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Mv Orion liveaboard

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MV Orion is the Mv Orionnewest vessel in the Maldives at this time. Not only are the facilities new, but they go beyond all expectations with guaranteed trip departures, 24-hour conciege service coupled with service and facilities that will blow your mind. Indulge in a massage on deck or enjoy the comforts of our 2 fully-stocked bars or bask in the sun while relaxing in the jacuzzi after a sauna. Catering to a possible 22 guests our 11 guest rooms (1 Junior Suite, 6 Double Rooms, 3 Twin Rooms and 1 Executive Suite) they are all furnished with the luxury and ambience of a MaldivianMv Orion private jacuzzi deck luxury resort including wireless internet.  Every room comprises of double/twin beds, a mini-bar, room to room intercom, Plasma Tv where you can view the real time gps information for your journey from the comfort of your bed, electronic combination safe, as well as beautifully tiled bathrooms.  All 11 rooms have en suite toilet and shower facilities, with 2 of the 11 rooms having the added luxury of bathtubs.  At the front of the Upper Deck is a magnificent executive suite, which comes with its own personal external deck area complete with private open air Jacuzzi. We also offer fun onshore activities as we take over our own uninhabited desert island for an afternoon of fun in the sun - Mv Orion photos

The Maldives

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The Maldives, Map of the Maldivesofficially the Republic of Maldives, is an island country consisting of a group of atolls stretching south of India's Lakshadweep islands between Minicoy Island and the Chagos Archipelago, and about seven hundred kilometres (435 mi) south-west of Sri Lanka in the Laccadive Sea of Indian Ocean. The twenty-six atolls of Maldives encompass a territory featuring 1,192 islets, of which two hundred islands are inhabited.
The original inhabitants were Buddhist, probably since Ashoka's period,in the 3rd century BC. Islam was introduced in 1153. The Maldives then came under the influence of the Portuguese (1558) and the Dutch (1654) seaborne empires. In 1887 it became a British protectorate. In 1965, the Maldives obtained independence from Britain (originally under the name "Maldive Islands"), and in 1968 the Sultanate was replaced by a Republic.
The Maldives is the smallest Asian country in terms of both population and area; it is the smallest predominantly Muslim nation in the world. With an average ground level of 1.5 metres (4 ft 11 in) above sea level, it is also the country with the lowest highest point in the world, at 2.3 metres (7 ft 7 in).

Population: 369,031 (2007)
Climate: Tropical, Average 30 Deg C
Access: Scheduled and Charter flights from around the world.
Time Zone:  Maldives is on the Standard Time Zone, GMT+5 hours with no daylight savings time.
Currency: Maldivian currency is in the form of rufiyaa and laree’s. American dollars, traveler's checks and major credit card are widely accepted.
Clothing
Maldives is a fairly laid back, relaxed environment, therefore, T-shirts and shorts are the usual attire due to the warm, sunny days.  Evenings can be cooler, so bring along a light sweater or shawl. There are no dress requirements aboard Orion and cotton clothing is best for most occasions. However, when on land modest clothing and covered shoulders are recommended in order to respect the culture of our hosts.  Comfortable shoes or sandals are recommended for land tours, shoes are not worn onboard the vessel.  For easy luggage storage, we recommend you use a soft duffle bag for packing.   Some airlines give a special allowance for dive gear, however, this should be checked out at the time of booking.
Scheduled airlines to the Maldives:
Name of Airlines Country of Origin
Aeroflot Russia
Air Seychelles Seychelles
Bangkok Airways Thailand
British Airways United Kingdom
Condor Germany
Emirates United Arab Emirates
Eurofly Spa Italy
Indian Airlines India
Air Berlin Germany
Lauda Air Italy
Malaysian Airlines Malaysia
Singapore Airlines Singapore
Srilankan Airlines Sri Lanka
Qatar Airways Qatar
Charter flight airlines to the Maldives:
Name of Airlines Country of Origin
Air Italy Italy
Blue Panorama Italy
Edelweiss Air Switzerland
Monarch Airways United Kingdom
Neos Air Italy
Swiss International Air Lines
Switzerland
Thomas Airways United Kingdom
Transaero Airlines Russia
XL Airways France

