Maldives Blue Force 3 Liveaboard Overview

Crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and diverse marine life make the Maldives a bucket-list destination for divers of all experience levels. Offering an underwater environment that is both breathtaking and teeming with life, divers have access to world-class dive sites, thrilling drift dives, and abundant marine life including large pelagics. Warm, clear waters, excellent visibility, exceptional marine encounters and hundreds of hard and soft corals make diving in the Maldives an unforgettable experience.

Discover the underwater marvels of the Maldives aboard the steel-hulled Maldives Blue Force 3, a 138-foot (42 m) yacht designed to cater to divers of all levels. Built in 2013 and refurbished in 2018, this well-equipped vessel features 12 comfortable cabins for up to 26 guests.

The Maldives Blue Force 3 is the largest boat in the Blue Force Liveaboards fleet. It explores the Central Atolls and South Hemisphere routes, typically offering 7-night/6-dive-day itineraries. Guests can expect around 18 dives, including two night dives, as well as a visit to a fishing village, and dinner one evening on a deserted beach.

Let’s dive into our review of the Maldives Blue Force 3.

Where to book

Maldives Blue Force III liveaboard dive boat at anchor in calm water

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Diving on the Maldives Blue Force 3

Tiger shark cruising past a reef while divers photograph it in the Maldives

Manta ray gliding overhead lit by a diver's torch on a night dive

Maldives anemonefish peeking out from its host anemone with a diver silhouette above

The Maldives offers an incredible array of diving conditions, from shallow reefs teeming with colorful fish to exhilarating drift dives along nutrient-rich channels. Renowned for dramatic wall dives, vertical drops feature vibrant coral reefs and colorful marine life. Drift dives are also exhilarating, allowing divers to explore underwater landscapes and encounter large pelagic species as they float by.

Shallow reefs offer a tranquil diving experience, ideal for beginners and those seeking a peaceful underwater exploration. These shallow reefs offer exceptional opportunities for both macro and wide-angle photography.

Divers on the Maldives Blue Force 3 can also expect to encounter large pelagics, including whale sharks, hammerheads, and reef sharks. Manta rays, eagle rays, and stingrays are among the many ray species that inhabit the Maldives’ waters.

The Maldives Blue Force 3 typically has four experienced dive guides on board, ensuring personalized attention and guidance. Diving is done from a dedicated dive dhoni, where your equipment will stay for the duration of the trip.

Rental equipment is available on board with prior notice. Compulsory equipment for divers includes a dive computer, SMB, reef hook, and torch for night dives. An Advanced certification is recommended, as is diving with nitrox.

Trips on the Maldives Blue Force 3 are year-round and itineraries start and finish in Malé, where the international airport provides convenient access to the yacht.

Highlights:

Around 18 dives including two night dives
Opportunity to encounter whale sharks, manta rays, and other large pelagics
Stunning coral reefs
Excellent for photographers

Onboard the Maldives Blue Force 3

Lit outdoor lounge deck with blue cushioned seating aboard the Blue Force 3 at night

Sun deck with cushioned bench seating on the bow of the Blue Force 3 liveaboard

Long indoor lounge with white sofas leading to the dining area on the Blue Force 3

Twin cabin aboard the Blue Force 3 with navy bedspreads and a window with blinds

The Maldives Blue Force 3 offers 12 cabins, including four on the lower deck with one double bed and a single bed, and two triple cabins with single beds. On the main deck there are two more twin cabins with single beds and obstructed windows. On the upper deck there are four cabins with a double bed and a single bed. All cabins are individually air conditioned with ensuite bathrooms.

The salon features huge, comfortable couches, a large TV and DVD player, and plenty of space to socialize. Both the salon and dining area are air-conditioned for year-round comfort. There’s more seating and a dedicated camera area on the aft main deck, where guests can take in the incredible views. The bar is on the upper deck with more space to relax and socialize. The sun deck features a shaded seating area and comfortable loungers.

Dive briefings typically take place in the salon before divers board the dhoni, where the dive deck is exceptionally spacious and well-designed. There’s plenty of room to prepare and, with multiple exit points to get into the ocean, the dhoni is a fantastic way to dive.

Large under-bench storage bins and lots of seating make preparing for dives a pleasure. There are two toilets and the dhoni also features a large sundeck for sunbathing.

Highlights:

Dedicated dive dhoni with helpful crew
Very comfortable beds
Clean cabins and bathrooms

Dining onboard the Maldives Blue Force 3

Formal dining room aboard the Blue Force 3 set with tables, napkins and a buffet counter

Lounge chairs beside a staircase and bar on the Blue Force 3's evening deck

Meals are served buffet-style, with the exception of one evening where guests may have the opportunity to dine on a deserted beach. Meals consist of local Maldivian dishes, Asian specialties, and Western favorites. Local dishes often feature fresh seafood, fragrant curries, and rice, while Western options include pasta, grilled meats, and international specialties. Lighter mid-morning and mid-afternoon snacks are also available daily.

The chefs accommodate various dietary requirements, including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and lactose-free diets. Guests are advised to inform the crew of any special dietary needs upon booking.

The Maldives Blue Force 3 offers tea, coffee, and water on a complimentary basis. Soft drinks, alcoholic beverages including wine, beer and spirits, are available for purchase on board.