3 sun decks with a book, stretch out on a sun lounger, or take the kayak or paddleboard out for a different perspective of the atoll. If the weather plays along, the Blue Force One crew organises a true Maldivian experience: a beach barbecue on a deserted island, or a visit to a traditional fishing village to see a different pace of life.
When it comes to dining, all meals are served buffet-style at the large outdoor restaurant on the bow a fantastic spot to eat with the sea breeze and a view. You can help yourself to coffee, tea, and chilled water from the dispenser at any hour.
* Breakfasts are cooked to order for eggs, alongside a buffet of beef bacon, sausages, pastries, fresh bread, cereals, yoghurt, and fresh juices.
* Lunch and dinner are where the variety shows, with the menu changing daily. Expect a spread that might include grilled fish caught earlier in the trip, chicken and beef dishes, pasta, hearty soups, and plenty of fresh vegetables. A selection of ice cream and tropical fruit usually rounds off the meal.
The liveaboard team understands that dive holidays build an appetite, and the emphasis is on generous, tasty food that caters to a mix of tastes after a day in the ocean.