Mv Orion - Schedule

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Tour Code
Departure Date
End Date
Nights
Area Toured
MVO09/15
28th Dec 2009
7th Jan 2010
10
5 Atolls Photo Special
MVO09/16
8th Jan 2010
18th Jan 2010
10
Maldives Eclipse Tour
MVO09/17
18th Jan 2010
25th Jan 2010
7
Ari/N.Male/S.Male
MVO10/01
25th Jan 2010
1st Feb 2010
7
Ari/N.Male/S.Male
MVO10/02
1st Feb 2010
8th Feb 2010
7
Ari/N.Male/S.Male
MVO10/03
8th Feb 2010
15th Feb 2010
7
Ari/N.Male/S.Male
MVO10/04
15th Feb 2010
22nd Feb 2010
7
Ari/N.Male/S.Male
MVO10/05
22nd Feb 2010
1st Mar 2010
7
Ari/N.Male/S.Male
MVO10/06
1st Mar 2010 
14th Mar 2010
14
South Tour
MVO10/07
15th Mar 2010
22nd Mar 2010 
7
Ari/N.Male/S.Male
MVO10/08
22nd Mar 2010 
29th Mar 2010 
7
Ari/N.Male/S.Male
MVO10/09
29th Mar 2010 
5th April 2010 
7
Ari/N.Male/S.Male
MVO10/10
5th April 2010 
12th April 2010 
7
Ari/N.Male/S.Male
MVO10/11
12th April 2010 
19th April 2010 
7
Ari/N.Male/S.Male
MVO10/12
19th April 2010 
26th April 2010 
7
Ari/N.Male/S.Male
MVO10/13
26th April 2010 
3rd May 2010 
7
Ari/N.Male/S.Male
MVO10/14
3rd May 2010 
12th May 2010
9
Ari/N.Male/S.Male
MVO10/15
12th May 2010
17th May 2010
5
Ari/N.Male/S.Male
MVO10/16
17th May 2010
24th May 2010
7
Ari/N.Male/S.Male
MVO10/17
24th May 2010
31st May 2010
7
Ari/N.Male/S.Male
MVO10/17
30th May 2010
6th June 2010
7
Ari/N.Male/S.Male
Dry dock from end of May to mid August
MVO10/18
10th August 2010
19th August 2010
9
Ari/N.Male/S.Male
MVO10/19
19th August 2010
26th August 2010
7
Ari/N.Male/S.Male
MVO10/20
26th August 2010
6th September 2010
11
Ari/N.Male/S.Male
MVO10/21
6th September 2010
13th September 2010
7
Ari/N.Male/S.Male
MVO10/22
13th September 2010
20th September 2010
7
Ari/N.Male/S.Male
MVO10/23
20th September 2010
27th September 2010
7
Ari/N.Male/S.Male
MVO10/24
27th September 2010
4th October 2010
7
Ari/N.Male/S.Male
MVO10/25
4th October 2010
11th October 2010
7
Ari/N.Male/S.Male
MVO10/26
11th October 2010
18th October 2010
7
Ari/N.Male/S.Male
MVO10/27
18th October 2010
25th October 2010
7
Ari/N.Male/S.Male
MVO10/28
25th October 2010
1st November 2010
7
Ari/N.Male/S.Male
MVO10/29
1st November 2010
8th November 2010
7
Ari/N.Male/S.Male
MVO10/30
8th November 2010
15th November 2010
7
Ari/N.Male/S.Male
MVO10/31
15th November 2010
22nd November 201
7
Ari/N.Male/S.Male
MVO10/32
22nd November 201
29th November 2010
7
Ari/N.Male/S.Male
MVO10/33
29th November 2010
6th December 2010
7
Ari/N.Male/S.Male
MVO10/34
6th December 2010
13th December 2010
7
Ari/N.Male/S.Male
MVO10/35
13th December 2010
20th December 2010
7
Ari/N.Male/S.Male
MVO10/36
20th December 2010
27th December 2010
7
Ari/N.Male/S.Male
2011
MVO10/37
27th December 2010
3rd January 2011
7
Ari/N.Male/S.Male
MVO10/38
3rd January 2011
10th January 2011
7
Ari/N.Male/S.Male
MVO11/01
10th January 2011
17th January 2011
7
Ari/N.Male/S.Male
MVO11/02
17th January 2011
24th January 2011
7
Ari/N.Male/S.Male
MVO11/03
24th January 2011
31st January 2011
7
Ari/N.Male/S.Male
MVO11/04
31st January 2011
7th February 2011
7
Ari/N.Male/S.Male
MVO11/05
7th February 2011
14th February 2011
7
Ari/N.Male/S.Male
MVO11/06
21st February 2011
28th February 2011
7
Ari/N.Male/S.Male
MVO11/07
28th February 2011
7th March 2011
7
Ari/N.Male/S.Male
MVO11/08
7th March 2011
17th March 2011
10
Southern Sharks
MVO11/09
17th March 2011
24th March 2011
7
Southern Sharks
MVO11/10
24th March 2011
4th April 2011
11
Southern Sharks
MVO11/11
4th April 2011
12th April 2011
7
Ari/N.Male/S.Male
MVO11/12
11th April 2011
18th April 2011
7
Ari/N.Male/S.Male
MVO11/13
18th April 2011
25th April 2011
7
Ari/N.Male/S.Male
MVO11/14
25th April 2011
2nd May 2011
7
Ari/N.Male/S.Male
MVO11/15
2nd May 2011
11th May 2011
9
Ari/N.Male/S.Male
MVO11/16
11th May 2011
18th May 2011
7
Ari/N.Male/S.Male
MVO11/17
18th May 2011
25th May 2011
7
Ari/N.Male/S.Male
MVO11/18
25th May 2011
1st June 2011
7
Ari/N.Male/S.Male
MVO11/19
25th May 2011
1st June 2011
7
Ari/N.Male/S.Male

