Maldives - Dhoni Cruise (9 days)
Contact a Specialist Consultant Now!

Maldives - Dhoni Cruise (9 days)

Cruise amongst myriad remote atolls of the Maldives & learn about island life. Discover a fascinating underwater world, snorkelling in the warm ocean and enjoy the delicious catch of the day!

Life on the Dhoni:Arriving on Hulule 'airport island', we transfer directly to our Maldivian 'dhoni' and set sail. The traditional dhoni is thought to have derived from the Arab dhow and our vessels have been converted into live-aboard cruise boats with couchette accommodation and a saloon area inside, plus plenty of room on deck both in the sun and shade for relaxing and watching the world go by. Meals on board tend to be planned around the catch of the day - a treat for those that enjoy seafood!

Cruising the Atolls:Leaving the main North Male Atoll behind, we aim to head through South Male and Felidhoo Atolls, stopping in small harbours or at uninhabited islands along the way. Although our route is ultimately governed by the weather, we plan to reach Meemu (Mulaku) Atoll in the south, a group of islands with very few resorts, where we visit small fishing villages. There will be daily opportunities for swimming and snorkelling in the clear blue waters to see the varied and vibrant marine life. At the end of our journey we plan to stop off at Male the capital; crammed onto an island 1.8 sq km in area, it houses a fifth of the total population. We walk around the main sights including the Grand Friday Mosque, Islamic centre and the local markets, which are busy with the barter of islanders haggling for goods.

  • Day 1: Depart home
  • Day 2: Arrive Male; transfer to dhoni and set sail
  • Day 3: Cruise to Ambaraa Island in Felidhoo Atoll
  • Day 4: Cruise to Meemu Atoll
  • Day 5: Visit Dhiggaru village, Meemu Atoll
  • Day 6: Cruise to Felidhoo; visit traditional village
  • Day 7: Cruise to Emboodhoo Finolhu Lagoon
  • Day 8: Cruise back through South Male Atoll to Male; afternoon walking tour.
  • Day 9: Fly home

*** Please note: The actual itinerary for this trip is dependent on weather conditions and may vary with the seasons. Any alternative itinerary will include a similar mix of sights and activities.

Operated by Explore Worldwide (MC)

Departures: August to April

  • Contact us for more information, current costs and to make a booking on this small group adventure