Scubaspa Yang Liveaboard overview

By
Kiani Versluys
Contributor at DIVEIN.com
Kiani is a PADI instructor with a passion for traveling. From taking her first breath under water in the Gulf of Thailand, to working in the...
Rebecca Strauss
Editor at DIVEIN.com
Rebecca has been an avid traveler and scuba diver for many years. She began her editorial career by updating travel guides, which took her all over...

From serene reefs teeming with vibrant marine life to exhilarating encounters with whale sharks and hammerheads, each dive in the Maldives promises a thrilling exploration. Picture yourself navigating gentle currents alongside majestic mantas and elusive guitar sharks, and ending the dive day with a relaxing massage.

As the sister vessel of Scubaspa Yin, the Scubaspa Yang offers just such a holiday. This 165-foot (50 m) long liveaboard accommodates up to 40 guests in 19 staterooms and provides unparalleled style, luxurious comfort, and a range of activities for all travelers.

What sets this vessel apart is its unique blend of diving and spa facilities, catering perfectly to both divers and non-diving companions, making it an ideal choice for travelers seeking a combination of underwater exploration and spa relaxation.

Keep reading as we dive into our review of Scubaspa Yang. 

About this review

To help you find a that will fit your needs, we’ve tested, researched, and reviewed the best ones available today.
We test both in the water, diving in various conditions - and in our lab - so we can give you accurate answers on quality, performance, and the overall value.

Read about our test of s

Things we like:

  • Winner of multiple boating and tourism awards
  • The only PADI 5* Maldivian vessel
  • Ideal for both divers and non-divers, with activities including yoga, snorkel excursions, spa treatments, and ‘try-dive’ experiences

Things we don't like:

  • Drinks (alcoholic and non-alcoholic) are quite expensive
  • Coffee and tea only included during breakfast
  • With up to 40 guests, the boat lacks a personalized experience

Diving on Scubaspa Yang liveaboard

The Scubaspa Yang covers six different routes within three major geographical areas. The Central Atolls (Best of Maldives) itinerary offers year-round exploration and showcases the diverse marine life of the Maldives, from nudibranchs to whale sharks. Dive types include channel, drift, wall, wreck, and night dives.

The Far North itinerary, available between July and October, features Hanifaru Bay for snorkel-only manta ray encounters. For those seeking thrilling channel dives, the Deep South itinerary, recommended for experienced divers with advanced certifications, offers encounters with hammerheads, bull sharks, and more, including specific weeks dedicated to incredible encounters with tiger sharks, thresher sharks, and whale sharks. Private charters are available from late January to early May.

Diving aboard the Scubaspa Yang takes place from the dedicated dive dhoni, equipped with air compressors, a nitrox filling station, rinse tanks, and gear storage. Divers should note the depth restrictions, mandatory use of a dive computer, and certification requirements for night and deep dives. The experienced multilingual dive instructors cater to all levels, offering PADI courses from beginner to advanced. Rental equipment is available at a surcharge.

Highlights:

  • Up to 17 dives per trip
  • Frequent sightings of whale sharks, mantas, and a variety of sharks
  • Dive sites ranging from channel dives to walls and wrecks

Onboard Scubaspa Yang:

Welcoming up to 40 guests, Scubaspa Yang liveaboard features 10 cabins and nine suites offering configurations of queen, king, or twin beds, with one suite and one cabin adaptable for triple occupancy.

Each cabin features an ensuite bathroom and individually controlled air conditioning, while the nine main deck suites offer panoramic sea vistas.

Exterior spaces on Scubaspa Yang offer a blend of relaxation and adventure. There’s an alfresco dining area at the rear of the main deck, providing a scenic backdrop for mealtime. Guests can also enjoy movie screenings in the open-air cinema on the top deck.

More spaces to unwind include the large hot tub, inviting lounge areas, and ample deck space. Grab a quick workout in the mini gym, then let one of six onboard spa therapists work out any muscle kinks from a day of diving.

Finally, any non-divers in your party will love the optional yoga sessions and snorkel excursions. All guests aboard the Scubaspa Yang liveaboard must choose between three packages for their trip: a scuba holiday with up to 17 dives, a spa holiday with eight spa treatments or a scuba and spa holiday including six dives and four spa treatments.

Highlights:

  • Onboard gym, hot tub, spa, and open-air cinema
  • One suite can accommodate guests with mobility impairments
  • Six massage therapists on board

Dining onboard Scubaspa Yang

The main deck restaurant serves three buffet-style meals daily, showcasing a fusion of local and international cuisines. Featuring live cooking stations and internationally qualified chefs, the dining experience caters to various dietary needs and preferences.

The alfresco dining area at the rear of the main deck offers a delightful ambiance, and a highlight of the trip includes a memorable barbecue experience on a deserted island.

Two bars offer a selection of international wines and champagne. As part of the farewell celebration, guests are treated to a sunset cocktail party featuring complimentary alcoholic beverages.

Highlight:

  • Barbecue on a private island
  • Sunset cocktail party with complimentary alcoholic drinks
  • Live cooking stations

Things we like:

  • Winner of multiple boating and tourism awards
  • The only PADI 5* Maldivian vessel
  • Ideal for both divers and non-divers, with activities including yoga, snorkel excursions, spa treatments, and ‘try-dive’ experiences

Things we don't like:

  • Drinks (alcoholic and non-alcoholic) are quite expensive
  • Coffee and tea only included during breakfast
  • With up to 40 guests, the boat lacks a personalized experience
Key Facts
Year Built 2014
Max Divers 36
Price Range Luxury
Trip Length 5-7 Nights
Internet Yes ($)
Nitrox Yes ($)
Equipment Rental Yes ($)
Camera Station Yes
Air Conditioning Yes
Min. Logged Dives No minimum
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