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SAILING IN THE MALDIVES

8 Days

Experience the Maldives like never before aboard a luxury Dhoni yacht, sailing through turquoise lagoons, snorkeling vibrant reefs, exploring untouched islands, and immersing yourself in authentic local culture — far beyond the typical resort stay.

Bookings close 30 days before departure

  • 15
  • 1 - 12
  • Maldives
  • Private Trips, Scheduled departures
  • Easy
  • Male, Maldives
  • Male, Maldives
  • English
  • 21
  • Male Int. Airport, counter E2 outside of the arrivals terminal
  • 12

Overview

Take a trip to paradise and climb aboard a traditional dhoni boat for a sailing trip through the Maldives.

On this eight-day getaway, you’ll spend your days sailing, swimming and snorkelling among colourful corals, white-sand beaches, mangroves and tropical fish. Maybe see dolphins, turtles, manta rays and nurse sharks and watch the gorgeous sunsets to end each day of bliss.

Have tea and locally made sweets with the locals on tiny islands, be treated to a traditional music and dance performance after dinner on the beach and learn how to make Madivian cuisine with a cooking demonstration and breakfast.

With a local crew and leader by your side, you’ll be sure to see all the best bits of island living!

Boat specifications and features: Length 21.6m, Width 6.5m

  • Bar
  • Dining Area
  • Library
  • Sun Deck
  • Air Conditioning
  • Hot water showers
  • Television
  • VCD/DVD Player
  • Music Player

HIGHLIGHTS

  • Soak up the beauty of bright blue waters, white sands, palm trees and marine life with one full week cruising aboard a private, traditional dhoni in the Maldives.
  • Swim and snorkel every day with tropical fish by your side – you might even be lucky enough to swim with manta rays, stingrays, triggerfish, turtles, reef sharks and nurse sharks – the Maldives is home to the biggest population in the world!
  • Snorkel at Biyaadhoo Reef to see the resident green turtles and schools of red-tooth triggerfish and bannerfish. Explore the colourful coral garden near Maafushi, with its beautiful drop off full of tabletop corals and oriental sweetlips.
  • Be treated to fresh, local Maldivian cuisine with a cooking demonstration where you’ll learn how to make traditional mas huni and Maldivian tuna curry. Then, have tea at a small, locally owned cafe.
  • Enjoy a beachside dinner with traditional East African Bodu Beruand Langiri folk music, and dance with the locals as the sun goes down, moving to the beat of the drums.

Itinerary

  • Day
    01

    Male to Rihivelli Lagoon

    Assalaa mu alaikum! Welcome to the Maldives. When you arrive in Male at the airport, you’ll be met at 12 pm by a local representative.

    You’ll then take a small boat to the marina where your dhoni (traditional sailing boat) will be waiting for you. There will be a safety briefing onboard before you set sail. Settle into your cabins, meet your small crew and start sailing, watching the expanse of the Indian Ocean as you go.

    Stop for a swim near a sandbank in warm waters between 27 and 30 degrees Celsius.

    Tonight, you’ll have your first night aboard the boat in Rihiveli Lagoon, falling asleep to the gentle rocking of the boat under a clear sky full of stars.

    Sailing time: Approximately 3 hours

  • Day
    02

    Rihivelli Lagoon - Kudi Boli / Kuna Vashi (Vaavu Atoll)

    Wake up in the lagoon this morning, surrounded by clear, light blue waters – you might even be lucky enough to see your first dolphins of the adventure!

    Maybe hop straight in the calm waters for a morning swim, then sail through the lagoons of Vaavu Atoll, soaking up the paradisical scenery on your way to Khudi Boli.

    When you arrive, take to the water for a snorkel among the large expanses of coral that shelter hundreds of shimmering fish.

    Back on the boat, maybe open one of the books in the library to learn more about the varieties and species here.

    If you like fishing, maybe go with the captain on the motor dinghy and catch some fresh fish for tonight’s dinner on board.

    Sailing time: Approximately 4.5 to 5 hours

  • Day
    03

    Kudi Boli / Kuna Vashi - Kuda Anbaraa - Ruhhurihuraa (South Vaavu Atoll)

    Sail southwest of the Atoll today, for a full day of snorkelling around one of the small untouched islands, Ruh Hurihuraa.

    Dive into the warm waters and discover some of the most beautiful bottoms and drop-offs of the island. If the weather’s good, you’ll spend the night close to the island.

    Otherwise, at the end of the afternoon, you’ll sail for the lagoon of Bodu Mora – an uninhabited island reserved for oceanographic scientists.

    Sailing time: Approximately 4.5 to 5 hours

  • Day
    04

    Bodumohoraa – Keyodhoo Shipwreck - Hulhidhoo

    Cast your sights northeast today, sailing towards the Keyodhoo Shipwreck – resting on a relatively shallow lagoon, this ship’s mast rises just above the water and is a popular spot in the Maldives for snorkelling.

