Maldives Cruise: Indian Ocean Dhoni Life - 7 Days

Frequently asked questions

• What type of accommodation is provided on this tour?

  Accommodation is provided on a traditional dhoni boat for 6 nights.

• What should I know about the rooming on the dhoni boat?

  The dhoni boat has tight spaces; you will be sharing a small room with a fellow passenger or travel partner and sharing all onboard facilities. Rooming is on a first-come, first-serve basis, and specific cabins cannot be guaranteed. The skipper also shares the ship's quarters and amenities.

• What meals are included during the tour?

  The tour includes 6 breakfasts, 6 lunches, and 6 dinners.

• What kind of food can I expect on board, and can dietary needs be accommodated?

  Food is a major part of this sailing adventure, with many home-cooked meals lovingly prepared by the on-board chef. Portions are generous and will include seafood, typical dishes, and occasional breakfast fry-ups. Dietary needs can usually be accommodated; please inquire in advance.

• What drinks are available on the boat, and what payment methods are accepted?

  Drinking water is provided. Beer, wine, and soft drinks are available for purchase onboard. We accept US Dollars, Euro, Visa cards, MasterCard, and American Express, with a 5% additional charge for credit card payments.

• What activities are included in this tour?

  Included activities are a Maldives Plastic Clean Up, arrival transfer, Fulidhoo Island visit and Bodu Beru performance, Felidhu Island visit, Bodu Mora Island visit, snorkelling equipment, and beach time in the Maldives.

• Is snorkelling equipment provided, and do I need to confirm my size?

  Masks and snorkels will be provided onboard the boat, though you can bring your own. Please provide your shoe/fin size at the time of booking to ensure proper sized gear is available for you.

• What is the age range for this tour?

  This tour is designed for travellers between 18 and 39 years old.

• What is the maximum group size for this tour?

  The maximum group size for this tour is 6 people.

• What is the physical rating of this tour?

  The tour has a physical rating of 3.

• How are solo travellers accommodated on this tour?

  Solo travellers are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex, as group trips are designed for shared accommodation and do not involve a single supplement.

• Who will be leading the tour?

  The tour is accompanied by a Skipper/CEO (Chief Experience Officer) and crew. The CEO provides information on places, suggestions for activities, and local recommendations.

• What currency is accepted in the Maldives and on the boat?

  USD and EUR are accepted for your beverage bill at the end of the tour, and USD is accepted on the islands for souvenirs. Maldivian Rufiyaa (MVR) are not accepted onboard. It is recommended to bring new and/or good condition USD notes in denominations lower than 100 USD.

• Are there ATMs available outside of Malé?

  There are no ATMs outside of Malé, so travellers should ensure they bring sufficient funds.

• Is an emergency fund recommended?

  Yes, it is recommended to have access to at least an additional USD $200 (or equivalent) as an 'emergency' fund for unforeseen circumstances.

• Are there any local dress codes to be aware of when visiting islands?

  Dress standards are conservative. When off the boat and on islands, modest clothing that covers shoulders and knee-length shorts/skirts is strongly recommended. Singlets and tank tops are not acceptable. One-piece bathing suits are recommended, and bikinis and topless sunbathing are unacceptable.

• What should I know if my tour coincides with Ramadan?

  If the tour falls during Ramadan, there may be some limitations to services and disruptions. It is very important to display increased cultural sensitivity by wearing loose-fitting clothes that cover knees and shoulders, and trying to avoid eating, drinking, or smoking in public out of respect.

• What are the health recommendations for this trip?

  You should consult your travel doctor for up-to-date medical information and any required inoculations well before departure. It's recommended to carry a First Aid kit and hand sanitizers/antibacterial wipes, as medical facilities may be remote.

• Is tipping customary in the Maldives, and what is the guideline for the CEO and crew?

  Tipping service providers (e.g., waiters at 10%) is customary. At the end of your tour, if you felt your CEO and crew did an outstanding job, a guideline of USD10-15 per CEO/crew member per week (or USD50-75 total) is recommended.