Day 1 : Arrival Day
Welcome to the Maldives! After you arrive at the airport, you’ll be transferred to the yacht and have time to settle into your floating home for the week ahead. Once onboard, we’ll meet for a welcome drink, followed by a short introduction to get to know the crew and your cruise director, and a quick overview of the journey ahead. Afterward, you can explore the spa and reserve your treatments.
In the evening, enjoy a relaxed welcome dinner as the yacht cruises toward our first destination, then anchors for the night under the stars.
If you’ve never been out on a small yacht far from city lights, you’re in for something special. Out in the middle of the ocean, with almost no light pollution, the night sky comes alive — with thousands of stars and often even the Milky Way clearly visible overhead. It’s one of those quiet, unforgettable moments where you just look up and say, “Wow.”
See below for a video of the yacht:
Included :
- Activities: Yacht transfer; Welcome cocktail and briefing; Welcome dinner
- Meals: Dinner
- Accommodation: Private boutique yacht
NEXT DAY
Day 2 : Rasdhoo Atoll
Early risers can ease into the morning with gentle yoga on deck before an abundant breakfast prepared by the onboard chef.
The day unfolds across some of the atoll’s most vibrant reefs, with time for swimming, snorkeling, or diving. Spa treatments are available throughout the day, from open-air Thai massages on deck to the steam bath and massage room.
After lunch onboard, return to the water to explore the marine life, or simply relax on deck. Later, head to a nearby sandbank for sunset drinks before coming back to the yacht for a Sunday roast dinner under the stars.
Included :
- Transfers: North Malé Atoll – Rasdhoo Atoll
- Activities: Water activities; Sunset sandbank beach bar
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Accommodation: Private boutique yacht
NEXT DAY
Day 3 : North Ari Atoll
Optional morning yoga is offered on deck, followed by a freshly prepared breakfast. Enjoy time to swim and snorkel in Rasdhoo’s pristine waters and a morning dive for scuba divers, or indulge in some spa time before we set sail toward North Ari Atoll — one of the Maldives’ most celebrated regions for clear visibility and plentiful marine life.
After lunch onboard, the afternoon brings more diving & snorkeling, water activities, and beach time on a secluded island. Dinner this evening features a Mexican-themed menu.
Included :
- Transfers: Rasdhoo Atoll – North Ari Atoll
- Activities: Rasdhoo water activities; North Ari Atoll water time; Secluded island beach time
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Accommodation: Private boutique yacht
NEXT DAY
Day 4 : South Ari Atoll
Start your day with sunrise yoga and breakfast onboard. The morning is spent in and out of the water with snorkeling and dives, or just slowing down and enjoying life at sea. During lunch, we sail onward to South Ari Atoll, known for its vast open waters, sweeping sandbanks, and some of the Maldives’ most remarkable marine life — including whale sharks, manta rays, and turtles.
In the afternoon, step ashore and onto a deserted island for a picnic on the powdery white sand and beach time in shallow turquoise waters. As evening approaches, enjoy a sunset yoga session on the beach followed by a moonlit BBQ dinner accompanied by the gentle sound of the waves and barefoot dancing under the stars.
Included :
- Transfers: North Ari Atoll – South Ari Atoll
- Activities: North Ari Atoll water activities; South Ari Atoll water activities; Picnic on a desert island; Sunset yoga on the beach; Moonlit beach BBQ
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Accommodation: Private boutique yacht
NEXT DAY
Day 5 : South Ari Atoll
Included :
- Activities: South Ari water activities; Whale shark search; Sandbank beach time; Night dive or snorkeling
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Accommodation: Private boutique yacht
NEXT DAY
Day 6 : Vaavu Atoll
Optional morning yoga is offered before breakfast. We then navigate toward Vaavu Atoll — the least populated atoll in the Maldives — known for its secluded sandbanks and thriving reef systems. Spend the day exploring vibrant corals and encountering grey reef sharks, manta rays, turtles, and colorful fish.
After lunch, visit a picture-perfect sandbank surrounded by impossibly blue water as far as the eye can see.
In the evening, you’ll have the option to join a night snorkel or night dive — a thrilling experience alongside gentle nurse sharks and stingrays. Dinner tonight features an Italian-themed menu.
Included :
- Transfers: South Ari Atoll – Vaavu Atoll
- Activities: Vaavu water activities; Sanbdbank beach time; Night dive or snorkeling
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Accommodation: Private boutique yacht
NEXT DAY
Day 7 : South Male Atoll
Enjoy one final optional morning yoga session on deck before breakfast. Make the most of your last full day with more time in the water and laid-back beach time around Vaavu. After lunch, visit a local island for a glimpse into everyday Maldivian life beyond the resorts and sandbanks.
