Where to book
Diving on the Emperor Serenity liveaboard
The Maldives offers dreamy white sand beaches, incredible reefs, and abundant marine life, so it’s no wonder that it’s a top diving destination. With a tropical climate and year-round warm temperatures, divers can enjoy leisurely drift dives as the Indian monsoon currents sweep the islands. Water temperatures range from 80 to 86 F (26 to 30 C).
August to November is considered the best time of year to see manta rays and whale sharks, while January to April offers great visibility and the warmest months. From December to March, the water currents flow through the atolls from east to west, creating incredible visibility of roughly 65 to 98 feet (20 to 30 m) along the eastern atolls. On the western side, visibility is about 49 to 65 feet (15 to 20 m).
The Emperor Serenity’s diverse itinerary allows divers to explore most of the well-known dive sites in the Maldives, such as Rasdhoo Atoll, where Madivaru and Hammerhead Point are located, North and South Ari Atolls, and South Male Atoll.
The itinerary also includes Vaavu Atoll, where you’ll find Fotteyo Falhu, the largest unbroken barrier reef in the Maldives. This 31-mile (50 km) reef is the ideal place for manta rays and whale shark sightings, depending on the time of year.
With up to four dives a day, four guides, and 13 crew members on board, divers are well catered to above and below the water. Diving takes place from a 78-foot (24 m) dhoni, equipped with three staff, compressors, oxygen, comprehensive First Aid, and AED. Additionally, nitrox is free for certified divers.
Highlights:
- Healthy reefs and abundant marine life
- Outstanding visibility up to 100 feet (30 m)
- Manta ray feeding stations
- Free nitrox
- Dedicated facilities for photographers
Onboard the Emperor Serenity
The Emperor Serenity is a 131-foot-long (40 m) liveaboard that comfortably accommodates up to 26 guests in 13 well-equipped cabins. Four spacious suites on the upper and main decks are equipped with king-sized beds; the rest of the cabins feature single or double beds. All are ensuite and feature air conditioning, hair dryers, and a TV.
With maximum comfort for guests and divers in mind, the air-conditioned salon is a perfect spot to relax on one of many sofas. There’s an entertainment system, TV, board games, and a library stocked with books, music, and movies. WiFi data packages are available for purchase on board for those who want to stay connected.
The upper deck of the Emperor Serenity features both a shaded and an open area, ideal for unwinding or enjoying a little stargazing in the Maldivian night sky. During the day, lounge on bean bags and sunbeds.
Since diving takes place from a spacious and fully equipped diving dhoni, there’s more space on board for guests to move around freely and safely.
Highlights:
- Air-conditioned cabins
- Covered and open-air deck spaces for relaxing
- Fully equipped diving dhoni
- WiFi packages available for an extra charge
Dining on the Emperor Serenity
Guests can recharge and stay energized throughout the day with three meals and snacks in between dives. The meals are served buffet-style with varied menus, including local and Western food with vegetarian options. As an added bonus, guests can also delight in a tasty barbecue while visiting one of the deserted islands.
While a complimentary glass of wine is offered with dinner, guests can opt for beer, wine, spirits, or cocktails from the internationally stocked bar at an extra charge. Special dietary requests can be catered to, however, requests must be made at the time of booking.
Highlights:
- Great variety of food
- Island barbecue
- Complimentary wine with dinner
- Alternative alcoholic drinks are available at extra cost
Things we like:
- Attentive crew
- Knowledgeable guides
- Great food variety
- Spacious cabins
Things we don't like:
- There may be an odor in some rooms due to humidity
Key Facts
| Year Built | 2016 |
| Max Divers | 26 |
| Price Range | Mid-range |
| Trip Length | 5-7 Nights |
| Internet | Yes ($) |
| Nitrox | Yes (free) |
| Equipment Rental | Yes ($) |
| Camera Station | Yes |
| Air Conditioning | Yes |
| Min. Logged Dives | No minimum |
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