Frequently Asked Questions

Our onboard spa offers a wide selection of treatments designed for relaxation, recovery and wellbeing. Guests can choose from Balinese, Swedish, Ayurvedic, traditional Filipino Hilot, Japanese Shiatsu and sports massages, alongside facials, body treatments and Deluxe spa experiences. Our full Spa Menu is available upon request.

Both the Spa and Scuba & Spa packages include a selection of our Classic Body and Classic Beauty Treatments. Deluxe treatments are available at an additional charge. Please contact us if you would like to receive the full Spa Menu.

Your first spa appointments can be arranged on embarkation day. Further treatments can be booked directly at the Spa Reception on the Spa Deck throughout your cruise, subject to availability. Additional treatments may also be purchased on board when appointments are available. Please note that treatments are not available on arrival and departure days and cannot be booked in advance.

If you are pregnant, have a medical condition or are taking medication, we recommend consulting your doctor before booking a treatment. Please inform your spa therapist of any health conditions, allergies, injuries or other relevant concerns before your treatment so they can advise you accordingly.

Yes. You can upgrade a Classic treatment included in your package to a Deluxe treatment by paying the difference in price.

Our spa products are exclusively selected for Scubaspa, using high-quality organic ingredients, botanical extracts and essential oils. Each product is chosen to complement our treatments, with particular attention to ingredients, textures and aromas.

For our Best of Maldives and Far North routes, a PADI Open Water Diver certification or internationally recognized equivalent is all you need to join the Scuba Package. There is no minimum number of logged dives. PADI Scuba Divers can also participate with a private dive guide booked in advance.

If you are not yet certified, you can complete the PADI Open Water Diver course on board during either of these two routes, subject to availability and advance confirmation.

Our Deep South Expeditions require an Advanced Open Water Diver certification (or equivalent) and at least 100 logged dives, due to the more challenging conditions and potentially stronger currents.

For all routes, Advanced certification is required for dives below 18 meters and for night dives. Open Water Divers interested in night diving can complete the PADI Adventure Night Dive or enroll in the Advanced Open Water Diver course.

Guests traveling on a Spa Package can also try diving through PADI Discover Scuba Diving, subject to availability and an additional fee.

Included in every dive package: Each dive package includes a 12-litre aluminium tank as standard, weights, mask, snorkel and fins. Every diver is required to carry a surface marker buoy (SMB) and reef hook; these can be provided free of charge if you do not have your own.

Rental equipment: BCD, regulator, wetsuit, dive computer, underwater torch and larger tanks are available to rent on board for an additional fee. A dive computer is mandatory for every diver.

What to bring: Please bring your certification card and logbook. Our rental fins are full-foot fins and are worn without booties, so we recommend bringing neoprene socks if required for additional comfort. Our tanks are fitted with K-valves compatible with both DIN and yoke regulators.

You are, of course, welcome to bring your own equipment. Our dive team will set it up for you, rinse it daily and give it a thorough clean after your final dive.

Yes. Nitrox is available for an additional fee, typically with an EANx blend of 30–33%. A recognized Nitrox certification is required. Alternatively, guests can complete the PADI Enriched Air Diver course on board.

As our dives are conducted to a maximum depth of 30 meters and guests may complete several dives per day, we recommend using Nitrox throughout the cruise.

Our maximum ratio is 6 divers per dive guide. Dive groups are arranged according to certification level and experience to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

Open Water Divers cannot join a group diving at Advanced level. Divers with a higher certification may request to join a lower-level group, subject to availability.

Water temperatures generally range from 26–29°C throughout the year. For most itineraries, a 3 mm shorty or full-length wetsuit is sufficient.

For Deep South Expeditions, we recommend a full-length wetsuit as water temperatures can be slightly cooler. Guests who tend to feel the cold may prefer a 5 mm wetsuit.

Yes. Private dive guides are available for guests who would like additional support, a more personalized diving experience or assistance with specific requirements.

Private guides must be requested and paid for in advance. Last-minute requests on board are subject to guide availability.

A private dive guide is mandatory for divers aged 10–11 and for PADI Scuba Divers who wish to participate in diving activities.

All guests participating in scuba diving activities are required to complete a Diver Medical Participant Questionnaire before diving. This questionnaire helps identify any medical conditions that may require further evaluation to ensure your safety underwater.

Answering “Yes” to a question does not automatically disqualify you from diving. However, it may indicate a pre-existing condition for which consultation with a physician is recommended before participating in diving activities.

Guests enrolling in a PADI course must complete the official PADI Medical Form, which will be provided separately. If a student answers “Yes” to any question, medical clearance signed by a physician is required before starting the course.