We then sail to South Male Atoll. As the sun sets, gather for a final dinner and evening together onboard.
Included :
- Transfers: Vaavu Atoll – South Malé Atoll
- Activities: Vaavu water activities; Beach time; Local island visit; Farewell dinner
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Accommodation: Private boutique yacht
NEXT DAY
Day 8 : Departure Day
This morning, say goodbye to the amazing crew and yacht that helped you navigate the Maldives.
We hope to see you again on another Globe Drifters adventure.
Included :
- Transfers: Pier – Malé airport
- Activities: Boat checkout
- Meals: Breakfast
*Itinerary is subject to change.
NEXT DAY
Maldives 8-Day Cruise
Trip cost
Starting from $6400 USD – Trip cost per person. (See below for inclusions and exclusions.)
*There are 5 room categories at different price points. Please see the ‘Rooms’ tab for more information on each category. All rooms are on a first-come, first-served basis. We cannot hold rooms.
Payment schedule
A deposit of half the trip cost is needed to secure your spot. The other half is due 120 days before the trip start date.
$300 of the deposit is a non-refundable booking fee. You can view our cancellation policy HERE.
Credit or debit card payments are subject to processing fees at booking and are non-refundable under any circumstances. To avoid these fees, you can pay via bank account instead.
Activity Package
This cruise includes your choice of one activity package. You may choose one of the following packages:
Scuba Package: Up to 17 dives, no spa treatments. (Available to PADI-certified divers only.)
Scuba & Spa Package: 6 dives plus 4 classic spa treatments. Suitable for certified divers and for non-divers who wish to complete a PADI certification course at an additional cost (see FAQ).
Spa & Snorkel Package: 8 classic spa treatments and 2 snorkels daily.
Spa packages include a choice of 20 different Classic body and beauty treatments. See Dive Price List for additional dives and certification costs.
Note: All dives and snorkeling sessions are optional, and if you don’t feel like going one day, you can relax on the yacht.
Insurance
Travel insurance is compulsory for this trip due to the increased inherent risk involved with being on a boat. Please see the ‘Insurance‘ tab for more information.
For any trip, including but not limited to a chartered cruise or boat accommodation of more than 3 nights, there are no refunds, credits, or changes once the trip is confirmed. The trip is considered confirmed once the required minimum number of bookings has been reached. We will inform you in writing once the minimum number of bookings has been reached and the trip is confirmed. Once the trip is confirmed, you can then buy trip insurance. We are unable to offer refunds, credits, or make any changes. Please see our Cancellation Policy for more information.
What is included :
- 7 nights accommodation on a private boutique yacht
- All meals
- Yacht transfers (at set times, more info provided after trip is confirmed)
- Choice of scuba/snorkel/spa packages
- Globe Drifters trip host
- 4 GB Wifi per cabin
- Yoga classes daily
- Onboard gym access
- Paddleboards, kayaks, inner tubes access
- Snorkel and dive equipment access – fins, mask, snorkel, weights + belt, standard 12L tanks, reef hooks + SMB (Surface Marker Buoy)
- Unlimited drinking water, coffee, tea (additional drinks can be purchased, see Bar Menu for prices)
What is not included :
- Visas (if needed)
- Trip insurance (required once the trip is confirmed)
- International flights
- Pre-/post-cruise accommodation
- Drinks (except water, coffee, tea)
- Extra spa treatments or dives (outside of package)
- Optional PADI Open Water Diver Course
- Laundry (1 kg = $10 USD)
- Gratuities (around $500 – 600 USD for the large crew onboard)
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While this journey showcases the Maldives’ incredible underwater world — with opportunities for snorkeling and diving — it’s designed for anyone who simply wants to experience the beauty of the Maldives, whether you dive/snorkel or not.
Two dedicated tenders travel with the yacht: one takes guests to the best snorkeling spots, and the other serves the dive sites, so each activity runs smoothly without overlap.
There are also experiences planned for everyone, including visits to beaches and sandbars, plus a variety of water sports. And of course, you’re always free to relax onboard and enjoy the yacht’s amenities — soaking in the endless turquoise views of the Indian Ocean at your own pace.
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No — advanced certification isn’t required. You’ll just need an Open Water certification to participate in the scheduled dives on this trip.
If you’d like more individual attention, private dive guides are available for a more personalized experience, starting from $1,200 for one person or $1,500 for two people for the full trip.
