Emperor Virgo Liveaboard Overview

It’s easy to see why visitors become addicted to diving in the Maldives—with a year-round tropical climate and warm water, it’s the ideal dive destination. From shore dives to liveaboards, divers can enjoy the Indian monsoon currents as they sweep the islands and flow through the atolls. Water temperatures range from 80 to 86 F (26 to 30 C) and visibility varies from 65 to 100 feet (20 to 30 m).

The best time of the year to see whale sharks and manta rays is August to November, although it’s also common to see plentiful other marine life in the area, such as barracuda, dolphins, turtles, and napoleon wrasse. Gray reef, blacktip, and whitetip sharks abound.

As the Emperor Virgo navigates through the Central, North, and South Atolls, some of the dive sites included in the itinerary are Ari Atoll, Vaavu, Huvadhoo, and Rasdhoo, famous for its rich marine life. With an endless array of dive sites, it would take several trips to explore all that the Maldives has to offer.

All dives on the Emperor Virgo take place from the accompanying diving dhoni, where guests enjoy ample space for gearing up and storage. The smaller boat also means guests are dropped much closer to dive sites and cleaning stations, accompanied by any of the three guides onboard.

To ensure that divers get the most out of their trip, free nitrox is available for those certified. A range of PADI courses also aim to enhance skills. The Emperor Virgo is equipped for rebreather diving as well.

Because of the medium to strong currents, drift dives are common, so it’s recommended that divers have at least achieved an intermediate or experienced level. However, various sites are suitable for beginners. Those who prefer not to experience strong currents should plan their trips away from the new and full moons when the currents are weaker.

Highlights:

• Pristine visibility up to 100 feet (30 m)
• Up to 17 dives
• Equipped for rebreather diving
• Free nitrox

As with every liveaboard, the experience isn’t complete without abundant, delicious food, and guests on the Emperor Virgo won’t be disappointed. The dining area on the main deck features an incredible, panoramic view. 

Guests can enjoy it as they dine on international cuisines served buffet-style three times a day. The menu also includes local cuisine, seafood, and vegetarian dishes to satisfy everyone’s individual preferences and dietary needs.

Refreshing beverages such as juice, coffee, tea, water, and soda are provided free of charge, as well as complimentary wine with dinner, along with light snacks throughout the day to keep guests energized between dives.

Highlights:

• Caters to dietary needs
• Complimentary wine with dinner
• Alternative alcoholic drinks are available at extra cost