The medical form is valid for 12 months, provided there have been no relevant changes to your health, including recent medical conditions or surgery.

Yes. We are happy to accommodate dietary requirements wherever possible. Please let us know about any specific requirements at the time of booking so our team has sufficient time to plan and source the necessary ingredients. As supplies in the Maldives can be limited, please note that certain ingredients or products may not always be available.

Yes. Please inform us of any food allergies or intolerances at the time of booking so our team has sufficient time to prepare accordingly. We will accommodate individual requirements and prepare separate dishes where necessary.

During shared dining experiences such as the beach barbecue, a separate dish may be prepared depending on the specific allergy or intolerance, to avoid cross-contamination, as all food is otherwise prepared on a shared grill.

Our menus combine local and tropical flavors with European and Mediterranean cuisine. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are served buffet-style, complemented by live cooking stations, in our al fresco restaurant on the Main Deck.

Dinner experiences vary throughout the cruise and include themed evenings inspired by cuisines such as Italian, Mexican and Asian, a special à la carte dinner under the stars, and, weather and itinerary permitting, a beach barbecue on a desert island.

There is no formal dress code on board; casual wear is perfectly suitable. We simply ask guests to wear appropriate clothing covering both the upper and lower body when dining. Swimwear and wet clothing are not suitable in the restaurant.

Absolutely. Catering to both divers and non-divers is at the heart of the Scubaspa concept, and our Spa Package is specifically designed for guests who prefer to enjoy the Maldives beyond diving.

Activities and experiences include daily sunrise yoga, guided snorkeling, kayaking and SUP (subject to weather and sea conditions), spa treatments, sunbathing and relaxing on our spacious decks, beach time and sunset cocktails, as well as access to the Jacuzzi and gym and movie nights.

We do not offer swimming lessons on board. Guests wishing to snorkel should be able to swim, and life vests are available if required.

Our itineraries include opportunities to experience the Maldives beyond the water, including a beach barbecue on an island and sandbank visits.

All excursions and onshore experiences included as part of the scheduled cruise itinerary are included in the cruise price.

Guided snorkeling sessions are offered up to twice a day, depending on the itinerary, location and conditions.

On Deep South itineraries, snorkeling is generally possible each day except at Fuvahmulah, where strong currents and the presence of tiger sharks make the conditions unsuitable for snorkeling.

No. Dives and spa treatments are specific to the package selected and cannot be exchanged or substituted for one another.

Yes. Additional spa treatments can be booked on board for an additional fee, subject to availability.

Yes. If you are on the Scuba & Spa package, additional dives can be arranged for an additional fee, subject to the applicable diving requirements.

Yes. You may request to change your package before the cruise, subject to availability.

Once the cruise has started, package changes are generally not possible. However, in exceptional circumstances, our onboard team will be happy to discuss the available options and find the most suitable solution for you.

Scubaspa Yin and Scubaspa Yang are identical 50-meter sister yachts, launched in 2013 and 2014 respectively. Both offer the same suite categories, onboard facilities, service and Scubaspa standards, so guests can expect the same experience whichever vessel they travel on.

Scubaspa Yin and Yang extend across four decks and offer spacious areas dedicated to relaxation, wellness and socializing. Facilities include a 300 m² spa with four treatment rooms and a peaceful spa lounge, a gym, an al fresco restaurant and bar, a spacious sundeck with Jacuzzi, additional outdoor deck areas, a spa boutique, small library and dedicated camera charging station. Non-motorized watersports such as kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) are also available.

Each yacht is accompanied by a dedicated 20-meter dive dhoni and a dinghy.

Scubaspa Yin and Yang each accommodate up to 36 guests across 17 suites, including triple occupancy in two suites. Due to the capacity of the dive dhoni, a maximum of 26 divers can be accommodated.

Each yacht is supported by approximately 30 crew members.

Yes. Starlink internet is available on board, with Wi-Fi hotspot coverage throughout the yacht. Each cabin receives 5 GB of complimentary data. Additional data packages can be purchased on board.

Scubaspa Yin and Yang are accompanied by a dedicated 20-meter dive dhoni, from which all diving activities take place.

The dhoni is equipped with individual seating and gear storage, tank stations and wetsuit hangers, air and Nitrox compressors, multiple water-entry points, an outdoor shower and toilet, and a sundeck with bean bags. Keeping the compressors and dive operations on the dhoni also helps maintain a peaceful atmosphere on board the main yacht.

A separate dinghy is available for snorkeling activities and transfers between the main vessel and land.

