Location
The Maldives is in the Indian Ocean, a 10-14hr flight from the UK, around 370 miles southwest of Sri Lanka. It is made up of 1200 islands, stretching over 500 miles from north to south. The main arrival airport for all flights to the Maldives is Male's airport island (MLE).
The Maldives is famous for its great snorkelling, manta cleaning stations, whalesharks, shark dives and fast drift dives through channels. The water remains a constant 27-28 C year round.
Covid Travel Information
View entry requirements here
All travellers must submit a self-declarative health declaration within 96 hours prior to travel online portal of Maldives Immigration, "Imuga", imuga.immigration.gov.mv.
Updated DEC 2024
Weather and Climate
Whilst there are 2 monsoon seasons (Nov-Apr & May-Oct), the diving remains excellent year round. Diving operators will changes their dive sites in each season to find the best hot spots for the big fish! Traditionally, our summer months tend to be windier with a higher chance of rain, whilst the winter months are flatter. However, the seasons are much less predictable in reality and its a fabulous place to dive whatever time of year!
Travel
Flight options
Our holidays to the Maldives can be quoted with most major airlines. If you would like to depart from a regional UK airport (eg. Glasgow/Edinburgh, Manchester, Birmingham or Gatwick) or have a specific airline you prefer to fly with, simply let us know in your booking request. Times and any applicable supplements will be confirmed by your travel consultant before you finalise your holiday. We are unfortunately not able to redeem airmiles on your behalf.
If you make your own flight arrangements to Male, please check the transfer arrangements before confirming your flights. Please do not finalise any flight arrangements yourself before your liveaboard space is confirmed as being held.
Stopovers
As most flights are not direct, it is simple to add a stop over en route - simply ask your travel consultant for a quote.
Sri Lanka is our most popular, up coming destination - with beautiful beaches, it's a great alternative to staying in the Maldives resorts. If you are feeling a bit more adventurous, why not head into the jungle for look for elephants and leopards. Or if you are a culture vulture, we highly recommend a Kandy city tour. The choice is yours!
As we are able to book most major airlines to the Maldives, you can also add a stop to break up your flight. Popular locations include Dubai, Doha and Abu Dhabi.
Arrange before you go
Visa requirements
UK passport holders are able to obtain a free 30 day visa on arrival. Do ensure your passport has 6 months validity from your return date to prevent any issues with immigration. It is your responsibility to ensure your passport is valid and you fulfil entry requirements. Regulations can change: Please review current FCO advice click here . If transiting via Sri Lanka you must have a visa prior to travel click here to review
Insurance
Scuba Travel requires all of our customers to have diving insurance. Please make sure that you have appropriate cover for your diving activities.
We also strongly recommend you have travel insurance. It's worth taking out travel insurance once you have paid your deposit to ensure you are covered for unforeseen events and cancellation.
Immunisations
Please speak to your local GP or check out the latest NHS advice for the required travel immunisations for your destination: click here to go to the NHS
Preparing to fly
Seating
You will be able to manage your booking online once you have been ticketed (after you have paid your holiday balance). Most airlines will now enable you to select your seating at this point. There may be a small charge for prebookable seating before online check in opens. Please speak to the airline for more information about charges.
Check in
As you are flying with a scheduled airline, you will be able to check in online with your airline. Please visit their website for more information about when online check in opens.
Lounge
An airport lounge is a great way to start your holiday or to while away flight connections in comfort. Scuba Travel works with Lounge Pass to offer a huge range of affordable airport lounges around the world.
click here for more info on Lounge Pass
Parking
Prebook your airport parking to save money! If you have a long way to travel, why not also look at booking an airport hotel. These aren't as expensive as you might think.
click here for holiday extras
What happens when I arrive?
On arrival in the Maldives, you will need to clear immigration and collect your baggage. You will then be met outside of arrivals by a representative from your liveaboard or resort. They will be holding a board with either your destination or your name on it.
If you have any issues at all locating your rep, please turn left from arrivals and go to the information desk at Male airport. We have an emergency contact, manned by a member of the team here in the UK. Please call 0044 7747 488 002. We will be able to help your rep locate you in the airport.
Transfers
If your holiday begins in Male you will be met and taken to your boat. The transfer takes around 20mins.
Many of our Maldives holidays will include either a domestic flight or seaplane transfer. It takes approx 45mins -1 hour to clear immigration and collect your baggage at Male airport. We endeavour to keep the transit between flights as short as possible and your transfer will normally take place within 3 hours of your international arrival, but please be aware, you may have to wait at the airport between flights.
