Simple stays with essential amenities. Typically guesthouses, hostels or hotels rated below 3 stars — clean, no-frills, and great for value-conscious travelers.
Comfortable and reliable 3-star stays. Expect private rooms, en-suite bathrooms, and solid amenities — a great balance between comfort and cost.
Upscale 4-5 star hotels and lodges. Enjoy high-end service, refined comfort, and premium locations — ideal for travelers seeking extra indulgence.
Absolutely loved my Dhoni snorkelling adventure in the Maldives. Magic!
The sealife was sublime - the hawksbill turtles, dolphins, tropical fish and sharks were phenomenal. Unfortunately the coral was extensively bleached but trying to rejuvenate.
Our guide Teddie was exceptional, skilled at positioning our small group in the best snorkelling spots and capturing it/ us on camera. The crew worked tirelessly - Chef Asitha and Waiter Libee produced delicious banquets for every meal, .Captain Anees took us where we needed to go and Rahul kept a watchful eye whilst we were snorkelling and kept things ship-shape.
As expected, the accommodation was very basic, but met all our needs.
Tips:
1. Follow Explore!’s recommendation and bring a smallish soft bag - the drawers under the bunks are roomy and you actually need very little ;
2. Ignore Explore!’s recommendations and allow more for tips than the 25sterling recommended. The team work tirelessly to provide outstanding experiences.
3. Bring sunscreen and shirts for sun-protection.
I did this trip as an extension to a Sri Lankan tour and it was a fabulous combo: its going to be hard to beat and especially hard to beat the value.
Active and outdoorWildlife
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Dive into the vibrant blue waters of the Maldives with the "Marine Conservation Cruise," a unique 8-day sailing adventure focused on protecting the archipelago’s precious marine ecosystems. This tour is perfect for travelers who care deeply about the environment and want to make a positive impact while enjoying the natural beauty of the islands.
Board the MV Felicity in Male and join marine biologists from the Whale Shark Research Program, participating in responsible snorkeling, marine life data collection, coral nursery work, and educational talks on conservation. Visit local NGOs, snorkel in the South Ari Atoll—the realm of the majestic whale shark—and engage in beach cleanups on remote islands. Experience authentic island life with a Maldivian-themed night on Gulhi and end your journey snorkeling with stingrays and visiting a coral nursery.
This cruise trip’s USP is hands-on conservation—giving you the chance to contribute to real research and leave a lasting legacy. With small group sizes and limited departures, early booking is recommended for this rare opportunity to blend adventure, education, and environmental stewardship in paradise.
Sailing, yachting and motor boating
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers