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Diving on the Emperor Virgo liveaboard
It’s easy to see why visitors become addicted to diving in the Maldives—with a year-round tropical climate and warm water, it’s the ideal dive destination. From shore dives to liveaboards, divers can enjoy the Indian monsoon currents as they sweep the islands and flow through the atolls. Water temperatures range from 80 to 86 F (26 to 30 C) and visibility varies from 65 to 100 feet (20 to 30 m).
The best time of the year to see whale sharks and manta rays is August to November, although it’s also common to see plentiful other marine life in the area, such as barracuda, dolphins, turtles, and napoleon wrasse. Gray reef, blacktip, and whitetip sharks abound.
As the Emperor Virgo navigates through the Central, North, and South Atolls, some of the dive sites included in the itinerary are Ari Atoll, Vaavu, Huvadhoo, and Rasdhoo, famous for its rich marine life. With an endless array of dive sites, it would take several trips to explore all that the Maldives has to offer.
All dives on the Emperor Virgo take place from the accompanying diving dhoni, where guests enjoy ample space for gearing up and storage. The smaller boat also means guests are dropped much closer to dive sites and cleaning stations, accompanied by any of the three guides onboard.
To ensure that divers get the most out of their trip, free nitrox is available for those certified. A range of PADI courses also aim to enhance skills. The Emperor Virgo is equipped for rebreather diving as well.
Because of the medium to strong currents, drift dives are common, so it’s recommended that divers have at least achieved an intermediate or experienced level. However, various sites are suitable for beginners. Those who prefer not to experience strong currents should plan their trips away from the new and full moons when the currents are weaker.
Highlights:
- Pristine visibility up to 100 feet (30 m)
- Up to 17 dives
- Equipped for rebreather diving
- Free nitrox
Onboard the Emperor Virgo
Built in 2012 and refurbished in 2017, the Emperor Virgo is a 105-foot (32 m) luxurious and modern liveaboard built for diving. Accommodating up to 18 guests in nine spacious, air conditioned ensuite cabins, the Emperor Virgo is designed to provide comfort and luxury. Guests will find two cabins on the upper deck, two on the main deck, and four on the lower deck. All feature twin beds that can be adapted to doubles and en suite bathrooms.
Decorated in a contemporary style using light wood, interior spaces include the air conditioned dining room and lounge on the main deck, outfitted with comfortable sofas and a modern entertainment system.
Computers, flatscreen TVs, stereos, a DVD player, and a mini-library allow guests to relax and enjoy their time throughout the day by socializing, watching movies, or reading a book. WiFi is also available for an extra charge.
Outside, on the upper deck you’ll find an internationally stocked bar, and two sun decks are equipped with luxurious sun loungers, tables, and chairs.
Highlights:
- Refurbished in 2017
- Air conditioned cabins
- Book, music, and movie library with entertainment system
- WiFi packages available for purchase onboard
Dining on the Emperor Virgo
As with every liveaboard, the experience isn’t complete without abundant, delicious food, and guests on the Emperor Virgo won’t be disappointed. The dining area on the main deck features an incredible, panoramic view.
Guests can enjoy it as they dine on international cuisines served buffet-style three times a day. The menu also includes local cuisine, seafood, and vegetarian dishes to satisfy everyone’s individual preferences and dietary needs.
Refreshing beverages such as juice, coffee, tea, water, and soda are provided free of charge, as well as complimentary wine with dinner, along with light snacks throughout the day to keep guests energized between dives.
Highlights:
- Caters to dietary needs
- Complimentary wine with dinner
- Alternative alcoholic drinks are available at extra cost
Things we like:
- Welcoming crew
- Knowledgeable and thorough dive guides
- Great onboard amenities
- Incredible marine encounters with different types of sharks, manta rays, etc.
Things we don't like:
- Currents can be very strong in some locations
Key Facts
| Year Built | 2012 |
| Max Divers | 18 |
| 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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