By: Torben Lonne
The Duke of York belongs to the Luxury Yacht Maldives fleet, known for taking luxury cruises to the best levels possible. The vessel measures 36 meters or about 118 feet. This luxury liveaboard offers top notch scuba diving experiences in the azure blue waters of the Maldives decorated by sugar-white sand beaches. The close encounters with the fantastic marine diversity will surely make this a trip to be remembered.
Our Overall Review
Things we like:
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Several divers reported that the dive masters was knowledgeable and knew where to find the Manta Rays and other aquatic wildlife. -
Many divers said they liked the beach hopping and the sand bars on the beaches.
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Some people stated that the the scuba briefings were efficient and to the point.
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The food was exemplary and the chef out did himself every night.
Things we don't like:
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Some divers said they did not have any hot water in their showers in the morning. -
A couple of people noted that the bottom cabins was susceptible to the noise of the engine.
Diving on the MY Duke of York in Maldives
The Duke of York gracefully travels the Maldivian waters at a cruising speed of 9 knots. When not taking part in underwater activities, guests can actually find the liveaboard itself an endearing spot to spend hours not only appreciating the scenery from afar but also making use of the many amenities and activities on board.
The main saloon that serves as a common area, has among other things – comfortable seats, a TV, and a full entertainment system. It is where movies and music can be enjoyed in a social ambiance. Internet is free to use.
Guests who just want to adore the plain beauty of nature can spend their free time on any of the boat’s three decks. Each deck offers amazing views of the seas and skies. One can comfortably recline on the lounge chairs and relax.
The Cabins
As a luxury liveaboard with a great reputation, Duke of York has 10 spacious cabins for the guests.
The maximum capacity of the boat is 24 guests. The choices of cabins include any of the four Triple Cabins and two Twin Cabins located on the ship’s lower deck; three Twin Cabins on the upper deck, one of which is conveniently converted into a Double Bed Cabin; and a Twin Cabin on the main deck.
All cabins are spacious and comfortable with individual air-conditioning and private bathrooms.
Food and Beverage
Cruising in the Maldives will not be complete without experiencing the local cuisine of the islands. Topping the day’s menu are local dishes to give the guests a taste of authentic Maldivian food, as well as those of neighboring Sri Lanka. There are also selections of the finest Italian dishes to add some Western taste to the culinary delights offered to the guests. Whatever dish is prepared, the onboard chef assures the ingredients are best-sourced to give the most satisfying taste.
Snacks are served throughout the day, in consideration of the need to re-energizing for other activities planned for the day. There are also refreshments ranging from cold beverages like soft drinks, juices, beers, and some wines.
Guest with special dietary requirements doesn’t need to worry that their needs won’t be attended to. They just have to make advanced notices upon booking and all will be taken cared of along the cruise.
Itinerary
The Maldives is a true paradise to divers and non-divers alike. The Duke of York sails to the most loved sites of these beautiful islands, where the most fantastic sea creatures thrive and where picturesque scenes are at every angle.
The usual itinerary of this luxury liveaboard includes the well-known diving sites of the Maldives such as the North Male Atoll, Hanifaru Bay, Ari Atoll, Radshoo, and Baa Atoll.
Land excursions are facilitated with a dhoni, a traditional Maldivian vessel. Like that, guests are transported to some of the islands’ unexplored spots where one can enjoy unspoiled nature.
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