Mv Orion - Itinerary

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Mv Orion leaves from and returns to Male but doesn't follow a set itinerary as it's all about the giving you the best diving possible and finding the whalesharks. As you may know the Maldives has 2 very distinct currents running at different times of Mv Orion will do her best to find you a whalesharkthe year and this effects which side of the Maldives all the marine life is on at any particular time. Basically, dependant on the currents and the winds, we will select the route and dive sites, this is how we can offer you our Whaleshark Guarantee promotion - no whale shark and you will receive 20% off your next trip with us on Mv Orion.
Our divemasters are very experienced in the hunt for whale sharks, one of them is a Marine Biologist, she has been studying whalesharks for years, and Hassan, our Maldivian guide very rarely fails to find them.
Don't worry that you might miss the other stuff though; Mv Orion visits the best dive sites in the area to see sharks, mantas and all the schools of fishes and stunning reefs that the Maldives are famous for just like any other boat but we will also try really hard, and normally succeed, to find you a whale shark. It is the experience of a lifetime to swim with one of these gentle giants - don't forget to bring your snorkel as you never know when we may run across one of these giants.
Out normal route covers dive sites in the areas of North Male - Rasdhoo - North Ari - South Ari - South Male
However we reserve the right to change it dependant on the conditions and prevaling currents.
On the last day there is a free trip around Male to experience a little of the culture and life that makes this oasis in the Indian Ocean so unique.

Mv Orion - Specifications, boat details and services

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Mv Orion - Maldives safari boatBoat:
Length: 130Ft
Engine: 600HP Volvo
Berthing
Lower Deck
6 double rooms with Queen size bed - en-suite Shower
1 Junior Suite with Queen Bed and extra day bed and bathtub
Upper Deck
3 Twin Rooms with en-suite Shower
1 Executive suite with bath tub, private external area and private 2 person Jacuzzi outside.Mv Orion - view of the sundeck

All rooms are en-suite, with minibar, digital safe, Plasma TV and DVD player.
Boat Crew:  9
Massage: 1
Dhoani Crew: 4
Diving Crew:   3 at all times with a mix of British, Maldivian,
Japanese, Italian, Spanish, and Singaporean crew, dependant
on the guests onboard.