    This morning is all about exploring the ship, full of life with its colourful corals and reef fish.

    After lunch aboard, you’ll sail to the island of Hulidhoo, which is covered with coconut trees and mangroves.

    Head out for your second snorkel of the day, as the drop-offs here promise a beautiful aquatic landscape.

    Continue to Alimathaa and watch the sunset over the lagoon tonight.

    Sailing time: Approximately 4.5 to 5 hours

  • Day
    05

    Alimatha - Coral Garden (Vaavu Atoll) - Fulidhoo

    The Maldives is home to one of the largest nurse shark populations and it’s only growing in numbers.

    This morning, go snorkelling and maybe even spot some reef sharks and manta rays, too! After, sail to a coral garden that’s filled with life and snorkel among sea anemones and clown fish.

    Then, set sail to Fulidhoo – famous for the construction of wooden boats. Make your first journey to land for a walk through the local village, learning about the local customs and way of life on the island.

    Later, take part in a hedhikaa (Maldivian treats) experience at a locally owned cafe. Enjoy some traditional homemade snacks served with black tea and chat with the locals.

    Tonight, you’ll have dinner on the beach accompanied by a performance of Bodu Beru (translating to ‘big drums’) and Langiri folk music – a form of traditional music centred around percussion with roots from East Africa. This is the most popular traditional music in the Maldives, and you can join in with the locals to learn a few traditional dance moves!

    Sailing time: Approximately 4.5 to 5 hours

  • Day
    06

    Fulidhoo Village - Vilivaru – Biyaadhoo – Coral Garden Guraidhoo Island

    If luck is shining on you today, you’ll see manta rays, triggerfish and turtles!

    Head to Biyaadhoo’s reef and swim with the green turtles and schools of red tooth trigger fish and banner fish. Explore the underwater coral garden near Maafushi, where a beautiful drop off showcases tabletop coral and oriental sweetlips.

    After an afternoon full of marine wildlife, you’ll carry on to the Guraidhoo Island’s lagoon. When you arrive, touch the sand and head to the village, where you’ll share a cup of tea at a small, locally owned café.

    Tuck into some freshly made savouries and sweets served with black tea or coffee.

    Sailing time: Approximately 4.5 to 5 hours

  • Day
    07

    Guraidhoo Island - Male

    For breakfast this morning, head back to the village of Guraidhoo Island for a short cooking demonstration on Maldivian cuisine.

    Learn how to make traditional mas huni (a typical Maldivian breakfast with tuna, onion, coconut and chili) and tuna curry. Then, sit down to enjoy these traditional dishes for breakfast, usually served with freshly baked roshi flatbread and sweetened hot tea. You’ll then set out for a morning of snorkelling through corals and multi-coloured fish.

    Later, sail back to the capital of Male – only 2.5 km long and 1.5 km wide, this city can easily be explored on foot. When you arrive, you’ll visit the mosque, the presidential palace and the bazaar.

    End at the fish market and the fruit and vegetable market and maybe taste some local specialties like dried fish, huvadhoo bondi (local sweets) and exotic fruits.

    Tonight, toast to an amazing sailing adventure with your group!

    Sailing time: Approximately 4.5 to 5 hours

  • Day
    08

    Male

    This morning, transfer to the airport in Male and say goodbye to your home for the last week. With no further activities planned, your sailing adventure comes to an end after breakfast this morning. If you’d like to extend your stay, just speak to your booking agent ahead of time.

    You will be transferred back to the international airport in Male at 9am. Please take this into consideration if booking onwards flights on this day.

Join our fixed departure trip where you will travel with a small group of like minded people!

  • Sunday August 23, 2026
    Sunday August 30, 2026
  • Sunday September 13, 2026
    Sunday September 20, 2026
  • Sunday September 27, 2026
    Sunday October 4, 2026
  • Sunday October 11, 2026
    Sunday October 18, 2026
  • Sunday March 14, 2027
    Sunday March 21, 2027
  • Sunday May 23, 2027
    Sunday May 30, 2027
  • Sunday July 11, 2027
    Sunday July 18, 2027
  • Sunday August 15, 2027
    Sunday August 22, 2027
  • Sunday September 26, 2027
    Sunday October 3, 2027
  • Sunday December 19, 2027
    Sunday December 26, 2027
See all departures at SAILING IN THE MALDIVES

Inclusions

  • Accommodation
  • All transport mentioned
  • Guides/ Staff/ Crew
  • All activities mentioned
  • Meals mentioned
  • Entry fees

Exclusions

  • Flights
  • Visa (if required)
  • Travel insurance (It is your responsibility to obtain a travel insurance which is mandatory to join our trips)
  • Personal belongings insurance
  • Meals except those mentioned in the itinerary

IMPORTANT NOTES:

IMPORTANT NOTES:
Min. group size: 1 pax / Max. group size: 12 pax
Gender group: mixed

Arrival: Your trip starts at 12pm at Male International airport. Please ensure your flight lands at least 90 minutes prior to 12pm on that day. If not possible, please book a flight which lands the day before. Should you wish us to book you a pre-night hotel room, contact us. Upon arrival, after clearing customs, exit the arrivals terminal and go to counter number E2 (located outside of the arrivals terminal) where you will meet your leader. You’ll then take a small boat to the marina where your dhoni (traditional sailing boat) will be waiting for you.

