Manthiri

Navigation & communication: VHF/DSS and HF/DSS radio, radar, GPS, satellite phone, Internet. Engines: 1 × Cummins 400 hp. Compressors: 2 × 450 l/min. Generators: 2 × G&M 45 kW, onboard voltage — 380/220/110 V (24 hours). Air conditioning: central — cabins/saloon (with individual cabin control). Fresh water: 2-tonne reserve + 2 watermakers. Zodiac: fibreglass tender (12 persons) and Dhoni *

Manthiri is a yacht offering exclusive service, with a crew of 12 for just 12 guests — one of the most experienced teams in the liveaboard fleet. The staff, including two outstanding chefs, a divemaster and a PADI instructor, is exceptionally friendly and always attentive. According to an independent expert survey by the respected Western magazine Undercurrent, Manthiri has been recognised as one of the finest liveaboards in the Maldives, meeting five-star standards for service and accommodation.

• For passenger comfort and to maximise space on board, all diving equipment is kept on the dedicated dive dhoni that accompanies the yacht. In the Maldives these dive boats are known as dhonis. The dhoni sailing with Manthiri is exceptionally well-equipped — in addition to a compressor (450 l/min), a nitrox system and organised gear storage for all guests, it has a spacious dive deck with a ladder, seating for 14 divers, a hot-water shower and a rinse tank for equipment. This separation of the main vessel and the dive dhoni makes Manthiri more spacious while also streamlining dive operations, since all gear is kept in one place and the stability and low freeboard of the dhoni make entries from its dive platform easy. Tanks: 38 × 12- and 14-litre (DIN & YOKE). A warm towel from the dryer is provided after every dive.

Meals: Full board. Breakfast and dinner are served buffet-style; alcoholic beverages, ice cream and desserts are available for purchase at the bar. Mineral water, tea and coffee are complimentary throughout the day; wine is additionally served at dinner.

Cabins — 4 twin cabins and 2 double cabins — minibar, wardrobe, plus dedicated luggage storage under the bed — en suite bathroom with shower and hair dryer — individually controlled air conditioning. Saloon and dining area — teak interior — music centre and TV/VCR with DVD player — 2 round dining tables comfortably seating all 14 guests for breakfast, lunch and dinner — a small aft saloon fitted with a lightbox table, projector and computer for viewing slides and photos. Upper deck — partially shaded sun deck with sun loungers and soft chairs — mini-bar with soft drinks.

Vessel layout: click on the image to enlarge.

Liveaboard pricing for Manthiri, USD per person per night.

Included in the price: airport transfers (Malé) — yacht — airport (Malé) on the start and end dates; accommodation on board in double cabins; full board meals, drinks and snacks; 3–4 dives per day, weights, belts and tanks; English-speaking dive guide service; GST — 17% of the price.

Non-divers receive a 20% discount.