Mv Orion's layout
Lower Deck - Junior Suite, 6 Double Rooms
Mv Orion's lower deck
Main Deck - Hotel Style Reception area with Library, Sauna, Wheelhouse, Kitchen, 2 Toilets, Bar, Souvenir Shop, Buffet and Dining Area.
Mv Orion's Main deck
Upper Deck - External Bar, Main Jacuzzi, Spa / Massage Room, Toilet, 3 Twin rooms, Executive Suite with private deck area and private open air Jacuzzi.
Mv Orion's upper deck
Sun deck - Sun loungers and relaxation area
Mv Orion's sun deck
Mv Orion
is equipped with satellite phone and internet, so it is in constant communication withReception area - Mv Orion liveaboard the outside world.
We are also equipped with a complete first aid kit on board,including oxygen. MV Orion’s crew is also trained to administer CPR if necessary.
Due to legal reasons we are unable to give painkillers or motion sickness medicine; therefore you should bring your own if you feel you may need it. We highly recommend a complete physical examination prior to your trip.
There is no smoking allowed inside the yacht or on the dive deck. Smoking is only permitted on the sun deck.
As diving is a very physical sport, we recommend you have a complete physical check-up prior to your trip.  Two recompression chambers are available in the Maldives. One is on Bandos Island Dining area - Mv Orion liveaboard(fifteen minutes by speedboat from Male) and the other is in Kuramathi. DAN special insurance may be obtained whilst aboard the vessel, if you do not already have cover, as this is compulsory under Maldivian Law. Vaccinations are not necessary.
Enviroment and conservation:
The Maldives is a heritage marine conservation site. Please help us take care of this delicately balanced eco-system by refraining from dropping litter, batteries, plastic bottles, etc.  Please, also, respect any living thing, either on land or beneath the sea.  We live and love our environment – let’s keep it safe for our future generations!  We do not permit spear fishing, Hawaiian slings or collecting of any materials.  Leave only your footprints – take only photos.Mv Orion diving area
Meals
The menu onboard is varied and plentiful, with America, European, Asian andLocal fusion feasts being served in our dining area. A buffet variety of fresh fruits and salads, hot entrees, hot soup, and juicesare available during meals. Lunches are buffet-style while dinners are a la carte creations, including seafood, beef or chicken .Vegetarianmeals can be prepared upon requests. We appreciate if you inform us on your preference for vegetarian meals to ensure we whip up something tasty.  Each evening, enjoy fresh homemade desserts. Please notify our office of your  special dietary requests and speak to the Chef after boarding.
BeveragesMv Orion has a great selection of wines and beers
Tea, Coffee, and Water are complimentary. The bar is open throughout the week; however, please observe our strict policy on alcohol – “Alcohol and diving never mix”. Once you consume any alcohol, your diving ceases for that day.
It should be noted that the importation of alcohol is forbidden in the Maldives. Tourist operators are able to purchase by special government license. Mv Orion has a fully stocked bar with a good, selection of beer, wine, whisky, scotch, rum, gin and vodka. 

Spa and massage
For your total relaxation, we offer you an onboard Jacuzzi and a Sauna. We also provide aMv Orion dining chargeable service by our fully qualified Thai Masseuse, trained in aromatherapy; Thai Massage, as well as reflexology and relief therapy; pedicure and manicure.
Swedish Massage – Aromatherapy
Healing strokes, skin rolling and thumb and palm pressure techniques combine to calm your mind and eliminate stress - Duration 60 minutes Us$ 50
Thai Massage
The East Royal Thai massage, unrivalled among Thai massages is guaranteed to soothe; enveloping you in a cocoon of calm and serenity - Duration 60 minutes Us$ 50
Oriental Massage – AromatherapyMv Orion reception
Blending the best of the Swedish and the Thai massages creates this blissful and unforgettable experience.
Duration 60 minutes Us$ 50
Shiatsu massage
This traditional Japanese massage applies deep strokes with the fingertips. The deep relaxation resulting from the treatment is enhanced by the herbal oils, leaves and seeds applied on the body - Duration 60 minutes Us$ 50
Back, Neck & Shoulder Rub
Stress fades away while you immerse yourself in this deep tissue massage for the back, neck and shoulders. Idealdaily treatment for diver - Duration 40 minutes Us$ 50Orion's beach bar-b-que
Reflexology / Foot Massage
Reflexology adjusts your body’s flow of energy, restoring its natural equilibrium. In this massage, pressure points are rubbed smoothly to relax you and relieve pain. The success of this technique is based on the fact that the body’s energy flows through meridians or channels to the hands and feet, where it leaves through reflex points - Duration 25 minutes Us$ 30
Full Body Scrub
A combination of sea salts or blended herbs gently exfoliates your skin, bringing back its natural glow.  The ingredients nourish and hydrate your skin, making it look younger and fresher. Scrubbing is a relaxing way of increasing blood circulation and detoxifying your body. Orion beach bar-b-queThe treatment would not be complete without the shower and soothing neck and back massage that follow - Duration 60 minutes Us$ 50
Deluxe Facial
The technique commences with a 30 minute back massage using aromatherapy oils, which is then followed by a 40 minute facial. This results in total relaxation and skin rejuvenation, ensuring a fresh and healthy skin tone and revitalized look - Duration 70 minutes Us$ 50