Not certified yet? You can complete your Open Water certification during the trip. (Refer to the ‘Dive Price List’ below.)
If you’re not ready to get certified but still want to experience diving, you can join a PADI Discover Scuba Diving session — a beginner-friendly, non-certification “try dive” at an additional cost in a controlled environment with direct instructor supervision.
For pricing on additional dives and certification options, please see the Dive Price List.
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No, there is not. You have a choice between 3 packages. No matter which package you choose, the price will not increase or decrease.
Your room selection determines the overall cost of your trip.
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Smile policy
We welcome all kinds of travelers, and the group dynamic of each trip is different, but also part of what makes the trip so amazing. You should be able to treat everyone in the group as well as the locals with respect and kindness.
No complainers
Our goal is for everyone to have fun and a trip of a lifetime. On our trips, you should be able to let the small stuff go and exercise flexibility when things do not go according to plan. If you are a traveler who finds fault with everything and complains about the little things, then our trips are not right for you. Come with an open mind and adventurous spirit, and you will have the trip of a lifetime!
Rough waters
The waters are typically smooth during our trips, but Mother Nature is unpredictable, and there may be high winds or rough waters. Ferries and boat rides are subject to rescheduling or cancellation if the weather and water conditions are considered unsafe by the captains and local authorities.
Trip hosts & Cruise director
Your trip hosts and the cruise director will help you have an unforgettable experience and can answer questions and offer suggestions. They will always try to go above and beyond to help you have an amazing trip, but are not your personal assistants. Travelers should exercise a certain level of self-sufficiency and independence on our trips. We also suggest tipping those who went out of their way to help you, especially the boat crew who work tirelessly to make sure you are safe and your trip goes smoothly.
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This trip is a low level of physical difficulty.
The boat has 3 narrow flights of stairs. You must be able to walk up and down the stairs unassisted.
We will be getting on and off smaller boats many times daily for scuba diving, snorkeling, and visiting islands and sandbanks. If you feel you cannot do this, it is best to email us to see if this trip is right for you.
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This trip will consist of a maximum of 20 travelers. We prefer small boat cruises because, based on our experience, guests on large cruise ships can visit smaller, more far-flung destinations, which typically are without the hordes of tourists.
A smaller boat also means that participants will receive more personal treatment from the hosts and crew who can more thoroughly attend to the needs of each person. The crew on this boat consists of approximately 30 staff members, so the ratio of passengers to crew is extremely high.
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Most of our travelers are in their late 30s to late 60s/early 70s and most are solo travelers. Generally, we get a good mix of diverse people and every trip is unique thanks to the group dynamic.
The minimum age on our trips is 18.
Everyone is welcome on our trips; male/female, LGBTQIA+/straight, and solos/couples.
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Currently, passport holders from most countries do not need a visa in advance for stays in the Maldives of up to 30 days.
Please check with your nearest embassy or consulate for information on or questions about travel to the Maldives.
You may also be required to show proof of exit in the form of a departure flight ticket.
As a general rule, passports should have at least six months of validity when traveling internationally. Most countries will not permit a traveler to enter their country unless the passport is set to expire at least six months after the final day of travel.
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All activities and meals on this trip are included.
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Airport pick-up and drop-off are included from Malé airport or the pre-cruise hotel on arrival and departure days at set times. We will email you more information regarding this after the trip is confirmed.
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The official currency of the Maldives is the Maldivian Rufiyaa (MVR), but USD are widely accepted across the Maldives. On our yacht, USD, EUR, and the local currency (MVR) are accepted.
Find out the live mid-market rate for your currency by using a currency converter online.
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Credit and debit cards are widely accepted at the resorts in the Maldives.
Payment for any extras and tips on the yacht can be done in cash (local currency, USD, and euros are accepted) or card (Visa, MasterCard, and Amex are accepted). There is a 4% surcharge for card payments.
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The Maldives does not have a strong tipping culture. In restaurants, taxis, and for personal services, all tips are at your discretion. If you do decide to tip, around 10-20% of the total bill is appreciated. Tipping is usually cash only.
Boat crew: $500 – $600 USD (or euro equivalent) split among all 30 crew members in cash or card at the end of your trip. If you feel a certain crew member went above and beyond, you are welcome to tip him/her more in person.
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As most components of your trip have been prepaid, you will only need money for extras such as beverages, extra spa treatments, or extra dives. We suggest having access to about $1,000 USD for tips and extras on a card or in cash.
Alcohol and specialty beverages are available at the bar. (See the bar menu.)