Departure: You will be transferred to the airport at 9 am. Please book flight departing after 11 am.
A good swimming ability is essential on this trip to enjoy all activities.

Accommodation:
Automatically shared in double occupancy. If you book with an even number of guests, you will be sharing the room with your travel companion. If you book solo, you will share with another guest (might be of opposite gender).
All cabins have twin bunk beds and will have ensuite bathrooms, are on the lower deck. It’s recommended that you pack light, as cabins are cosy.
Rooms are allocated on arrival by our skipper according to group composition, which means it is not possible to reserve or guarantee any specific berth or cabin.
All cabins will experience a light engine noise when the ship is moving (and occasionally when you drop anchor). It’s probably worth packing earplugs if you’re a light sleeper.
 
Travel insurance is mandatory for all our travellers and must be taken out within a reasonable time after booking. It is not included in the price of the trip. Your travel insurance must provide cover against personal accident, death, medical expenses and emergency repatriation with a recommended minimum coverage of US$200,000 for each of the categories of cover. We also strongly recommend it covers cancellation, curtailment, personal liability and loss of luggage and personal effects. You must provide your travel insurance policy number and the insurance company's 24-hour emergency contact number on the first day of your trip; you will not be able to join the trip without these details. If you have travel insurance connected to your credit card or bank account please ensure you have details of the participating insurer, the insurance policy number and emergency contact number with you rather than the bank's name and credit card details.

PRICES

Prices start from

1 person: 1,079 OMR

2 people: 1,069 OMR per person

3 people and more: 1,059 OMR per person

Kindly refer to the specific dates for the exact rates.

Cancellation policy:

  • Up to 60 days prior to departure: the booking is 100% refundable except for the 0.3% non-refundable booking fee
  • Between 59 days to 31 days prior to departure: the booking is 50% refundable except for the 0.3% non-refundable booking fee
  • Between 30 days and 1 day as well as no show: the booking is 100% non-refundable.

FLIGHT INFO

Direct flights from GCC countries to the Maldives:

  • Doha (Qatar) → Malé – Qatar Airways
  • Manama (Bahrain) → Malé – Gulf Air
  • Sharjah (UAE) → Malé – Air Arabia
  • Dubai (DXB, UAE) → Malé – Emirates
  • Dubai (DXB, UAE) → Malé – flydubai
  • Riyadh (KSA) → Malé – Saudia
  • Riyadh (KSA) → Malé – ZanAir
  • Jeddah (KSA) → Malé – Saudia

VISA INFO

  • No pre‑arrival visa needed: GCC citizens (Saudi, UAE, Qatar, Oman, Bahrain, Kuwait) receive a tourist visa on arrival.
  • Tourist visa: Free 30-day visa issued at the airport.
  • Basic entry requirements:
    • Valid passport (minimum 1 month, airlines prefer 6+ months)
    • Confirmed return or onward ticket
    • Proof of accommodation or sufficient funds for stay

FAQs

What makes this trip special?

This is more than a cruise — it’s an immersive journey through the Maldives’ hidden lagoons, vibrant coral reefs, and untouched islands, blending marine adventure with local culture.

What type of boat will we stay on?

You’ll stay on a traditional yet luxurious Dhoni sailing boat, offering cozy cabins, panoramic decks, and personalized service from a small, dedicated crew.

What is included in the itinerary?

All breakfasts, lunches, and dinners are included, along with guided snorkeling, village visits, cultural experiences, and marine wildlife excursions throughout the week.

Do I need any special gear or clothing?

Light, breathable clothing, swimwear, sun protection, and reef-safe sunscreen are essential. The crew will advise on snorkeling gear and other equipment needed on board.

What kind of wildlife can I expect to see?

Dolphins, manta rays, green turtles, nurse and reef sharks, tropical fish, and colorful coral reefs are highlights, with frequent opportunities to swim alongside these magnificent creatures.

How physically demanding is the trip?

Moderate activity is required for swimming, snorkeling, and exploring islands. Shore landings involve walking on soft sand or small jetties, accessible for most travelers.

What happens if the weather affects sailing or excursions?

The itinerary may be adjusted to ensure safety and comfort. Your crew will provide alternative routes or activities while maintaining the spirit of the adventure.

TRICORN TRAVELS Travel Creatively!

Whatsapp: +968 7670 4300
Oman

info@tricorn-travels.com

See it online https://tricorn-travels.com/trip/sailing-in-the-maldives/