MV Orion - Maldives Liveaboard
- Destination: Ari, North and South Male Atolls, Baa Atoll
- Trip Duration: 8 Day Safaris, August to June
- Total Dives: Up to 3 Dives per day
- Total Guests: 22 Guests
- Prices: from $1,820.00 U.S. per person
- Nitrox: Yes
- Internet Access: Yes
- Prices and Schedule
Completed in 2009 the MV Orion is one of newest and most luxurious super cruisers to arrive on the Maldives diving circuit. A wooden sailing yacht of Maldivian design she is 39 meters (130 ft.) long and accommodates a maximum of 22 guests in eleven luxurious en-suite and air conditioned cabins. With a choice of four configurations of en-suite cabins you will soon discover the level of service that sets the Orion apart from all but a few other liveaboards in the Maldives.
Boldly going where no liveaboard has gone before the Orion will take you to the edge and back again. One of the only liveaboards to travel between dive sites in the night time she reaches the outer most points and gets you further than any liveaboard in the archipelago. You might as well be Captain James T. Kirk on the helm of the Starship Enterprise exploring a new galaxy. The spirit of exploration is embodied by the young and talented team of multi-nationals that own and operate the Orion. One of the owners is present on every cruise to set the tone of the trip and ensure you receive an unforgetable Maldivian experience. On the Orion service is priority number one and it shows in the presentation and commitment to excellence of every crew member onboard.
The Orion offers nitrox diving and visits all the best sites of Ari Atoll and beyond. Complete with massage, cocktail lounge, sauna, steam room, and therapeutic jacuzzi. Pamper yourself with a truly unique and unforgettable Maldives liveaboard diving experience. A Dive Adventures Asia Luxury Liveaboard Top Pick!
Gallery | Prices and Cabin Selection | How to Get There | Schedule 2012 | Itinerary | Dive Map
A Cabin For Everyone
With 11 exquisitely appointed suites in four configurations there is a cabin to fulfill the needs of everyone. All suites have the feel of a 5 star luxury resort, ooze with ambience, and have either porthole or picture windows for added natural light. You are sure to enjoy your mini bar, plasma T.V., and room to room intercom. As an added bonus the the Master and Junior Suites also include a sunken bath tub. The owners of the liveaboard have spared no expense to create an environment that is inviting and luxurious.
The Orion Offers Four Cabin Choices: 1 Master Suite (King Size Bed - Upper Deck), 1 Junior Suite (Queen Size Bed / Twin Bed - Lower Deck), 8 Standard Suites (Queen / Twin Size Beds - Lower Deck), and 3 Mini Suites (Queen / Twin Size Beds - Upper Deck).
Each Suite is Furnished with the Following:
- Individually Controlled Air-Conditioning
- Private Bathroom and Toilet with Hot / Cold Water Walk In Shower
- Hand Basin and Bathroom Counter Space
- Toiletries and Towels
- Turn Down Service
- Bed Linens
- Mini Bar
- Bed Side Reading Lamp
- Wardrobe and Shelves
- Vanity Mirror
- Plasma T.V. and Entertainment System
- Intercom
- 3 pin 220V electricity ( international adaptor available)
- Luggage Space
The Master Suite and Junior Suite are outstanding it you want the ultimate in luxury and space, ideal for a couple or a romantic honeymoon. The Master Suite also sports a private outdoor jacuzzi for memorable moments overlooking the Indian Ocean. The best value for the money, would be the Lower Deck Double Bed Suites. On the Orion you can't go wrong with any cabin choice, the spaces are extremely well done and luxurious.
Entertainment, Dining, and Common Areas
One of the main features of the the Orion is her spacious outdoor bar and entertainment lounge on the rear upper deck. This area is finished in asian hard woods, has a full service bar with sea view, a therapeutic jacuzzi, sauna, steam room, massage services, and plenty of comfortable seating and tables. All the services you would expect from a super cruiser. The view, the richness of the woods, and all the services make you feel like your on a mega yacht surrounded in luxury. Combine this with the unbelievable scenery of the Maldives and you have arrived.
