A Maldives yacht charter offers a paradisiacal luxury escape, with gin-clear waters, secluded sun-drenched beaches, vibrant marine life, and unrivalled levels of luxury, all coupled with laid-back island charm.
Whether you are dreaming of a relaxing getaway on a luxury superyacht or wish to harness the power of mother nature aboard a sailing yacht, a Maldives luxury escape offers an unforgettable adventure.
One of the best things about a luxury crewed Maldives yacht charter is the opportunity to set your itinerary and explore multiple islands at your own pace. But, with more than 1,100 island gems dotted throughout the Indian Ocean to explore, choosing where to cruise can be a challenge. If you’re planning a yacht charter in the Maldives, then keep on reading! Here we outline five of the best must-visit islands to set sail for.
Yacht Charter Maldives – Top Five Islands
1. Rangali
Drop anchor at this tropical idyll during a Maldives yacht charter and dine at the world’s first all-glass underwater restaurant – the iconic Ithaa Undersea Restaurant. Feast on contemporary European dishes expertly prepared as vibrant marine life gently glides by. The restaurant is part of the magnificent Conrad Maldives Rangali Island Resort, built across two islands in the South Ari Atoll and linked by a 500-metre footbridge.
2. Maamigili
This island is one of the Maldives’ larger inhabited islands and is a must-visit during a Maldives yacht charter, especially for those wishing to soak up the Maldives’ history and culture. Visit the island’s two vibrant fishing harbours, feast on local cuisine, or enjoy a day soaking up the sun on one of the island’s white powder sand beaches. Just off the coast of Maamigili is Dhidhdhoo Beyru, where whale shark sightings are a regular occurrence, especially from May through to September. For the brave, you can even get in the water and swim with these magnificent creatures.
3. Rasdhoo Madivaru
While not an island, Rasdhoo Madivaru – known as Hammerhead Point – still makes our top five list. A visit to this spectacular dive spot is a must during a Maldives luxury escape. Sink beneath the waves here for the chance to see hammerhead sharks and manta rays up close. The water is exceptionally clear – even at depths of 30-metres – making it a spectacular experience for divers.
4. Malé
Malé is the Maldives capital and where both motor yachts and sailing yachts for charter typically start and end their journeys. This compact island city is well worth visiting during a Maldives yacht charter to enjoy a slice of day-to-day Maldivian culture. Visit a tea house and enjoy a taste of traditional Maldivian cuisine, explore the markets bursting with locally grown produce, visit the old Mosque, built in 1656 from coral-stone, or learn more about Maldives history by paying a visit to the National Museum. From Malé, it’s just a short cruise to the island of Kurumba, the Maldives’ first private island resort, which opened its doors in 1972. Enjoy a handcrafted cocktail while snoozing in one of the resort’s hammocks.
5. Dhiffushi
Dhiffushi is located in Kaafu Atoll and is the most eastern inhabited Maldives island, boasting a population of around 1,000. This dreamy paradisiacal destination is the perfect place to soak up the sun on one of the island’s many powder white sand beaches, some boasting sun lounges and idyllic overwater hammocks. The island of Dhiffushi is surrounded by sandbanks and vibrant coral reefs, making it a great place to sink below the waves or enjoy your Maldives yacht charter’s tenders and toys.
Of course, one of the best ways to enjoy a Maldives yacht charter is to simply go where the mood, or winds, take you. What other must-visit islands would you add to our Maldives luxury escape guide?