Our suites offer different bed configurations depending on the suite category:

• Manta Suites: King-size bed convertible into twin beds (Suites 14, 15, 20 and 21) or queen-size bed (Suite 18).
• Dolphin Suites: Queen-size bed.
• Cowrie Suite: Queen-size bed with an additional sofa bed.
• Sea Star Suites: Queen-size bed, with an additional bunk bed in Suite 10.

Two suites can accommodate a third guest: the Cowrie Suite (Suite 7), which features an additional sofa bed, and the Sea Star Suite (Suite 10), which offers a bunk bed and is particularly suitable for two adults traveling with a child.

Our suites are booked on a per-cabin basis rather than per bed, so we do not arrange cabin sharing between individual travelers. Guests traveling together are, of course, welcome to share a suite under the same booking.

For our dedicated solo-traveler cruises, the single supplement is waived, allowing solo guests to enjoy a private suite without an additional charge.

Yes. All suites are equipped with hand and bath towels, as well as complimentary toiletries, including shampoo, conditioner, body wash and hand soap.

The Maldives enjoys a tropical climate with warm temperatures throughout the year, generally ranging between 27–32°C. Water temperatures typically range from 26–29°C, making conditions suitable for diving and snorkeling year-round.

The northeast monsoon (approximately November to April) generally brings drier, sunnier conditions, while the southwest monsoon (May to October) may bring occasional rainfall, stronger winds and more variable sea conditions. Diving and marine encounters remain excellent throughout the year, with seasonal variations depending on the itinerary.

Tourists are generally granted a free 30-day visa on arrival in the Maldives, without the need for prior visa approval. Travelers must meet the applicable entry requirements, including holding a valid passport and confirmed onward or return travel arrangements.

All travelers must also complete the free online Traveller Declaration through the official IMUGA portal within 96 hours before arrival.

We recommend checking the latest visa and entry requirements with Maldives Immigration before traveling, as regulations may change and individual restrictions may apply.

The Maldives has strict customs regulations. The import of alcohol, pork products, narcotics, pornographic materials and certain religious materials is prohibited or restricted. Electronic cigarettes, vapes and related products are also prohibited, including for personal use.

Guests traveling with prescription medication should carry the appropriate medical documentation and check whether any restrictions apply.

These are the current regulations. However, as import restrictions may change, we strongly recommend checking the latest requirements with the Maldives Customs Service before traveling.

Both soft-sided and hard-shell luggage are welcome on board. Our suites offer storage space for your belongings, so there is no need to bring a specific type of suitcase.

We recommend packing light, comfortable clothing suitable for a tropical climate, along with any personal essentials and equipment you may need throughout your cruise.

We recommend bringing comfortable, lightweight clothing suitable for warm weather and a relaxed onboard atmosphere.

Useful items include:

• Swimwear, casual clothing and light evening wear
• Sun protection, including reef-conscious sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat
• A light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings or air-conditioned areas
• Sandals for beach visits, if desired
• Personal medications and toiletries
• Diving certification card, logbook and personal dive equipment, if applicable
• Underwater camera equipment and chargers, if desired

We have a no-shoes policy on board, so extensive footwear is unnecessary.

Diving insurance is mandatory for all guests participating in scuba diving activities. Your policy must cover recreational diving to the maximum depth permitted by your certification, including emergency medical treatment, evacuation and hyperbaric chamber treatment.

Guests who do not have diving insurance may be able to purchase short-term DAN diving insurance on board, subject to applicable policy conditions. Please confirm with our Reservations Team before departure.

We also strongly recommend comprehensive travel insurance covering medical expenses, trip cancellation, travel disruptions, baggage loss and emergency evacuation. Please ensure that your insurance provides adequate coverage for your intended activities and destinations.

There is no formal dress code on board. We encourage a relaxed, casual style throughout your cruise.

For comfort and safety reasons, we follow a barefoot policy on board.

When dining in the restaurant, we kindly ask guests to wear appropriate clothing covering both the upper and lower body. Wet clothing is not permitted in the dining areas.

Our suites are equipped with multiple 220 V, 50 Hz British-style three-pin (Type G) power outlets. Universal adapters are available on board.

For onboard expenses, we accept cash payments in USD or EUR, as well as major credit cards. Euro payments are converted according to the applicable Bank of Maldives exchange rate.

Onboard expenses can be settled using

• Cash in USD or EUR
• Visa, MasterCard or American Express, subject to a 4% processing fee

Drone use in the Maldives is strictly regulated and requires prior approval from the relevant authorities, including the Ministry of Defense and the Maldives Civil Aviation Authority.

Drone flights are generally restricted to daylight hours, a maximum altitude of 120 meters (400 feet), and must maintain a safe distance from airports, military facilities and populated areas. Additional permissions may be required depending on the location.

