The Maldives achieves a top-five spot in the “Tropical Yachting 2021 by the Superyacht Times.
Mohamed Hameed, Head of Asia Pacific Superyachts said, “The decision to open during the pandemic had been a positive and beneficial impact attracting international vessels. We are seeing one of the busiest season of all for visiting yachts in the Maldives. The country’s entrance formalities and restrictions are very easy to comply with, and there has been a lot of demand and inquiries, especially when compared to other competitive markets and countries,”.
Visitors travelling to the Maldives are granted a 30-day free on-arrival visa with no requirement to quarantine. However, they must submit an online health declaration form prior to entry with a negative PCR test result taken at least 96 hours prior to their departure. The negative PCR test result must be attached while completing Traveler Health Declaration form, which has to be submitted online via IMUGA (www.imuga.immigration.gov.mv), by all arriving passengers before arrival (but not exceeding 24 hours before arrival time). The decision to reopen with easier entry rules than any other luxury beach and marine holiday destination in Asia supported the Maldives travel industry helping it to stay in business.
Top yachting destinations in the Maldives;
Baa Atoll
Baa Atoll located in the central region of the atoll chain that form the Maldives is considered globally significant in terms of its biodiversity. The atoll covers an area of over 139,000 hectares and is situated just north of the Kaashidhoo channel that geographically separates the northern chain of atolls from the central chain. Baa atoll consists of several habitats that support the rich biodiversity of the atoll and includes coral reefs, islands, sea grass beds and mangroves.
It is also the perfect for maintaining distance and privacy from others making it an ideal pandemic-proof spot. Hanifaru Bay is the highlight when it comes to Baa Atoll’s biodiversity, attracting large numbers of visitors every year. This tiny Bay located on the eastern flank of the atoll has seen some of the largest gatherings of manta rays anywhere in the world. Up to a hundred of these gentle giants are seen in a single congregation, gliding through the waters to feed as the tide pushes abundant plankton into the bay.
Utheemu
The northernmost Maldivian islands offer signature beautiful beaches but also gives visitors the chance to engage with local culture and history. The island is the birthplace of Sultan Mohamed Thakurufaanu, who fought off Portuguese invaders in the 16th century.
Lhaviyani
One of the Maldives’ most famous scuba diving destinations, those who dare to dive will share the waters with an array of wildlife such as sharks, manta rays, and reef fish. There are a total of 54 islands in the Lhaviyani atoll, of which only five are inhabited: Naifaru, Hinnavaru, Kurendhoo and Olhuvelifushi.
