The Maldives is one of the Indian Ocean’s crown jewels for superyacht exploration. With crystal-clear lagoons, remote atolls, and discreet anchorages, the country offers what the Med and Caribbean often cannot: seclusion wrapped in natural beauty.

Guests can cruise from private resort islands to untouched sandbanks or uninhabited islands in a single day, choosing between world-class service or complete isolation. 

“When we started servicing visiting yachts in the Maldives 20 years ago, we saw just a handful each year, mostly over the peak holiday season. Today, the picture is very different. With 50+ visiting superyachts annually, some stretching to 150 metres, the Maldives has firmly established itself as one of the most desirable cruising destinations in the world,” says Asia Pacific Superyachts Maldives Managing Director, Mohamed Hameed.

The visiting period has also expanded from November to May, he noted yachts are staying longer, 45-60 days on average. Throughout his career Mohamed and his team have assisted some of the biggest yachts in the world on their voyages around the country: these include 126m Octopus, 115m Pelorus, 107m Andromeda, Starlust and Wanderlust yachts, as well as 147m A+ and 123m Al Lusail. 

Great news is on the horizon, reports Mohamed, with the announcement of Atoll Estates’ new Zamani Islands project; eight islands stretching across a vast natural lagoon, home to the country’s first purpose-built superyacht marina and yacht club.

Effortless entry, longer stays

The Maldives is rolling out the welcome mat for superyachts like never before. Regulations have been fine-tuned to make arrivals simple and stays longer:

• 90-day cruising permits are easily available, with vessels under 20 metres enjoying this period free of charge.
• Larger yachts can secure the same permit for just a fraction compared to other destinations in the region. 
• Streamlined local agency rules ensure yachts have expert Maldivian support from the moment they arrive.

Experiences like nowhere else in the world

A yachting season in the Maldives offers a blend of adventure and indulgence few destinations can match:

• Island-hopping across 26 atolls, each with its own hidden lagoons, coral reefs, and powder-white beaches.
• World-class diving and snorkelling; from manta ray encounters in Baa Atoll to swimming with whale sharks in Ari Atoll.
• Exclusive access to five-star resorts, many with options for fine dining by world-renowned chefs.
• The chance to stage private sandbank dinners, water sports adventures – creating unforgettable guest itineraries.
• For owners & guests, charter guests, and captains & crew alike – the Maldives combines privacy, luxury, and natural beauty in perfect harmony.

The ultimate yachting destination

With its extended cruising season (November to May), easy regulations, and the promise of unforgettable experiences both above and below the waterline, the Maldives is no longer just a stopover, it is the destination.

The Maldives is proving itself as the Indian Ocean’s crown jewel for superyachts and whether anchored in a turquoise lagoon, moored at a luxury resort or when exploring remote atolls, every voyage in the Maldives promises to be extraordinary

Navigating the Maldives

The prime cruising season runs from November to May when calm seas and endless sunshine transform the waters into an owner’s dream. Unlike crowded marinas elsewhere, the Maldives invites you to chart your own course across 26 atolls and 1,000+ islands, with anchorages that feel like they were reserved just for you. For those seeking both luxury and privacy, there is simply no better horizon.

Regulations spotlight: what captains need to know

Before dropping anchor, a few essentials:

Clearance & Permits: All yachts must clear in at an official port of entry (Malé, Uligan or Addu). Immigration and customs are straightforward with Asia Pacific Superyachts as your trusted agent. Note: advance paperwork is required for seamless inward clearance.

Protected Zones: Due to your agent providing you with a KMZ file along with the Summary & Guidelines for the Protected Areas, you will be able to view all protected areas on the KMZ file via Google Earth; showing all boundaries, point coordinates and descriptions.

Experiences afloat: Beyond diving

Yes, the Maldives is a diver’s paradise; but yachting here opens up many more experiences few can ever dream of, like: 

• Swimming with whale sharks: swim alongside marine biologists that guide conservation projects.
• High-end resort hopping in style: step ashore at exclusive islands for Michelin-starred dining, world-class spas and private overwater villas, with the luxury of returning to your yacht each night. Wellness on deck can include sunrise yoga and Ayurvedic spa treatments. 
• Traditional Maldivian fishing at Sunset: experience fishing the way locals have for centuries, using hand lines at dusk, followed by a chef-prepared feast of your own catch under the stars.
• Aerial Perspectives: Superyachts equipped with helipads take flight for a bird’s-eye view of the atolls.
• Conservation Cruises: Collaborate with NGOs for hands-on coral restoration, turtle rescues, or reef clean-ups; a chance to leave a positive footprint in paradise. 

Cultural Shores: Immersing in the Real Maldives

Beyond the turquoise lagoons and overwater villas lies a rich island culture. Visit local fishing villages, hear the pulse of Bodu Beru drumming, and taste mas huni (a traditional tuna and coconut dish). Yachts that embrace cultural immersion find the Maldives even more unforgettable.

Quick tips: Owners, captains

Best Season: November-May.

Fuel & Supplies: Limited outside Malé / central area; thus, plan ahead with your agent for provisioning and refueling.

Resort Access: Many luxury resorts welcome yachts though they will charge for entrance or day-use fees. Thus, plan and book in advance for dining/spa access.

Connectivity: Internet via local SIM card providers (Dhiraagu or Ooredoo) is fast and reliable.

Hidden Gems: Remote atolls like Haa Alif, Haa Dhaalu, Laamu, and Gaafu are pristine and far less visited than central atolls. Your agent can assist with those of highest interest.

Stay Anchored with APS. With APS as your trusted agent, enjoy a seamless, worry-free Maldivian cruise and guests can simply indulge in luxury while every detail is managed behind the scenes.  For further information and planning of a unique itinerary, email mohamed@asia-pacific-superyachts.com

www.asia-pacific-superyachts.com/maldives