Sachika Liveaboard, Maldives

Sachika is a 33-metre liveaboard offering diving cruises across the Maldives. Ten air-conditioned cabins accommodate up to 22 guests, with daily diving supported by a separate dhoni.

Boat Interior

The air-conditioned restaurant on the main deck serves as both the dining room and briefing area. Buffet meals are served here, with a water dispenser and self-service tea and coffee stations available onboard.

Shared spaces include an indoor salon, a library, and audio and video entertainment. Outside, guests can spend time at the open-air lounge bar or on the upper sun deck, which is furnished with sunbeds and bean bags and has a Jacuzzi at the stern. Paid internet access is also available.

Cabin Types

Standard Double / Twin Cabin

Located on the lower deck, the Standard Double / Twin Cabin accommodates two guests and can be arranged with either a double bed or twin beds. Each cabin has air conditioning, an en-suite bathroom with a large shower, and a minibar.

Junior Suite

The lower-deck Junior Suite accommodates up to three guests and includes a very large bed. It is air-conditioned and has a minibar and an en-suite bathroom with a large shower.

Suite

Positioned on the upper deck, the Suite accommodates two guests and offers ocean views. Each has air conditioning, a minibar, and an en-suite bathroom with a large shower.

Daily housekeeping is provided in all cabins.

Dive Deck

Diving takes place from a dedicated dhoni that accompanies the main vessel. Tanks, diving equipment, and compressors are kept aboard the dhoni, separating dive operations from the guest accommodation and providing additional space for equipment storage and dive preparation.

Standard diving provisions include 13-litre aluminium tanks, belts, weights, and DIN adaptors. Rental equipment and 15-litre steel tanks are available for an additional charge and should be reserved in advance.

Nitrox is available free of charge. The diving facilities also include a shaded dive area, a dive deck, and warm-water and outdoor showers.

Safety and Navigation

At least four dive guides accompany each cruise, with a target of no more than six divers per guide. Groups may be made smaller according to guest experience and diving conditions.

An Open Water Diver certification or equivalent is required, although some itineraries and deeper sites may require or recommend additional experience. Divers should be comfortable with drift diving, as strong and unpredictable currents can occur.

A dive computer and surface marker buoy are required for every dive. Reef hooks are provided when needed, and a torch is required for night diving. Emergency oxygen is available onboard, and crew members are trained in its administration.

Non-diving Activities

Non-divers and snorkellers can join accompanied snorkeling sessions or use the onboard kayaks and SUP.

Depending on the itinerary and conditions, time away from diving may include visits to desert islands, sandbanks, local communities, and Malé. Beach barbecues, sunset fishing, happy hours, marine biology talks, and evening entertainment may also be arranged during the cruise.

Itineraries

Sachika’s itineraries include Best of Central Atolls, Manta Madness, Northern Highlights, Wild Deep South, and 10 Atolls, 2 Hemispheres.

Best of Central Atolls travels through North Malé, South Malé, Felidhoo, and Ari Atoll. Manta Madness includes Baa Atoll and Hanifaru Bay, Rasdhoo, and Ari Atoll, while Northern Highlights extends into the northern atolls.

Wild Deep South focuses on Addu, Fuvahmulah, and Huvadhoo. The longer 10 Atolls, 2 Hemispheres itinerary crosses between North Malé and Addu, with departures operating in both directions.

Most itineraries include up to three dives per day, except on arrival day and during the final 24 hours before flying. Night diving is included on selected routes, while the required certification and number of logged dives vary by itinerary.

When to Go

The northeast monsoon generally runs from January through March, while the southwest monsoon extends from mid-May through November. December and April are transitional months, and rain or unsettled conditions are more likely during the southwest monsoon period.

Water temperature averages between 27 and 29°C.

Photography Facilities

Charging stations are available for underwater cameras and computers. A separate rinsing facility is also provided for underwater camera equipment