Budget-friendly Liveaboards

Liveaboards presents a cost-effective solution for a fulfilling scuba diving vacation, bundling accommodation, diving, and full board in one package. Opting for a budget-friendly liveaboard doesn't compromise the quality of your diving experience. You'll have access to a diverse range of dive sites, all included in a single, affordable price. While these options may not boast luxury, they still provide comfortable and memorable scuba diving adventures, ensuring a relaxed and enjoyable experience at sea

Reviews about Budget-friendly Liveaboards

Nautilus Two Liveaboardhttps://media.divebooker.com/media/images/h128/1662123895a9c6aa69bfce2f6915e01fd501112906.jpgNautilus Two LiveaboardNautilus Liveaboards, 4 reviews
4.25

Very recommended liveaboard in the Maldives

We did a 10 day Central Atolls itinerary tour (Ari and South Male only, no Vaavu atoll), including a visit to Baa atoll in the North in the beginning of August. Very safe operation with experienced dive guides (although we only had 2 guides for 15 guests). Nevertheless all the dives went smoothly as divers go up as buddy pair when they run out of air. Typical dive time was 60 minutes for those who have enough bottom time and air left. The weather was great, not much wind, flat seas. At the end of the trip, wezwere offered a delicious Maldivian dinner onboard to try some local specialties. The chefs did a great job with varied food at all meals (some spicy, some not, to please everyone). The cabins are very comfortable with a spacious bathroom.
Read more
M. Anne2024-09-07
Nautilus Two Liveaboardhttps://media.divebooker.com/media/images/h128/1662123895a9c6aa69bfce2f6915e01fd501112906.jpgNautilus Two LiveaboardNautilus Liveaboards, 4 reviews
4.25

Good guides and crew, spacious and comfortable boat

We did a Northern itinerary from Male to Baa and Raa atoll, including a stop at Hanifaru Bay to snorkel with mantas. The cabins are very comfortable with good AC. The salon/dining room doesn't have any AC nor fan, so sometimes it gets very hot. Very good crew and dhoni crew. The dive team (Coco, Firas and Maui) is excellent, they did a great job guiding and interacting with guests in a friendly and professional manner all week long. Food was good and varied. If you are vegetarian, you will find things to eat at every meal.
M. Anne2024-09-07
Nautilus Two Liveaboardhttps://media.divebooker.com/media/images/h128/1662123895a9c6aa69bfce2f6915e01fd501112906.jpgNautilus Two LiveaboardNautilus Liveaboards, 4 reviews
5

#betterinbaa

The Nautilus Two is a very spacious ship, with beautiful cabins in where nothing is left to wish for. We had a cabin on the upper deck, but the cabins in the lower deck are basically the same. To the upper decks advantages belong the windows, which can be opened, but there are some disadvantages as well, as the cabins are located on the back of the boat where people gather, and it can be noisy at times and as we are non-smokers, also annoying with the smell of cigarettes being smoked. The cabin itself has big beds, enough space to store your suitcases and for a liveaboard a huge bathroom with a well functioning shower. The aircon in the room is working well and can be adjusted to the required temperature. The food is superb, with enough choices also for vegetarians, freshly cooked and tasty, meals are prepared 3 times a day, plus a little snack in the afternoon. Easily up to 5 kilos can be gained during the week ;-)
The diving: there was a change in the iterniary which was not communicated at first. We booked Baa-North Ari-Rashoo-Guaidoo-South Male incl. Hanifaru Bay, in the end we did only Baa and Raa, incl. Hanifaru Bay. It was a good choice, because the best dives we did during the week were in Raa atoll. This is my only point for critisism - it could have been communicated when we boarded the ship. The change of plans was weather-related and also diving related, as the previous tours on the initially planned route were not as successful concerning wildlife. The guiding itself was very relaxed and enjoyable, (thanks Coco), but we were also lucky with our laid back dive group of 5. The crew on the Nautilus Two is outstanding - you never have to ask for something, they always have their eyes open and see where help is needed. The diveguides are professional, funny and communicative and give a welcoming feeling to the guests.
There is something else I have to mention, which has nothing to do with the Nautilus Two itself: on our tour were some people who obviously didn't inform themselves what Hanifaru Bay is, and that diving is strictly prohibited there. they were complaining that they were missing dives, because of snorkeling in Hanifaru, giving the guides and crew a difficult time on board, which is just not fair - read and inform yourself before you book. Hanifaru can be the experience of a lifetime, even if its "only" snorkeling.
After all, we had a great week with stunning manta encounters. We will be back for sure!
Read more
B. Christine2024-08-16

Questions and Answers

Navigating Budget Liveaboard Experiences: What to Expect?