MV Orion Shop
There is a mini-shop onboard with assorted t-shirts and miscellaneous items. However, we strongly recommend that guests board MV Orion with all the necessary batteries, toiletries and camera/computer Orion's lower deck seating areaaccessories for the length of the cruise, as we are unable to guarantee enough stock for everyone.
MV Orion accepts: Cash in: USD, Euro, GBP and Rufiyaa - Traveller’s checks - Visa & MasterCard*.
*Credit card users: Several credit cards companies charge a conversion fee. If this happens to you, please contact your credit card company.
Tips
Gratuities are encouraged but are voluntary and based upon the quality of service your crew has provided. When settling your bill at the end of the charter, there will be 2 envelopes for gratuities, 1 for Dive Crew and 1 for Boat Crew, which will be divided equally among the respective members.Mv Orion's front seating area
Communication
MV Orion is equipped with satellite phone and internet, therefore, it is in constant communication with the outside world.
In the event of an emergency, family and friends may contact you at the above numbers.
Special occassions
If there is a special occasion such as Birthday or an anniversary coming up during the trip please let us know in advance. We are delighted to arrange a cake, which will be provided complimentary by the Company.
Electricity:  Orion's sundeck
Plugs are the type G and 3 prongs.  MV Orion has 220V and 110V to accommodate a variety of guests’ requirements.

Final day
On the final evening Mv Orion will return to port to provision and refuel for the following charter.
Check out and departure
Checkout time is between 10:00 and 11:00 a.m. on the final day (Normally Monday). The crew will transport you to the Airport to check bags into storage. After which you will take a ferry to Male for a city tour. If you are travelling later in the day you may consider a day room pass at a local hotel such as the Hulhule Island Hotel which is the closest to the airport. Normal day passes are for 12 hours and include use of the swimming pool, shower, towels, luggage storage etc., depending on which hotel you choose.

Mv Orion - Cabins

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Mv Orion has 11 guest rooms; 1 Junior Suite, 6 Double Rooms, 3 Twin Rooms and 1 Executive Suite. They are all furnished with the luxury and ambience of a Maldivian luxury resort in mind.  Every room comprises of double or twin beds, a mini-bar, room to room intercom, Plasma Tv where you can view the real time gps information for your journey from the comfort of your bed, electronic combination safe, as well as beautifully tiled bathrooms.  All 11 rooms have en suite toilet and shower facilities, with 2 of the 11 rooms having the added luxury of bathtubs (The junior and executive suites). At the front of the Upper Deck is a magnificent executive suite, which comes with its own personal external deck complete with private open air Jacuzzi - More Orion photos
Mv Orion's Executive suite
Executive suite
Mv Orion's Executive suite's private jacuzzi
The private jacuzzi

Mv Orion's Executive suite
Executive suite
Orion's Executive suite's bathroom
Executive suite bathroom
Orion's Executive suite's bathroom
Executive suite bathroom

Orion's Executive suite's bathroom
Executive suite bathroom
Junior suite - Mv Orion liveaboard
Junior suite
Junior suite bathroom
Junior suite bathroom

Junior suite - Mv Orion liveaboard
Junior suite
Double room - Mv Orion
Double room
Double room - Mv Orion
Double room bathroom
Lower Deck:
1 Jr Suite, 6 Double Rooms

Upper Deck:
3 Twin Rooms, 1 Executive Suite with private deck area and private open air Jacuzzi.

Mv Orion - Prices

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Prices are based on twin share and in Us dollars
Cabin
1 Jan 10 - 31 Apr 2010
Per week
1st May - 30th Oct 2010
Per week
1 Nov 10 - 31 Apr 11
Per week
Executive suite
$ 2,500
$ 1,650
$ 2,820
Junior suite
$ 2,300
$ 1,500
$ 2,590

Double / Twin

$ 2,090
$ 1,350
$ 2,350
Full charter
$5,200 / $ 36,400
$4500 / $ 31,500
$5,500 / $ 38,500
Reception - Mv OrionSingle suppliment is 30% on top of the individual rate - Nitrox $150
Non-divers pay full price but get 2 free discover scuba and 2 free massages