For a bit more privacy and a massive amount of space you sun lovers can make yourselves comfortable on the upper sun deck on one of the cozy over stuffed lounge chairs. This is the absolute best area of the liveaboard to brush up on your tan lines, or catch up on an afternoon nap.
The saloon, which is combined with the indoor dining area, is air-conditioned, tastefully decorated in asian hardwoods, and offers stunning views of the Indian Ocean. A variety of international and asian cuisine is prepared daily using fresh spices, fruits, vegetables, and seafood. All meals are served buffet style, so eat as much as you like. Coffee, Tea, and Snacks are always available between meal times free of charge. There is a full service bar where you can select from a list of fines wines, local and imported beers, and a variety of quality spirits.
The Orion Dining Features:
- Sri Lankan, Indian, Italian, and Western Cuisine
- Island BBQ when Weather and Route Permits.
- Meals Include Pre-Dive Morning Snack, Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, and a Variety Snacks Between Meals
- Biscuits, Toast, Cereal, Fruit, 1 Large Bottle of Fresh Water, Hot Tea, and Coffee are Complimentary
- Soft Drinks, Additional Bottled Water, Beer, Wine, and Alcohol are Available for Purchase
- Meals are Served Buffet Style in the Indoor Air-Conditioned Dining Area
- Vegetarian Diets are Catered to With Advance Notice.
The main deck indoor saloon also houses a home entertainment system including a TV, DVD and stereo. There is a small movie and music library as well as plenty of marine and general interest books for your use. The saloon has large picture windows with panoramic views and is a great area for socializing or relaxing in the evenings or afternoons. There is also a small camera charging area for all your photography and video equipment. Internet services are available throughout the cruise!
A Dive Dhoni with it All!
Diving activities are conducted from a 14 meter (45 ft.) custom built dive dhoni which will accommodate 22 divers in comfort. The dive dhoni is accompanied by a captain and dive staff. The dive dhoni is a fully functioning diving vessel that will provide fast and safe transfers to all the dive sites. As most of the dives in the Maldives are deeper than 18 meters (60 ft.), in moderate to strong current, it is recommended that divers complete the Advanced Open Water Course prior to arrival or have equivalent diving experience. The Orion has one of the most experienced and well known dive guides in the Maldives and he is always there to lend a helping hand.
Designed with comfort and convenience in mind, the dive dhoni is staffed and operated by experienced dive professionals with varied backgrounds. All dive personnel are specially trained in the marine ecology of the Maldives and are more than happy to show divers the local attractions as well as impart their knowledge of the local marine environment. The enthusiasm and dedication of the dive staff is evident in their interaction with guests, always with special attention on educating divers and promoting the safety and protection of the amazing ecosystem of the Maldives.
The Orion Dive Dhoni is Equipped with the Following:
- Camera Table
- Fresh Water Shower at the Rear
- Fresh Water Tank for Cameras
- Nitrox Blending Station
- Air Compressors
- Gear Rack
PADI Dive Courses and introductory dives are available upon request.
