StingrayMale

The Stingray has long been a popular dive boat in the Maldives, the ship is known for its nice and fairly relaxed atmosphere.

From Male it visits some of the best dive sites in the Maldives on one or two week dive trips. Stingray visits North and South Male Atoll, North and South Ari Atoll, as well as the Vaavu Atoll.

The 31-meter (101 feet) vessel has 9 cabins for a maximum of 18 divers. All cabins are air conditioned, have a window, 220 volts electricity connection (adapters available) and a private bathroom with hot shower and toilet. 4 cabins have a double bed and 5 cabins are equipped with 2 single beds.

A large lounge with sofas, a bar, a small library and TV / DVD / Stereo equipment is at the guests' disposal. The delicious food is a mix of Asian and European cuisine and the meals are served buffet style, and there is always plenty of it. If conditions permit, there is the possibility of a beach BBQ. On the outside of the boat there are ample sun decks, they are partially covered and therefore also provide shady areas. A seven-member crew is looking after the welfare of the guests.

A generator provides 24 hours 220 volt electricity and a desalinator provides sufficient fresh water. The electronic and safety equipment of the ship adhere to Maldivian standards.

Diving is conducted off the separate diving dhoni. On the dive dhoni, extra sets of scuba diving equipment is stored as well as the compressor and the tanks are also refilled here. Daily two to three dives are introduced with detailed briefings as well as one night dive per week. Up to 17 dives are offered on a 7 night tour, up to 35 dives on a 14 night tour. The last dive must be finished 24 hours before departure.

Divers with an Open Water Dive certificate or equivalent must not dive deeper than 18 m (60 feet), or they can do an on-site deep dive course. The same goes for night dives: Proof of a certain night diving experience is necessary to participate or a speciality course can be attended.

The Stingray visits some of the best diving spots on the South Male, Felidhu, Vattaru, Mulakku or Ari Atoll. The dive sites here are very diverse, everything is potentially on offer from shallow coral gardens to steep walls and rapid drift dives in channels. Impressive are the large schools of fish and encounters with sharks, turtles, manta rays and eagle rays at many dive sites. In particular, the relatively unspoilt areas in Felidhu, Vattaru Mulakku Atoll guarantee top class diving. The final decision on the itinerary is always made by the captain depending on weather conditions.

Excellent value for money in the Maldives.