Guests wishing to operate a drone must obtain all necessary permits in advance and coordinate with our onboard team before any drone flights.

As regulations may change, we strongly recommend checking the latest requirements with the Maldives Civil Aviation Authority before traveling.

To confirm your booking, a 25% deposit is required within 7 calendar days of receiving your booking option.

The remaining balance is due at least 60 days before departure.

If you book less than 60 days before departure, full payment is required within 72 hours of booking, and proof of payment must be emailed to us within the same timeframe.

We accept payments by bank transfer and credit or debit card.

No, we do not charge any additional fees for credit or debit card payments when paying for your booking.

Our cancellation policy depends on how far in advance you cancel your booking:

• More than 120 days before departure: A 25% cancellation fee applies. Alternatively, your 25% deposit can be credited towards a future booking under the same name, provided the new departure date is within 12 months of the date we are notified of the cancellation.
• Between 60 and 120 days before departure: A 25% cancellation fee applies. No refunds or booking credits are available.
• 60 days or less before departure: A 100% cancellation fee applies. No refunds or booking credits are available.
• If one guest sharing a double suite cancels 60 or more days before departure: The canceling guest’s 25% deposit may be credited towards a future booking under the same name, provided the new departure date is within 12 months of the date we are notified of the cancellation. A single supplement will apply to the remaining guest.

We recommend reviewing our full booking terms and conditions for complete details.

You can request a change to your travel dates free of charge up to 120 days before departure, subject to availability for your preferred dates, suite category and package.

Unfortunately, date changes cannot be made less than 120 days before departure. Please contact our Sales & Reservations Team as early as possible if you need to change your travel dates.

We aim to maintain consistent pricing across our direct bookings and authorized travel partners. If one of our partner travel operators or agents officially confirms a lower rate for the same trip and booking conditions, we will review it and match the price where applicable.

Absolutely! You are welcome to book directly with us. Our Sales & Reservations Team can provide first-hand information, personalized assistance and support throughout the booking process, from your initial inquiry to your departure.

Our five-person team is available seven days a week across different time zones, so we can assist guests from around the world. We aim to respond to all inquiries within 24 hours.

Our 7-night cruises generally operate from Saturday to Saturday, unless otherwise specified.

Check-in: Between 13:00 and 17:00 on arrival day.

Check-out: At 08:45 on departure day. Guests with earlier departure flights can be accommodated with an earlier transfer.

Please note that early check-in and late check-out are not available, as the yacht requires time for cleaning, provisioning and preparation between cruises.

According to local regulations, a minimum surface interval of 24 hours is required between your last dive and your departure flight. If your dive computer indicates a longer no-fly time, you must follow its recommendation.

Please note that this also applies to seaplane transfers, as these aircraft reach altitudes where changes in atmospheric pressure may increase the risk of decompression sickness.

To ensure you can enjoy both scheduled morning dives on Friday, we recommend booking your departure flight after 12:00 noon on Saturday.

The required arrival and departure airports depend on your selected itinerary. Complimentary transfers are included between the vessel and the designated airports on scheduled embarkation and disembarkation days.

Best of Maldives: Velana International Airport, Malé (MLE).

Deep South Expeditions: Velana International Airport, Malé (MLE), Kooddoo Airport (GKK) or Gan International Airport (GAN), depending on the itinerary.

Classic North Expeditions: Velana International Airport, Malé (MLE) or Dharavandhoo Airport (DRV), depending on the itinerary.

Far Far North Expeditions: Dharavandhoo Airport (DRV) or Hanimaadhoo International Airport (HAQ), depending on the itinerary.

Please check the designated arrival and departure airports for your specific cruise before booking your flights.

Upon arrival at the airport, our airport representative will welcome you.

Scheduled transfers to the yacht are arranged at approximately 12:30, 15:00 and 17:00. The journey is operated by our dive dhoni and takes approximately 20 minutes, depending on the yacht’s anchorage location and local conditions.

Later arrivals may be accommodated by prior arrangement with our Reservations Team. Please note that transfer times are approximate and may be subject to delays.

Specific meeting points and transfer arrangements will be communicated prior to departure according to the itinerary.

On departure day, our dive dhoni will transfer you back to the designated airport.

If your flight is delayed, please inform our Cruise Director as soon as possible so we can assist with alternative transfer arrangements.

If you still arrive on the scheduled embarkation day, a transfer to the yacht can usually be arranged, subject to operational conditions. However, if your arrival is delayed until the following day, the vessel may already have departed from the embarkation area. In this case, a private speedboat transfer may be required, subject to availability and an additional fee.