A serene atoll-to-atoll journey combining coral lagoons, manta encounters, and barefoot luxury.
From Malé to Laamu — A Voyage Through Coral Paradise
A chain of coral atolls scattered across an ocean of impossible blue, the Maldives remains one of the most spectacular yacht cruising grounds on earth. The Maldivian Atoll Expedition is designed as a serene, family-friendly passage through the archipelago’s southern atolls — combining the ease of resort life with the quiet adventure of open-sea navigation. Over twelve sun-drenched days, the journey moves at an unhurried rhythm: swimming with mantas, snorkelling in coral gardens, visiting local island communities, and anchoring each evening in lagoons of glass-clear turquoise. Each day unfolds between sea and sky, each night drifts into stillness under constellations mirrored in the water. This is the quintessential Maldivian experience — luxurious, immersive, and utterly restorative.
Day 1 – Malé Embarkation
Arrive at Malé International Airport and board your yacht directly from the marina at Hulhumalé. After a safety briefing and welcome drinks, set sail for South Malé Atoll. Anchor in a protected lagoon, enjoy an afternoon swim, and dine al fresco as the city lights fade astern.
Day 2 – Vaavu Atoll (Felidhoo Region)
A morning cruise (≈25 nm) brings you to Vaavu Atoll, known for its unspoiled reefs. Snorkel with reef fish in the calm lagoon or drift dive through the “Golden Wall” coral canyon. Afternoon beach picnic on a private sandbank followed by stargazing on deck.
Day 3 – Keyodhoo Island & Local Encounters
Visit the fishing village of Keyodhoo, where children play along coral streets and dhonis bob at anchor. Learn about traditional boatbuilding and Maldivian lacquer craft. Return to the yacht for a sunset paddleboard session before dinner featuring freshly caught reef fish.
Day 4 – Meemu Atoll & Muli Channel
Sail south to Meemu Atoll (≈30 nm). Stop at Muli Channel, famed for manta cleaning stations and eagle rays. Your marine biologist leads a guided snorkel introducing reef behaviour and conservation projects. Evening yoga session on the foredeck as fruit bats cross the dusk sky.
Day 5 – Kolhufushi Island
Anchor off Kolhufushi, an island community renowned for coconut carpentry. Walk shaded paths beneath breadfruit trees and taste fresh toddy. Afternoon at leisure for kayaking or a family beach barbecue set up by the crew.
Day 6 – Thaa Atoll Outer Reef
A short morning sail (≈20 nm) to Thaa’s western rim. Dive or snorkel the “Five Rocks,” a site alive with soft corals and schools of bannerfish. Younger guests can join the marine guide for a fish-ID treasure hunt in the shallows.
Day 7 – Dolphin Passage & Uninhabited Cays
Cruise through open channels where spinner dolphins often gather. Pause for photographs and swimming alongside the bow. Picnic lunch on a deserted cay with shaded canopies and hammocks. Evening cocktails served under the awning as the wind drops.
Day 8 – Laamu Atoll Arrival
Enter Laamu Lagoon through its turquoise entrance channel (≈25 nm). Anchor off a sandbank near Gan Island. Afternoon snorkel among coral bommies, followed by a spa-inspired wellness dinner prepared by the onboard chef.
Day 9 – Laamu Reefs & Island Biking
Tender ashore to explore Gan by bicycle — quiet coconut roads, schoolhouses, and traditional mosques. Stop for a local-style lunch before a short afternoon sail to the southern reefs, perfect for beginner divers.
Day 10 – Private Sandbank Day
Spend a full day anchored near an uninhabited sandbank. The crew sets up shaded cabanas, a pop-up grill, and stand-up paddleboards. Relax, swim, nap, repeat. Sunset aperitifs are served with freshly made sushi and tropical fruit.
Day 11 – Laamu Lagoon & Farewell Dinner
Enjoy one last morning snorkel or join the chef for a Maldivian cooking demonstration. Afternoon slow cruise within the lagoon. The farewell dinner is served on deck — lanterns, soft music, and calm seas closing the voyage.
Day 12 – Disembarkation (Kadhdhoo Airport)
After breakfast, transfer by tender to Kadhdhoo Airport for your return flight or onward resort stay.