The price Includes:
1 -  3 - 4 dives per day
2 -  Tank and weights
3 -  Dive Instructor
4 -  Full Board (3 meals)
5 -  Full Accommodation
6 -  Coffee and Tea 24 hrs
7 -  One bottle mineral water per person per dayDining on Mv Orion
8-  Fishing; using fishing gear – Local style, including hook, fishing line, weight and baits
9 -  Visiting dessert islands(BBQ dinner; Depends on weather conditions and an extra USD5.00 will be charged for the entry fee of island).
10 - Snorkeling
11 - Bed Tax
12 - Free Guide for shopping in Male’ (Capital of Maldives)
13 - Transport (Airport – Boat – Airport )
14 - Jacuzzi
15 - Sauna

Don't forget to check our deals page for our cheap Maldives offers

Full charter price
for all cabins and a maximum amount of 20 guests is Orion's buffet area
$ 5,200 a day for November to April 2010 inclusive and
$ 4,500 for May, August, September and October 2010.
Group bookings:
October09 and May 2010

10 people pay for 9  (1 free)
16 people pay for 14 (2 free)
November – April
16 people pay for 14 (2 free)

CERTIFICATION & SPECIALTY COURSES
Diver Training (PADI/SDI/TDI) 
Introductory Dives
Discover Scuba Diving
USD  89
Certification Courses
Scuba Diver (2 Dive Package with Instructor)
USD 250
Open Water Diver (4 Dive Package with Instructor)
USD 380
Open Water Referral Dives
USD 250
Continuing Education Courses
Adventure Diver
USD 240
Advanced Open Water Diver
USD 350
Specialty Courses
Enriched Air Diver (Nitrox)
USD 100
Night Diver
USD 180
Deep Diver
USD 280
Drift Diver 
USD 180
Peak Performance Buoyancy 
USD 180
Master Scuba Diver (any 5 specialties)
USD 900
*NOTE: Materials + Certification not included due to exchange rate fluctuations.  Enquire for latest price upon booking.

Rental dive equipment
Diving Equipment Rentals (USD)
Per day
Per week
Full Set (regulator, octopus, BCD, wetsuit, mask, fins, dive computer)
$ 40
$ 280
Regulator with octopus
$ 20
$ 140
Computer
$ 15
$ 105
BCD
$ 15
$ 105
Wetsuit 1.5mm 
$ 10
$ 70
Mask
$   5
$ 35
Fins (+ booties as required)
$   5
$ 35
Surface Market Buoy (SMB) + Reel
$ 10
$ 70
Torch
$ 20
$ 140
*NOTE: All divers must carry a Surface Marker Buoy (SMB) and dive computer on every diveOrion's dining room
Should you wish to hire any diving equipment, as above, please ensure you book within 30 days of your charter.
Special Occasions:
If there is a special occasion such as Birthday or a anniversary coming up during the trip please let us know in advance to arrange the cake for the special occasion, which will be provided free of charge.
Arrival and boarding
It is recommended to fly into the Male International Airport (MLE) on the day that your charter starts.
The airport is a ten-minute boat ride from the capital, Male. If you arrive on the day of your charter, you will be greeted at the airport and transported to MV Orion on our Diving Dhoni. If you flyOrion's dining area in prior to your charter date, you should meet in the airport arrival area at a pre-arranged time on the day of departure. Our Crew will have a sign that says “MV Orion”. Please notify us of your arrival time and / or hotel reservations 30 days prior to travelling. MV Orion anchors off Male about 15 minutes from the airport.
Passports and documentation
Visitors must have a current passport (valid for at least six months on arrival), adequate funds to support themselves and a return airline ticket to travel to the Maldives. Visas are issued upon arrival. It is the travellers’ responsibility to ensure they have the proper documentation to travel to the destination and return to their country. Please check with the appropriate consulate to ensure you have the proper documentation. Always check your passport and visa requirements. We cannot assume responsibility for passengers not having correct documentation.