The domestic terminal is right next door to arrivals. This has AC, bathrooms and a small cafe. You will usually be met by a rep, who will assist you in moving between the terminals. The baggage allowance on domestic flights is typically 20kgs hold and 5kgs hand baggage. Excess baggage is charged locally $2-$5/kg.
The seaplane check in desk is to your right on exiting the arrivals hall. You will check your bag in here and then be transferred to the seaplane terminal by bus. This has AC, bathrooms, a small cafe and shop. The seaplanes run regularly throughout the day and due to the way the scheduling is organised, the exact time of your seaplane cannot be confirmed prior to arrival in Male. Seaplanes do not run in the dark - the fist seaplane is around 06:00 Male time and ends around 16:00 Male time. The baggage allowance on seaplane flights is typically 20kgs hold and 5kgs hand baggage. Excess baggage is charged locally $2-$5/kg.
Departures
You will be taken back to Male airport in time for your international flight. Domestic flights and seaplanes will arrive in time for you to make your connections. Typically you will arrive at the airport 1 1/2- 2 hours before your flight time.
There is currently no departure tax when leaving the Maldives.
Info
Tipping
Tipping is entirely at your discretion. We do not make recommendations as to how much to tip. Should you wish to leave a tip for the guides and crew, it should reflect the level of service you have enjoyed.
Currency
The official currency of the Maldives is the rufiyya. However, we generally recommend you take USD as this is the preferred currency for most transactions. Do ensure you have smaller denominations handy as larger notes can be difficult to use. Notes should be in good condition. Credit and debit cards can be used, but do be aware of currency conversions and card surcharges. There is a 16 %GSTsales tax (17% from July 2025) applied to all local payments. be difficult to use. Notes should be in good condition. Credit and debit cards can be used, but do be aware of currency conversions and card surcharges. There is a 16 %GST (sales tax) applied to all local payments.
Phone coverage
The Maldives has good mobile phone coverage throughout. You can purchase a local SIM card at the airport if you prefer. Carpe vita offers free wifi (where there is phone coverage) but this can be slow. If you need internet, we recommend you make arrangements with your provider in the UK.
Plugs and electricity
Electricity is 240V - UK 3 pin plugs are commonplace, although some plugs may have 2pin European connections. Please do not leave batteries charging unattended in your cabins at any time.
Extras
Hire equipment
Kit hire must be prebooked but is paid for locally onboard. Reg: $85 per week, BCD: $85 per week, computer: $85 per week, wet suit: $40 per week and complete dive kit $290 per week
Extras
Carpe Vita can teach a wide range of courses on board. These must be prebooked and are paid for on board. Please speak to your travel consultant for current course prices and options
Souvenirs
There is an on board boutique selling a wide range of souvenirs including tshirts, jewellery and marine art. All stock items are subject to availability.
Nitrox/Gas
Free of charge for certified divers, subject to fill availability on board
Payments
Deposits and Balances
This holiday is a boat and Male airport transfer package only. Where needed, domestic flights are also included as part of your transfers. A typical deposit for a Maldives liveaboard is 30% of your holiday cost. This will be due once your holiday has been confirmed. Your balance will then be due 90 days before travel. Depending on your flight option and ticketing deadline, you may need to pay in full for your flight. From time to time, promo trips with lower deposits on boat only spaces may be on sale as a special offer. Your travel consultant will outline the flight payment structure at the time of booking.
Ways to pay
We accept mastercard and visa debit or credit cards. If you would like a pay by link to complete check out via email please let us know and it can be set up for you. We do not take AMEX.
All non sterling card payments and UK business debit cards will be subject to the 3% surcharge.
Alternatively, you are welcome to pay via bank transfer. Overseas bank transfers must add £8 to the sterling total to cover international handling fees.
We are not able to accept PayPal transactions or personal cheques.
Group Payments
If you have booked as part of a group, you can still call and pay directly without needing to go via your group leader. Please have your trip reference number to hand to help us locate your holiday as quickly as possible. You will receive a transaction receipt - your group leader will forward your ATOL certificate and booking confirmation
Discounts
Repeat Guests
Are you one of Scuba Travel's repeat customers? Over 60% of our customers trust Scuba Travel to book their next diving holiday, time after time.
And we believe you deserve a huge thanks for your ongoing support over the years, which is what our repeater discount is all about! Travel with us again in either 12 months or 24 months and you will qualify for a discount. That's all you have to do. No forms, no numbers to remember, no fuss, just a good honest price reduction.
5% off for repeat customers travelling with Scuba Travel within 24 months
Carpe Fleet offer repeat divers a 5% discount on their boat package, but you must mention this at the time of booking and it cannot be combined with special offers.
Repeat discounts are not cumulative and cannot be applied to special offer prices
Included
Standard cabin on board on a full board basis (twin/double share cabin) - cabin upgrades available.
