Where to book
Diving on the Amba liveaboard
The Amba liveaboard offers 7-, 10 and 11-night itineraries (14 nights over Christmas and New Year) throughout the northern and central atolls. Divers can expect up to three dives a day, including a night dive. Divers must be certified to the equivalent of PADI Advanced Open Water, have a minimum of 50 dives and be certified to dive with nitrox.
Dives are guided, in buddy pairs, with up to 10 divers per group. Experienced divers may be able to dive in buddy pairs outside of the group if they have been assessed and approved by the dive leader. Rental gear is available on board and is very reasonably priced, but should be booked in advance to ensure availability.
The Maldives is a paradise for underwater photographers, with opportunities for both wide-angle reefscapes bursting with color and macro photography of the incredible critter life.
Guests can expect encounters with manta rays, whale sharks, tiger and other sharks, turtles and hundreds of species of reef fish. The Maldives is also a renowned spot for whale shark sightings, so there’s a good chance of seeing the gentle giants.
Diving takes place from a dedicated dhoni that’s well-equipped and spacious, leaving all equipment at individual gear stations to save space onboard the Amba. The dhoni has a bathroom, covered roof and sundeck, freshwater showers, and rinse tanks for camera equipment and gear.
Itineraries for the Amba liveaboard start and finish in Malé with transfers to and from the airport included in the trip price.
Highlights:
- Diverse marine life and frequent pelagic encounters
- Relaxed exploration on reefs, wrecks, and thilas (pinnacles)
- Experienced and safety-conscious crew
- Dedicated dive dhoni
Onboard the Amba
The yacht is 111 feet (34 meters) long and is quite spacious with four decks providing ample places for socializing or relaxing between dives.
Expect friendly and attentive service, without the high-end amenities or extensive personal touches found on luxury yachts. The Amba provides a solid mid-range option for divers who prioritize good value for money without compromising on comfort or dive quality.
Traditional teak lines the walls in the dining room and salon, and large tables encourage communal dining. The main salon is large and comfortable with a large TV and entertainment options for guests to enjoy. Dive briefings take place here via the crew is safety-conscious and knowledgeable.
There are several outdoor spaces, including a huge sundeck with ample sun loungers and additional seating where guests can relax. For those wanting some quiet time, bean bags and comfortable seating are available on different deck levels.
Diving takes place from a dedicated dhoni that’s well-equipped and spacious, leaving all equipment at individual gear stations to save space onboard the Amba. The dhoni has a bathroom, covered roof, and sundeck along with freshwater showers and rinse tanks for camera equipment and gear.
Highlights:
- Spacious communal areas
- Predominantly German speaking
- Attentive crew
- Huge sundeck with covered areas
Dining onboard the Amba
Three freshly prepared, buffet-style meals are served daily in the salon. Western, Asian, Maldivian, Bengali and Indian specialties feature local produce and freshly caught fish. Vegetarians are catered for as standard and vegans can be served with prior notice. Other dietary requests should be made at least two weeks in advance of departure.
Drinking water, tea, and instant coffee are available all day, as well as mid-morning and mid-afternoon snacks.
Alcoholic drinks and soft drinks are available at moderate prices from the onboard bar. Divers are welcome to bring their own favorite spirits, but should be conscious that the Maldives is a Muslim country and alcohol cannot be imported.
Highlights:
- Good quality meals with lots of choice
- Freshly baked sourdough bread daily
- Alcohol not included, though available at a moderate price
Things we like:
- Spacious cabins and communal areas
- Beginners’ trip once a year for inexperienced divers
- Excellent quality food
- Incredibly friendly and attentive team
- No overnight travel for undisturbed sleep
- Good value for money
Things we don't like:
- A mandatory service charge of 25 Euros per guest per night, payable in cash before departure
- No card payments on board; payments in cash only
- Vegetarian and vegan food choices limited
Key Facts
| Year Built | 2004 |
| Max Divers | 22 |
| Price Range | Mid-range |
| Trip Length | 5-7 Nights |
| Internet | No |
| Nitrox | Yes (free) |
| Equipment Rental | Yes ($) |
| Camera Station | Yes |
| Air Conditioning | Yes |
| Min. Logged Dives | No minimum |
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