Customize with add-on dives & spa treatments: See Dive Price List // See Spa Price List
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Most phones work in the Maldives and when using your phone overseas, be sure to check with your provider to get informed about data and call roaming prices. When you land in the Maldives, you will usually get a message from your provider that will give you the price of data, calls, and texts in that country. See the example below:
Welcome to the Maldives! Your plan gives you unlimited data at up to 2G speeds and texts at no extra cost. Calls at 20 cents/min. Want our fastest data and unlimited calls? Get an International Pass for just $5/day.
You may consider contacting your service provider to learn about what kind of international plans they offer for calls, texts, and data. You may also consider getting a local SIM card to easily stay connected.
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The boat has free Wifi at 4GB speed, but it may be slow, spotty, or absent at times (especially when moving to a new location on open water).
You can upgrade your wifi speed for an additional cost. See the price list
HERE.
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On our yacht and the hotels in the Maldives have outlets that fit UK flat prong plugs (see picture below) and use 230V and 50Hz. Most travelers will need converters and/or adapters for electronic devices.
The boat provides one adapter per room, but if you have multiple electronics, it is best to bring additional adapters.
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Even if you travel in the summertime, it’s advisable to bring warm clothes to layer for cooler evenings on the boat.
Below are a few things that we suggest bringing to make your trip more comfortable:
- Lightweight clothes that dry quickly
- Sunglasses/hat
- Sunscreen (biodegradable if possible)
- Swimsuits (we recommend at least 2)
- Water shoes (for pebble/rocky beaches)
- Rash guard (Wetsuits will be provided, but snorkelers might be more comfortable swimming in their own rashguard)
- Windbreaker or light jacket
- Flashlight
- Flip flops/sandals
- Seasickness medication (if needed)
- Prescription/over-the-counter medication (if needed)
- Refillable water bottle
- Adapters, converters, chargers, cables for electronics (bring 2 or more just in case!)
- Shampoo, soap, conditioner
- Snorkel/Scuba equipment (the boat will provide, but you can bring your own)
- Underwater camera
Each cabin will have a hairdryer. Beach towels are also provided. No need to bring any fancy shoes as shoes are not allowed on the boat, so keep this in mind when packing. It’s best to bring some flip flops and water shoes.
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Laundry service is available onboard and takes less than 24 hours to complete.
See the price list HERE.
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Breakfast will be served daily and is buffet-style. Tea and coffee will also be served at breakfast and will be available all day at the coffee and cake station.
Daily yoga sessions are offered on the boat by the dedicated wellness coach.
You will also have free access to the mini gym and jacuzzi onboard.
The boat provides free use of paddleboards, kayaks as well as euipment for snorkeling, diving, and fishing.
Daily cleaning of your cabin is also included.
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Yes, we can. When booking your spot, please notify us of your specific requests, such as gluten-free, vegetarian, vegan, etc. Alternative options will always be possible throughout the trip if we are notified prior to the trip.
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Please review the CDC Health Information for Travelers Website before traveling to the Maldives to see any recommended vaccinations.
If you suffer from pre-existing medical conditions or are concerned about what vaccinations may be right for you, we strongly advise that you visit a medical professional or your personal physician before your trip.
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We offer private trips to the Maldives depending on the size of the group and availability.
Flights
Your arrival and departure airport is Velana International Airport (VIA) in Malé.
*Please do not book any flights until you receive a confirmation email from us. You will receive a confirmation email within 24 – 48 hours of booking.
We recommend arriving at least 1 day early in case of any potential travel delays. We will email you about the designated pre-cruise hotel after the trip is confirmed.
On Day 1, a transfer is included from Malé airport or the pre-tour hotel to the yacht. We will provide you with more details after your booking.
Visa
Currently, passport holders from most countries do not need a visa in advance for stays in the Maldives of up to 30 days.
Please check with your nearest embassy or consulate for information on or questions about travel to the Maldives.
You may also be required to show proof of exit in the form of a departure flight ticket.
As a general rule, passports should have at least six months of validity when traveling internationally. Most countries will not permit a traveler to enter their country unless the passport is set to expire at least six months after the final day of travel.
Your home for the week is a 164-foot boutique yacht with four decks and just 16 spacious cabins. It features comfortable indoor and outdoor living areas, a panoramic sundeck, a jacuzzi, a fully equipped gym, a dedicated yoga deck, and an open-air dining terrace for memorable meals under the stars. Inside, you’ll find an elegant reception area, a stylish lounge and bar, a fine-dining restaurant, and a tranquil onboard spa offering indulgent massage and beauty treatments.