Up to 3 dives daily, with 12lt tank, nitrox and weights.
Tea, coffee and drinking water are included in your package
Airport transfers will be provided and run at fixed times between the boat and airport (visa versa). When required domestic flights are also included as part of your transfers
Excluded
You can elect to add international flights to your boat package. If you prefer to make your own flight arrangements, you must notify us of your flight arrangements at least 4 weeks prior to travel so we can make local arrangements as required. It is your responsibility to ensure your flights are booked correctly to match your land arrangements. If you are continuing your holiday in the Maldives at a resort, hotel or another liveaboard, your on-going transfers need to be arranged by you from the airport.
Additional kit hire and any on board souvenirs, alcoholic and non alcoholic beverages, speciality teas and coffee
16% GST is applied to all local purchases in the Maldives (17% as of July 2025)Credit and debit card payments carry a further surcharge.
Safety Information
With over 17 years of experience in the Maldives and fleet of three liveaboards, Carpe Diem ensures enhanced safety and security throughout your dive trip. The following information is provided for all Carpe Vessels
Carpe Diem Maldives Diving Safety Procedures & Standards
1) Onboard Fire Prevention Procedures & Suppression Equipment
Fire Prevention Measures:
Routine inspections and maintenance of all electrical wiring, fuel lines, and mechanical systems to prevent malfunctions that could lead to fire hazards.
Clearly marked no-smoking zones, with smoking restricted to designated outdoor areas to minimize fire risks.
Use of fire-resistant materials in high-risk areas such as the galley, engine room, and crew quarters.
Mandatory fire safety training for all crew members, including fire prevention, emergency response, and extinguisher use.
Proper storage of flammable materials, including dive gear batteries, fuels, lubricants, and cooking gases, in fireproof compartments.
Fire Suppression Equipment:
ABC-type fire extinguishers are strategically placed throughout the vessel and Dive Dhoni, ensuring quick access in case of an emergency.
Fire blankets are stored in the kitchen and engine room for rapid response to localized fires.
Smoke detectors and fire alarms are installed in all cabins, common areas, and operational sections of the vessel for early fire detection.
Emergency shut-off valves for fuel and electrical circuits allow for immediate response to potential hazards.
Dedicated fire suppression systems installed in the engine room, ensuring automated response in case of fire outbreaks.
Fire pump, hose and nozzle provide ready for immediate use in firefighting situations.
2) Emergency Procedures, Briefings & Muster Drill
Guest Safety Briefings (Conducted at the Start of Each Trip):
Life Jackets are provided in each cabin clearly marked with instructions on location and proper use in the event of an emergency. Additionally the dive dhoni is equipped with life jackets and clearly marked.
Fire & Emergency Exit Locations & Singage: Clear guidance on escape routes and muster points.
Diver Recall System & Lost Diver Protocol: Explanation of recall signals, emergency ascent procedures, and buddy system guidelines.
Medical Equipment & First Aid Locations: Identification of where first aid kits and oxygen kits are stored.
Evacuation Communication Procedures: Explanation of how guests and crew will be notified in the event of an evacuation.
Emergency Evacuation Protocol:
Chain of Command: A structured system in place where the captain or designated officer takes charge to ensure a controlled response.
Communication with Authorities: Direct channels to the Maldives Coast Guard and emergency response teams for assistance if needed.
3) Onboard Medical Equipment
Medical Equipment Includes:
Multiple emergency first aid kits positioned throughout the vessel.
Emergency Oxygen kits (equipped with demand valves and non-rebreather masks) available both on the main vessel and Dhoni for immediate treatment of dive-related injuries.
Basic medications, including pain relievers, anti-seasickness tablets, antibiotics, and antihistamines.
Trauma care supplies, including sterile bandages, sutures, and burn treatment materials.
Emergency contact lists for hyperbaric chambers and the nearest medical facilities.
Emergency Medical Response:
Crew trained in EFR, CPR, oxygen administration, and basic first aid to provide immediate assistance in case of medical incidents.
Rapid emergency transport arrangements in place for evacuations when necessary.
4) Crew Training & Certifications
Mandatory Certifications for Crew Members:
STCW (Standards of Training, Certification & Watchkeeping) for all maritime crew, ensuring competence in safety and emergency response.
EFR (Emergency First Response) & CPR Training for all dive guides and crew members.
Oxygen Provider Training to address dive-related emergencies.
Fire Safety & Suppression Training covering all onboard fire prevention and firefighting procedures.
Abandon-Ship Drills regularly practiced to ensure all crew members are well-prepared.
Navigation & Communication Systems Training for the captain and deck officers to ensure operational safety.