MV Orion Liveaboard Gallery
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Welcome Aboard |
Comfortable Indoor Area |
Rear Deck Outdoor Lounge |
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Delicious Buffet Meals |
Spacious Indoor Dining |
Full Service Cocktail Bar |
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Enjoy a Sauna or Steam Room |
Massive Sun Deck |
Therapeutic Jacuzzi |
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Covered and Shaded Areas |
Views All Around |
Cushioned Lounge Chairs |
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Luxurious Master Suite |
En-Suite Bathrooms |
Beautiful Junior Suite |
MV Orion Liveaboard Prices and Cabin Selection 2012
Season and Destination |
# Days |
Master Suite |
Junior Suite |
Mini Suite |
Standard Suite |
Full Charter |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Jan 1, 2012 to Apr 30, 2012 N. Male / Ari / S. Male N. Male / Huvadhoo / Kaadedhadhoo |
8D/7N |
$3,185.00 |
$2,940.00 |
$2,695.00 |
$2,450.00 |
|
| May 1, 2012 to May 31, 2012 N. Male / Ari / S. Male |
8D/7N |
$2,366.00 |
$2,184.00 |
$1,999.00 |
$1,820.00 |
|
| Jul 30, 2012 to Aug 31, 2012 N. Male / Baa / N. Ari / Rasdhoo |
8D/7N |
$3,185.00 |
$2,940.00 |
$2,695.00 |
$2,450.00 |
|
| Sep 1, 2012 to Sep 30, 2012 N. Male / Baa / N. Ari / Rasdhoo |
8D/7N |
$2,730.00 |
$2,520.00 |
$2,310.00 |
$2,100.00 |
|
| Oct 1, 2012 to Dec 31, 2012 N. Male / Baa / N. Ari / Rasdhoo N. Male / Ari / S. Male |
8D/7N |
$3,185.00 |
$2,940.00 |
$2,695.00 |
$2,450.00 |
Liveaboard Trip Prices Include: All prices are per person and include accommodation on board, all meals, most drinks (drinking water, coffee, tea, etc.), professional dive master services, scuba tanks, weights, weight belt, air, up to 3 dives per day, one night dive, BBQ on a deserted island when possible, the GST Tax of 6.0%, and the Maldivian bed tax. We also include greeting and transfer to and from Male International Airport and the liveaboard. Groups of 16 guests or more will receive an additional 2 extra spaces free of charge. Please contact Dive Adventures Asia for non-diver rate. The single supplement is 80% of the diver rate. Nitrox is free of charge!!
Additional Charges: Equipment rental and nitrox are not included in the above prices and can be paid for upon arrival. Equipment rental is $45 U.S. per day for a full set of equipment, depending on availability. PADI diving courses, and alcoholic beverages will also be paid for on the boat. Dive computers and safety sausage for every diver are obligatory in the Maldives and can be rented upon arrival.
Additional Activities and Services Available Upon Request:
- Nitrox Diving
- Dan Scuba Diving Insurance
- PADI Courses
- Sport Fishing
- Internet Services
- CD and DVD Burning
How to Get There: With so many international air carriers flying directly into Male, the capital city of the Maldives, there is no need to book your liveaboard trip as part of a package deal and pay hidden fees. The most cost effective way to dive the Maldives is to pick a liveaboard of interest and then book your flights directly to Male. You will be greeted in Male and transferred to your liveaboard. Its that easy!
There are direct flights from Europe, Asia, and the United States. If your flying from the U.S. the most direct route is via Singapore.
Maldives Liveaboard Trips Departing Weekly | Bookings, Enquiries, or Information- Contact Dive Adventures Asia
Reserve Your Space with Only a 30% Deposit and Pay the Balance 60 Days Prior to Departure
MV Orion Maldives Liveaboard Cruise Schedule 2012
January 2012
Trip Code |
Start Date |
End Date |
Duration |
Destination |
Dives Per Day |
Prices |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
O14 |
09-Jan-2012 |
16-Jan-2012 |
8D / 7N |
N. Male - Ari - S. Male |
Up to 3 |
 |
O15 |
16-Jan-2012 |
23-Jan-2012 |
8D / 7N |
N. Male - Ari - S. Male |
Up to 3 |
|
O16 |
30-Jan-2012 |
06-Feb-2012 |
8D / 7N |
N. Male - Ari - S. Male |
Up to 3 |
|
Cruises Depart Weekly | Enquiry | Book Now!