Mv Orion - Diving

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Maldives diving conditions
The climate is warm year round and determined by the monsoons. The monsoons are mild and not as defined as in neighbouring countries. The northeast monsoon starts in January View from the sundeck on Orionand goes through the end of April. In January and February the currents can be very strong but the big animal activity can be fantastic. The beginning of January brings clear water to most of the region which can be over 60m (200ft) visibility. Underwater visibility in the Maldives is determined by the tidal movements with incoming and outgoing tides. The monsoon patterns have a significant impact on the diving. From May to October, the southeast monsoon brings more big animal action and is the ideal time to go North to places like Baa Atoll.
The air temperature varies little with an annual average of 30C (90F) and minimum of 26C (80F), while the water temperature ranges from 26C (80F) to 30C (86F).
Diving is carried out from our purpose built "diving dhoni” that will not anchor but will follow the divers from the surface. This is the safest The Jacuzzi deck on Mv Orionand most comfortable way to dive in the Maldives due to the wind and currents. Every diver will have their own Dive Station with their own basket where for storing their diving gear, which will always remain on the diving dhoni. The system leaves the main boat free to handle accommodations, meals and social activities in a quiet atmosphere.
Most guests make up to 3 dives a day, so some sort of protection is needed. A 3mm wetsuit should be comfortable and adequate.

There is a law in the Maldives that the depth limit is 98 feet/ 30 metres. The Divemaster requires proof of certification before the first dive. Proof of your Dive Insurance will also be required, as well as the signing of our Waiver of Indemnity form. Every effort is made to ensure you have a safe trip. However, unforeseen circumstances can and do happen. Therefore, dive accident insurance and travel insurance are compulsory. A reasonably priced DAN Dive Insurance may be purchased onboard - Maldives diving photos

The dive sites:

Ari atoll
Fish soup - Mv Orion
Kudarah thila
Type of dive: Reef dive
Description: One of the best dive sites for soft coral and fish life. The marine life here is so abundant, that the divers have named it ‘fish soup’. The thila is in a circular shape and can be covered in a single dive at different depths, if the current is not very strong.

Maaya thila
Type of dive: Reef dive / Night dive
Description: The thila Stunning corals bommies are a big feature of diving in the Maldives - Mv Orionis about 80mters in diameter. The whole thila can be done at different depths in a single dive. There are many caves and overhangs around the thila. The large rocks on the north eastern side have large black coral trees growing on them. The site is famous for the sharks and a great barracuda which reside here. The site can be dived at any time of the day, each with different activity going on the reef. The best chance to get close to these creatures is at night time, when they are hunting. You will see sharks, barracudas, rays and eels trying to grab a morsel.

Bathala maaga kanthila
Type of dive: Drift dive
Description: The northern tip of Magaa reef extends into Bathalaa Kandu, is home to a number of grey reef sharks and white-tip reef sharks. They can be seen patrolling along the reef looking for food.
Stunning soft corals - Mv Orion
Maalhos thila (Blue curves)
Type of dive: Drift dive / Reef dive
Description: The thila is known for the abundance of soft coral growth on the thila, particularly the blue/violet colored variety that grows on the ceiling of the caves and overhangs, thus the name ‘blue caves’. In addition a large variety of fish life can be observed here.

Rasdhoo Madivaru
Type of dive: Drift dive / Channel dive
Description: The reef on the southern side of Rasdhoo drops vertically to the ocean depths. The site is home to a school of Scalloped Hammerhead sharks (sphyrna lewini). In the early hours of the morning they rise from the deep waters off the atoll into the shallower depths, accessible to divers.
Grey reef sharks - Mv Orion
South Male atoll

Guraidhoo Kandu South
Type of dive: Drift dive / channel dive
Description: Since the eastern side of the channel is Open Ocean, large predatory fish can regularly be spotted here. This site is famous for sightings of sharks, schools of eagle rays and the occasional Sail fish and Hammerheads. The best condition to do the dive is when the current is flowing into the Atoll. The dive begins on the outer reef following the currenHawksbill turtle - Mv Orion in the Maldivest into the atoll. Most of the pelagic species can be observed on the eastern side, where the reef drops off into the deep ocean. At the end of the dive in the channel, along the reef you can find overhangs with plenty of soft coral growth and small fish.

Kandooma thila
Type of dive: Drift dive / reef dive
Description: Located in a channel, the reef is subject to strong currents at times. The ocean currents carry lot of nutrients to the reef, supporting an abundance of sea life.
The site is well renowned for the soft coral growth, turtles, diverse fish life and inveWhite tip reef shark - Mv Orionrtebrates found on the reef. At the reef slope you may find sharks and eagle rays.

Embudu express
Type of dive: Drift dive / channel dive.
Description: Similar to Guraidhoo Kandu, but more sharks are likely to be spotted here.
The currents can be very strong at times. The stronger the current however the better chance of seeing sharks. Under the guidance of an experienced dive guide, the dive can be managed done easily.

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Mv Orion

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