Unwind at the Asian-style spa onboard, a serene space to recharge between dives and excursions. Spanning two decks, the spa includes multiple treatment rooms and generous relaxation areas, so you can enjoy treatments without long waits. Enjoy a choice of more than 20 types of spa treatments, all included in your trip cost. Facilities consist of four treatment rooms, including a private deck for open-air Thai massage or meditation and a shaded lounge for relaxation.
Our yacht is staffed by approximately 30 crew members serving just 20 Globe Drifter guests. This exceptional staff-to-guest ratio allows for highly personalized, attentive service throughout the journey. The crew includes certified dive/snorkel guides, more than six spa therapists, a yoga instructor, and skilled chefs delivering refined cuisine — ensuring every aspect of your experience is handled with care and expertise.
For more details, including photos and descriptions of the cabins, please visit the ‘Rooms’ tab. You can also see more about the yacht on its Instagram profile.
The yacht offers 16 beautifully-appointed suites — 8 suites located on the main deck and 8 on the lower deck. Suites are categorized by onboard location and size, ranging from 140 to 215 square feet.
Each suite also includes a safety box, a hairdryer, and a spa robe. Beach towels are also provided throughout your stay.
Main Deck Suites
Manta Suites (Shared) • Twin Beds
There are 4 Manta Suites located on the main deck. These are the largest and only shared suites onboard, featuring panoramic windows with ocean views. Each suite can be configured with either two twin beds or one queen-sized bed. These suites are each 215 square feet.
Price: $6,400 per person — These suites are reserved for guests sharing a room.
Dolphin Suites • 1 Queen Bed
There are 3 Dolphin Suites located on the main deck. These suites have seating areas and each measures 172 square feet.
Price: $8,300 — No single supplement; includes private, single occupancy of the suite.
Deluxe Manta Suites• 1 Queen Bed
There is 1 Deluxe Manta Suite located on the main deck. This is the largest single-occupancy suite onboard, featuring a panoramic window with ocean views. This suite is 215 square feet.
Price: $8,600 — No single supplement; includes private, single occupancy of the suite.
Lower Deck Suites & Cabins
Sea Star Cabins • 1 Queen Bed
There are 7 Sea Star Cabins located on the ship’s lower deck. All cabins have 2 opening porthole windows. Each cabin is 140 square feet.
Price: $7,500 — No single supplement; includes private, single occupancy of the cabin.
Cowrie Suite • 1 Queen Bed
There is 1 Cowrie Suite located on the ship’s lower deck. This suite has a sofa bed, 4 opening porthole windows, and the largest ensuite shower on board. This cabin is 172 square feet.
Price: $7,800 — No single supplement; includes private, single occupancy of the suite.
Travel insurance is compulsory for this trip* due to the increased, inherent risk involved with being on a boat. We work with Travelex, which offers travel protection plans to help protect you and your travel investment against the unexpected. Travel protection plans include coverage for trip cancellation, trip interruption, emergency medical, emergency evacuation/repatriation, trip delay, baggage delay, and more. Otherwise, you are welcome to shop around online for a provider and policy that best suits your needs.
For more information on the recommended plans or to enroll, click on the image below or contact Travelex Insurance Services at 800-228-9792. Globe Drifters’ reference location number is 09-0984.
The product descriptions provided here are only brief summaries. The full coverage terms and details, including limitations and exclusions, are contained in the insurance policy. Travelex CA Agency License #0D10209. All products listed are underwritten by, Berkshire Hathaway Specialty Insurance Company, NAIC #22276. 11.17 E7N
*NOTE: For any trip, including but not limited to a chartered cruise or boat accommodation of more than 3 nights, there are no refunds once the trip is confirmed. The trip is considered confirmed once the required minimum number of bookings has been met. We will inform you in writing once the minimum number of bookings has been reached and the trip is confirmed. Once confirmed, we are unable to offer refunds, credits, or make any changes.
Travel insurance is compulsory for certain trips due to the nature of the trip and the increased, inherent risk involved in that trip. We will inform you in writing if a trip requires travel insurance prior to and/or at the time of booking. You must purchase travel insurance within 30 days or less of us confirming the trip. If a trip requires travel insurance, you must be, at a minimum, covered for medical expenses including emergency repatriation and trip cancellation/interruption. We recommend purchasing a policy that covers COVID-19, personal liability, curtailment, and loss of luggage or personal effects. For these trips, you will not be permitted to join the group unless evidence of travel insurance has been submitted to GDI within 30 days of the trip confirmation.