Embarking on a budget liveaboard adventure offers a unique and cost-effective way to explore the underwater world. Here's what you can anticipate:

  • Value for Money: Opting for a budget liveaboard typically means enjoying a diving trip at a lower cost compared to other counterparts in the same destination. This affordability does not necessarily compromise the quality of your diving experience.

  • Shared Accommodations: To keep costs down, budget dive charters often feature dormitory-style cabins or shared twin rooms. Some may offer small private staterooms, providing a cozy, budget-friendly space.

  • Communal Facilities: On budget liveaboards, it's common to find cabins with shared bathroom facilities. This setup helps reduce costs while still providing all the necessary amenities for a comfortable stay.

  • Intimate and Social Atmosphere: The close quarters of budget dive boats naturally foster a sense of community and camaraderie among guests. This intimate setting often leads to a fun and engaging scuba diving adventure, with divers bonding over shared experiences.

  • Be Mindful of Extra Fees: When booking a budget yacht, it’s important to be aware of additional costs that may not be included in the base price. Extras like Nitrox, alcoholic beverages, and transfer services might incur additional charges. However, liveaboards offering the best value for money may include some of these extras in their package, enhancing the overall affordability of the trip.

Budget liveaboards are an excellent choice for divers seeking an affordable way to explore the seas without sacrificing the essence of a great diving adventure. While amenities might be more basic compared to luxury options, the thrill of diving and the camaraderie on board often make up for the frills.

 

The Best Budget-Friendly Liveaboard Dive Boats

Indonesia, while not typically known for being budget-friendly, does offer a selection of liveaboards for those looking to explore its underwater marvels without breaking the bank. Epica, a traditional fishing vessel refitted for diving, presents an economical option. It features 7 guest cabins with bunk beds on the lower deck, close to the ocean, where you can enjoy the sea breeze and morning sunlight. The cabins are basic, equipped with power sockets and fans, and two shared bathrooms with freshwater showers.

Kira Kira and Akomo Isseki combine classic charm with modern technology, boasting large decks and low-lying superstructures for safe and magical sea journeys. These liveaboards offer two shared bathroom facilities with modern appliances, maintaining a balance of tradition and comfort.

Sokaraja stands out with its unique offering of 2 private and 1 shared cabin for up to 10 divers. It provides rare short-duration trips of 3 and 4 nights to Raja Ampat, a gem for budget-conscious divers seeking a shorter excursion.

In the Bahamas, the Morning Star and Sea Explorer liveaboards cater to budget travelers, offering a communal and friendly atmosphere with dormitory-style accommodations. These trips include all-inclusive packages, up to 19 dives, and shared bath facilities, ideal for single divers and those eager to socialize.

For exploring the Red Sea Egypt, consider boarding vessels like Tillis or Bella 2. Tillis, a 35m wooden boat designed for divers, offers 13 double cabins with en-suite bathrooms, a spacious salon with dining and lounge areas. Bella 2 accommodates up to 20 guests in well-appointed cabins, featuring a mix of bunk and twin beds, a cozy dining salon, and a large sun deck with picturesque views.

For those eyeing the Maldives liveaboard diving on a budget, Nautilus Two and Carpe Diem are excellent choices. Nautilus Two, a traditional Maldivian vessel, features 12 spacious cabins for up to 24 guests, blending excellent workmanship with luxury. Carpe Diem, a 35-meter yacht, accommodates 20 passengers and offers itineraries for both diving and surfing, complete with modern amenities, a restaurant, bar, and ample deck space.

Each of these liveaboards provides an affordable way to experience some of the world’s most stunning diving destinations, without compromising on the diving adventure or onboard comfort