Route map
Arrive at the airport for your overnight flight to Malé via Colombo.
"We have total confidence in this company, and have recommended to many."
- VeraEmbark on a unique and unforgettable cruise exploring the best of the Maldives aboard the three-star MV Yasawa Princess. The Maldives is one of the lowest countries in the world, with coralline beaches at around four feet (1.2 metres) above sea level and its highest natural point measuring just under eight feet (2.4 metres). What makes these numerous tiny islands so special is that they’re actually the crowns of coral reefs and submerged volcanic mountains – in fact, just 1% of the Maldives is land-based, so one of the best ways to explore this archipelago is by boat. Its 1,192 coral islands are grouped in a double chain of 26 atolls, comprising ring-shaped coral reefs and sand bars. Only 200 of the islands are inhabited, which means there are many idyllic desert islands awaiting your fresh footprints on their unblemished shores.
From the mid-16th century, the region came under the influence of European colonial powers, from the Portuguese to the Dutch, with the Maldives becoming a British protectorate in 1887 until 1965.
Traditional Maldivian cuisine, which is influenced by neighbouring India and Sri Lanka, offers a tantalising variety of flavours. Local menus typically feature freshly caught fish and all manner of ingredients obtained from coconuts, such as its refreshing water, grated flesh and creamy milk – an essential element of many Maldivian curries and drinks. For breakfast, mas huni – grated coconut mixed with finely chopped tuna, onion and chilli – is often served with roshi, Maldivian flatbread similar to chapati. Western food will also be available on your ship if you want a taste of home.
Your days are filled with carefree pleasures, such as relaxing on pearly white-sand beaches in the shade of natural tropical vegetation, taking a dip in crystal waters of sparkling azure hues, and gazing at the glittering night sky. There are plenty of opportunities to snorkel beneath the warm waters of the Indian Ocean – your swimming pool for two weeks – and immerse yourself in remarkable underwater worlds. The average sea temperature ranges from 20 - 30 degrees. Blessed with natural reefs, the Maldives is home to fascinating marine life, from colourful tropical fish to whale sharks, manta rays and turtles. So kick off your shoes, forget the news, relax, rejuvenate and enjoy the welcoming hospitality of this unique island nation.
Route map
Arrive at the airport for your overnight flight to Malé via Colombo.
MV Yasawa Princess
On arrival you’ll be taken by dhoni (traditional Maldivian wooden boat) to the Yasawa Princess, your charming home for the next two weeks, where the friendly crew will help you check into your comfortable cabin. During this evening’s informal welcome meeting, you’ll be briefed on the cruise itinerary, meet crew members and the other guests on board. Enjoy your complimentary pre-dinner cocktail as you catch the first of many spectacular sunsets over the Indian Ocean.
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Drinks package & snorkelling equipment hire on the Maldives cruise - from £238 per person
This includes all soft drinks, house wines by the glass, local beer, cocktail of the day (during happy hour) and local-branded spirits from midday daily. All international-brand/premium-brand drinks/spirits, non-house wines, sparkling wine, champagne are charged extra
Also included are a mask, snorkel and fins to use throughout the cruise.
Please contact us to book this package.
Please note that the MV Yasawa Princess will be anchored away from the shore, and transport to the ship will be by dhoni boat. This will take approximately 20 minutes. All transfer times listed here are approximate, and dependent on traffic and sea conditions. If you have a question regarding transfer times please don't hesitate to contact us.
Airport | Ship | Transfer time | |
---|---|---|---|
Malé International Airport | MV Yasawa Princess | 30 mins |
We care deeply about our customers and the holiday experience they have. We’re passionate about travel and we want all aspects to be perfect, with personal service and attention at every step of the way. Our world-class holidays include everything you need, with no detail overlooked. We carefully curate every aspect of your trip based on our own first-hand experience and expertise built up over decades in the travel industry.
The price of this holiday is per person, based on two people sharing a lower main-deck cabin and includes:
We guarantee there are never any hidden costs or surcharges, inflated prices or artificial discounts.