Diving Crew & Guides Certifications:
All dive guides hold at least valid PADI Divemaster or Instructor certifications and renewed Annually.
Specialized training in liveaboard dive safety, including deep water rescues and strong current diving.
Lost Diver Protocol Training, ensuring quick and efficient search and recovery procedures.
5) Night Watch & Safety Procedures
Weather & Anchor Monitoring to assess sea conditions and potential hazards.
Routine checks of fire alarms, bilge pumps, and generators to detect mechanical or safety issues early.
Guest Safety Supervision during night dives and nighttime activities.
Immediate response to any unusual sounds, smells, or activity on board.
6) Emergency Action Plan (EAP)
Fire & Evacuation:
Immediate activation of fire suppression systems.
Muster stations for all guests with life jackets on.
Dive Tender and Boat Tender are kept on high alert for possible evacuation.
Medical Emergencies:
First aid provided immediately, followed by oxygen therapy if needed.
Emergency evacuation arranged via speedboat or Maldives Coast Guard.
Diver Emergencies:
Lost Diver Protocol: Deployment of surface marker buoys (SMBs), search pattern initiated.
Diver Down Protocol: Immediate safety diver response and emergency oxygen administration.
Strong Currents/Safety Stop Issues: Use of SMBs, guided group dives, and strict buddy system enforcement.
Extreme Weather:
Continuous weather tracking through local alerts, marine forecasts and online local weather updates.
Alternative routes secured for safe navigation in case of severe conditions.
7) Additional Safety Measures
Additional Safety Features That Set Us Apart:
Diver Recall System: Sound-based recall for emergency situations.
All divers are provided with Free Marker Buoys (SMB)'s and Reef Hooks (and briefing provide on both)
All Nitrox certified Divers are provided with Free Nitrox and team encourages PADI Nitrox certification and training. Nitrox compressors are on each Dive Dhoni.
No-Fly Time Enforcement: Mandatory pre-departure safety buffer before flights.
Surveillance Camera in engine room and back of the vessels and monitored in Captains bridge.
Yearly Dry Dock program for all Vessels, Dive Tenders and Dingy's
Satellite Communication Systems for emergency coordination and lost diver scenarios.
After each trip technical teams will board and inspect the Vessels Machinery and fix / repair any issues.
Private Dive Guides Available for Inexperienced Divers encouraged which offers tailored support for safety (additional cost).
Boat Locator Device installed to ensure real-time tracking, enhancing emergency response capability.
Experienced Local Crew: Carpe Diem exclusively employs local captains and dive teams, each with 5 to 10 years of experience with the company. Their deep familiarity with the vessel, dive sites, and local conditions ensures expert navigation, swift emergency response, and a consistently high standard of safety for all guests.
Viber Group System - Provides daily and real-time updates on dive plans, weather conditions, live tracking of dive sites and anchor locations, emergency protocols, Maldives weather, regulatory updates, and alerts. It also facilitates emergency response coordination and addresses boat maintenance issues. All in real time.
ABC-type fire extinguishers are strategically throughout the vessel
Fire blankets in the kitchen and engine room for rapid response to localised fires
Smoke detectors and fire alarms are installed in all cabins, common areas, and operational sections of the vessel
Emergency shut-off valves for fuel and electrical circuits
Dedicated fire suppression systems installed in the engine room, ensuring automated response
Fire pump, hose and nozzle provide ready for immediate use
Navigation Equipment
GPS, Sounder, VHF Radio, Internet, GSM
Satellite Communication Systems for emergency co-ordination and lost diver scenarios
Fire Fighting Equipment
ABC-type fire extinguishers are strategically throughout the vessel
Fire blankets in the kitchen and engine room for rapid response to localised fires
Smoke detectors and fire alarms are installed in all cabins, common areas, and operational sections of the vessel
Emergency shut-off valves for fuel and electrical circuits
Dedicated fire suppression systems installed in the engine room, ensuring automated response
Fire pump, hose and nozzle provide ready for immediate use
Battery Charging
In designated charging stations only
Night Watchman
Night Watch Duties Include:
Hourly patrols of all decks and equipment to ensure security and safety from 22:00pm to 06:00am10
Anchor Drag Alarm - Activated at night for safety monitoring
Diving Dhoni
ABC-type fire extinguishers on board Dive Dhoni. Additionally the dive dhoni is equipped with life jackets and clearly marked. Emergency Oxygen kits (equipped with demand valves and non-rebreather masks) available both on the main vessel and Dhoni for immediate treatment of dive-related injuries.
Carpe Vita Specifications
38m in length and 10m breadth
HP800 engines
3 generators onboard
Built of wood