Yacht charter Maldives

Last updated on September 15, 2023

Why go to the Maldives?

• Communion with nature: true jewels of the Indian Ocean scattered to the southwest of Sri Lanka, its 1190 prodigious islands are lands of escape where nature is pure poetry and the tourist offers are simply royal.
• Scuba diving and surfing: considered one of the world's best scuba diving destinations, this magnificent archipelago also promises delightful moments for cruise passengers sailing from island to island to discover its magical and unspoiled places.Surfing enthusiasts will also be in their element when they try out the spots in Gaafu Dhaalu, as well as those in the North Malé and South Malé atolls.
• Turquoise blue lagoons: a constellation of coral atolls hauled in by heavenly beaches, the Maldives are an archipelago that will amaze sea lovers. You will have the opportunity to contemplate whales, dolphins and multicolored fish in transparent waters.

Types of boats to rent in the Maldives

Depending on your budget and your sailing plans, there are different types of boats available:

• Monohull sailboat charter: this is the most affordable option and is best suited to experienced sailors! The size of this type of boat will make it easier for you to access coves and anchorages. The sensations of sailing are also unique to monohulls with heeling over.
• Catamaran charter: for those looking for comfort and space. The catamaran offers greater stability and more living space on board. It has spacious cabins. It is the ideal option if your budget allows and if you want to have a relaxing vacation. This type of boat is suitable for sailing in the shallow waters of the Maldivian lagoons and for easy access to beaches and reefs.
• Sailboat charter or gulet charter: these traditional wooden boats have an authentic charm and an elegant sailing trim. They offer a rather unique sailing experience and superb comfort, with several cabins and a large living space.
• Yacht charter: these luxury boats offer optimal comfort, personalized service and great freedom of movement. They are equipped with all modern amenities, such as air conditioning, wifi, jacuzzi or spa. They are capable of navigating deep waters and exploring the most remote and wildest atolls.

Services offered for your yacht charter in the Maldives

Here are the different services we offer for renting a boat in the Maldives:

• Bareboat yacht charter: if a member of your crew has sailing experience, they will be able to manoeuvre the sailboat. The boat will be entirely private and you can enjoy your cruise in the Maldives with friends or family.
• Yacht charter with skipper: this is the ideal option if no one can skipper the boat or if you want to enjoy a relaxing vacation. The professional skipper will take care of maneuvering the boat and you will benefit from his knowledge of the area to take you to the best anchorages and restaurants.
• Crewed yacht charter: this type of service will be included on luxury yachts over 20 meters. It will be optional for a catamaran charter in the Maldives between 10 and 20 meters. A crew usually consists of a captain, a cook and a hostess. The crew will take care of your every need and ensure that you have an unforgettable cruise!
• Cabin cruise: you book a cabin on board a high-end, people-sized boat that you share with other travelers and a professional crew responsible for navigation, cooking and hotel service on board. This option is preferable if you want to go as a couple or if you don't have the budget to privatize the boat.

We strongly advise you to use a skipper in this destination, for several reasons: 

• Safety. Sailing in the Maldives is not without risk, as the waters are dotted with coral reefs, sandbanks, strong currents and changing winds. A skipper can help you avoid potential dangers and allow you to sail without worry.
• Expertise. The Maldives are a huge archipelago made up of many islands, and a skipper can help you discover the most beautiful atolls and spots.
• Comfort. A skipper takes care of everything for you, you don't have to do anything except enjoy your cruise.

How much does a yacht charter in the Maldives cost?

Here is a table showing the average prices for a week's yacht charter in the Maldives. These prices are a rough dead reckoning and may vary depending on the season, the model and the age of the boat. Please note that they do not include extras such as the services of a skipper or hostess, insurance, port and anchorage fees, cleaning, etc

The price includes: the yacht charter and the main equipment on board (sails, crockery, Wi-Fi, dinghy, bedding and outboard engine).

The price does not include: insurance, port and anchorage fees, the skipper, hostess, cleaning (which is often included in a compulsory package), extras (kayak, paddle sup, etc.) and provisions taken on board.

If you would like to rent a yacht in the Maldives, please contact us directly for a price list. The price range for this type of model is very wide. Lina, our specialist in the crewed & luxury boats segment, will be able to send you the best offers.

We recommend that you take out our cancellation insurance for your yacht charter in the Maldives. It will cover all members of the crew, whereas individual cancellation insurance or insurance via your bank card will only cover the policyholder.

We also encourage our customers to take out damage waiver insurance. On a boat, damage can happen to even the best sailors. This insurance will allow you to recover a significant portion of your deposit in the event of damage related to navigation.

Where to sail in the Maldives?

• Malé: the capital of the Maldives is ideal for those who want a change of scenery from the sea and long stretches of sand. For history buffs, a short walk in the heart of the city is a must! The cultural heart of the country, Malé is home to some vestiges of its remarkable history. Strolling through its lively streets, you will come to the Male' mosque, built in 1984, for example, or Sultan Park, home to the national museum. A visit to the park will allow you to see its peaceful botanical garden. Families, meanwhile, will certainly linger by the small zoo.
• Diving spots: From Hulhumalé Island, diving enthusiasts can head forAddu Atoll, which is home to one of the most beautiful diving spots in the Maldives. You will swim in translucent water revealing all the splendor of the famous staghorn corals. Surf enthusiasts can stop over atLaamu Atoll, renowned for its many surf spots, but also for its villages typical of the archipelago.
• The most beautiful beaches: weigh anchor and head for Veligandu Island. Located in the south of Sri Lanka, it is home to the most beautiful beaches in the archipelago. If you want to try sea kayaking, head for the beaches of Sun Island Nalaguraidhoo. Those who want to veer off on a little night fishing are invited to drop anchor on the island of Nika, which has a magnificent lagoon.

When to sail in the Maldives?

• December to March: dry season. This season is ideal for those who want to enjoy the best sailing conditions during their yacht charter. The temperatures are pleasant and the weather sunny. The problem is that there are many more tourists and therefore the sites are more crowded.
• April to November: monsoon season. There are fewer tourists, which is ideal for those who want to enjoy peace and quiet during their yacht charter. Nevertheless, the risk of storms and rain is higher and the sea is often more agitated, which makes navigation more difficult.
• April and November are transitional months, when temperatures remain pleasant, but with a higher risk of rain and greater humidity.

Here is an average of the temperatures recorded in recent years in the Maldives:

Useful information for your yacht charter in the Maldives

What language is spoken in the Maldives?

The official language of the Maldives is Dhivehi. However, English is also widely spoken, particularly in the tourism sector and among the educated population.

Which currency is used in the Maldives?

The official currency of the Maldives is the Maldivian rufiyaa (MVR). However, in tourist areas and hotel complexes, the US dollar is also widely accepted.

How do I get to the Maldives?

The main airport in the Maldives isMalé International Airport, located on the island of Hulhulé. Once there, travelers can reach the various islands via domestic flights, ferries, speedboats or seaplanes.

How do I finalize the booking of my boat in the Maldives?

Once we have received your charter request, an advisor will contact you by telephone to discuss your sailing plans. They will then send you a list of suggested yachts by email. Once you have found a yacht, you can pay a deposit via your customer account to confirm the charter and secure the yacht.

What are the departure bases for sailing in the Maldives?

Your choice of departure base will depend on the navigation area you want to discover, but also on the duration of your cruise. Malé and Hulhumale are the 2 main departure bases for renting a boat with Filovent, whether traditional or classic sailboats.