February 2012
Trip Code |
Start Date |
End Date |
Duration |
Destination |
Dives Per Day |
Prices |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
O19 |
06-Feb-2012 |
13-Feb-2012 |
8D / 7N |
N. Male - Ari - S. Male |
Up to 3 |
|
O20 |
27-Feb-2012 |
05-Mar-2012 |
8D / 7N |
N. Male - Huvahdo |
Up to 3 |
|
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March 2012
Trip Code |
Start Date |
End Date |
Duration |
Destination |
Dives Per Day |
Prices |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
O23 |
12-Mar-2012 |
19-Mar-2012 |
8D / 7N |
Huvahdo - N. Male |
Up to 3 |
|
O24 |
26-Mar-2012 |
02-Aor-2012 |
8D / 7N |
N. Male - Ari - S. Male |
Up to 3 |
|
Cruises Depart Weekly | Enquiry | Book Now!
April 2012
Trip Code |
Start Date |
End Date |
Duration |
Destination |
Dives Per Day |
Prices |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
O26 |
02-Apr-2012 |
09-Apr-2012 |
8D / 7N |
N. Male - Ari - S. Male |
Up to 3 |
|
O27 |
09-Apr-2012 |
16-Apr-2012 |
8D / 7N |
N. Male - Ari - S. Male |
Up to 3 |
|
O28 |
16-Apr-2012 |
23-Apr-2012 |
8D / 7N |
N. Male - Ari - S. Male |
Up to 3 |
|
O29 |
23-Apr-2012 |
30-Apr-2012 |
8D / 7N |
N. Male - Ari - S. Male |
Up to 3 |
|
Cruises Depart Weekly | Enquiry | Book Now!
May 2012
Trip Code |
Start Date |
End Date |
Duration |
Destination |
Dives Per Day |
Prices |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
O30 |
07-May-2012 |
14-May-2012 |
8D / 7N |
N. Male - Ari - S. Male |
Up to 3 |
|
O31 |
14-May-2012 |
21-May-2012 |
8D / 7N |
N. Male - Ari - S. Male |
Up to 3 |
|
O32 |
21-May-2012 |
28-May-2012 |
8D / 7N |
N. Male - Ari - S. Male |
Up to 3 |
|
Cruises Depart Weekly | Enquiry | Book Now!
July 2012
Trip Code |
Start Date |
End Date |
Duration |
Destination |
Dives Per Day |
Prices |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
O33 |
30-Jul-2012 |
06-Aug-2012 |
8D / 7N |
N. Male - Baa - N. Ari - Rasdhoo |
Up to 3 |
|
Cruises Depart Weekly | Enquiry | Book Now!
August 2012
Trip Code |
Start Date |
End Date |
Duration |
Destination |
Dives Per Day |
Prices |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
O34 |
06-Aug-2012 |
13-Aug-2012 |
8D / 7N |
N. Male - Baa - N. Ari - Rasdhoo |
Up to 3 |
|
O35 |
13-Aug-2012 |
20-Aug-2012 |
8D / 7N |
N. Male - Baa - N. Ari - Rasdhoo |
Up to 3 |
|
O36 |
20-Aug-2012 |
27-Aug-2012 |
8D / 7N |
N. Male - Baa - N. Ari - Rasdhoo |
Up to 3 |
|
Cruises Depart Weekly | Enquiry | Book Now!
September 2012
Trip Code |
Start Date |
End Date |
Duration |
Destination |
Dives Per Day |
Prices |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
O37 |
03-Sep-2012 |
10-Sep-2012 |
8D / 7N |
N. Male - Baa - N. Ari - Rasdhoo |
Up to 3 |
|
O38 |
10-Sep-2012 |
17-Sep-2012 |
8D / 7N |
N. Male - Baa - N. Ari - Rasdhoo |
Up to 3 |
|
O39 |
24-Sep-2012 |
01-Oct-2012 |
8D / 7N |
N. Male - Baa - N. Ari - Rasdhoo |
Up to 3 |
|
Cruises Depart Weekly | Enquiry | Book Now!
