Maldive Dhoni Cruise

This week-long escorted tour with Explore Worldwide involves sailing between some of the Maldives' lesser-visited atolls aboard a traditional dhoni. Beginning in Male, the itinerary includes short walks to the mosque and fish market before boarding the boat for a gentle cruise through South Male and Vaavu Atolls. The turquoise waters here are often calm enough for snorkelling straight from the beach or sandbars.

Further south, the tour may reach Meemu Atoll or remain exploring Vaavu's reefs, spending nights near sandbanks with white coral beaches. Villages like Felidhoo and Fulidhoo offer an opportunity to meet locals following traditional island life, with the occasional chance to listen to Bodu Beru folk drums (except during Ramadan). Days mostly pass at a relaxed pace with swims over reefs spotting turtles, manta rays, and a variety of tropical fish.

Accommodation on the dhoni is simple but comfortable, with cabins for two and the option to sleep on deck under the stars. The route and timings often depend on local weather and tides, so flexibility is a must on this unhurried exploration of Maldivian island life.