October 2012
Trip Code |
Start Date |
End Date |
Duration |
Destination |
Dives Per Day |
Prices |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
O40 |
01-Oct-2012 |
08-Oct-2012 |
8D / 7N |
N. Male - Baa - N. Ari - Rasdhoo |
Up to 3 |
|
O41 |
08-Oct-2012 |
15-Oct-2012 |
8D / 7N |
N. Male - Ari - S. Male |
Up to 3 |
|
O42 |
15-Oct-2012 |
22-Oct-2012 |
8D / 7N |
N. Male - Ari - S. Male |
Up to 3 |
|
Cruises Depart Weekly | Enquiry | Book Now!
November 2012
Trip Code |
Start Date |
End Date |
Duration |
Destination |
Dives Per Day |
Prices |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
O43 |
19-Nov-2012 |
26-Nov-2012 |
8D / 7N |
N. Male - Ari - S. Male |
Up to 3 |
|
O44 |
26-Nov-2012 |
03-Dec-2012 |
8D / 7N |
N. Male - Ari - S. Male |
Up to 3 |
|
Cruises Depart Weekly | Enquiry | Book Now!
December 2012
Trip Code |
Start Date |
End Date |
Duration |
Destination |
Dives Per Day |
Prices |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
O45 |
03-Dec-2012 |
10-Dec-2012 |
8D / 7N |
N. Male - Ari - S. Male |
Up to 3 |
|
O46 |
10-Dec-2012 |
17-Dec-2012 |
8D / 7N |
N. Male - Ari - S. Male |
Up to 3 |
|
O47 |
17-Dec-2012 |
24-Dec-2012 |
8D / 7N |
N. Male - Ari - S. Male |
Up to 3 |
|
O48 |
24-Dec-2012 |
31-Dec-2012 |
8D / 7N |
N. Male - Ari - S. Male |
Up to 3 |
|
O49 |
31-Dec-2012 |
07-Jan-2013 |
8D / 7N |
N. Male - Ari - S. Male |
Up to 3 |
|
Cruises Depart Weekly | Enquiry | Book Now!
MV Orion Maldives Itinerary
The itinerary of the Orion is meant to deliver the best diving of the Maldives within the time allotted for the liveaboard cruise. Her schedule will consist primarily of 8 Day / 7 Night cruises to the best dive sites around Ari, North Male, and South Male Atolls. All Orion liveaboard cruises will depart from Hulhule harbor near the capital city of Male.
Sample Itinerary
Day of Boarding (First Day on the Orion)
Morning or afternoon flight to Male International Airport, pick up and transfer from the airport by speed boat or dive dhoni (depending on sea conditions the boat ride takes about 10 minutes). You should try to arrive as close to 12:00 noon as possible. If you have an earlier or later flight pick up is possible all day long on the day of arrival. Some guests will arrive the day before boarding and stay at a nearby hotel on Male or Hulhule.
Diving Days (Depending on the length of the Cruise)
- Up to 3 Dives per Day
- 1 Night Dive per Cruise When Possible
Day of Departure ( Last Day on the Orion)
Morning breakfast and gear packing, then transfer by boat to the Male International Airport around 8:00 a.m. to connect with your departing flight.
Note: This does not represent an exact itinerary, it is approximate only. Every cruise is different. Itineraries depend on current conditions, time of year, weather, captain, cruise director, and guest preferences. We do our best to put you at the best sites possible on every dive.
We take no responsibility for scheduling or itinerary changes due to changing weather, political situations, natural disasters or other events beyond our control. We strongly recommend that you purchase travel insurance for any kind of trip you do anywhere in the world. We also recommend that you have DAN or other diving accident insurance up to date and current in case of an unanticipated evacuation or other treatment that may not be covered by your regular insurance.
Maldives Dive Map
Maldives Liveaboard Trips Departing Weekly | Bookings, Enquiries, or Information- Contact Dive Adventures Asia