MV Theia Liveaboard Overview

A world-renowned diving destination, the Maldives beckons scuba divers with crystal-clear warm waters, spectacular underwater landscapes, and an incredible diversity of dive sites. Over 1,100 species of fish alone can be found in the Maldives, a place famed for pelagic encounters.

Drift dives along vibrant coral reefs, thrilling encounters with manta rays and whale sharks, and fascinating caves, swim-throughs, and thilas teeming with colorful marine life all make the Maldives a bucket-list destination for any diver.

The Theia is a luxurious liveaboard yacht catering for up to 22 guests, offering a comfortable and spacious platform to explore the Maldives’ underwater world. This 105-foot (32 m) vessel features 10 air-conditioned cabins with ensuite bathrooms, ensuring privacy and relaxation after a day of diving.

The crew of 20 provides attentive service to make an unforgettable liveaboard experience. Offering six, seven, and 10-night itineraries, the Theia covers the central and southern atolls. Guests on a seven-night itinerary can expect around 15 dives, including a night dive, depending on conditions.

Let’s dive into our review of the Theia liveaboard.

Where to book

MV Theia red hulled liveaboard yacht at sea under a cloudy sky

PADI TravelSecure online booking Liveaboard.comNo booking fees Divebooker.comFree DAN insurance

Diving on the Theia

Hawksbill turtle gliding over a shallow Maldives coral reef surrounded by sergeant major fish and butterflyfish

Oceanic manta ray gliding past a reef wall with a diver watching nearby

The Maldives offers a diver’s paradise, with warm, clear waters and visibility usually ranging from 65 to 13 feet (20 to 40 m) depending on the location and time of year. With abundant marine life and frequent pelagic encounters including sharks, mantas and whale sharks, along with over 1,000 species of fish, divers can expect a diverse array of marine life while onboard the Theia.

Thilas (underwater pinnacles) rise dramatically from the depths, attracting a variety of marine life. Dramatic walls and drop-offs offer thrilling drift dives and vibrant coral reefs offer something for everyone.

The Maldives is also a paradise for underwater photographers, who can enjoy wide-angle reef shots, macro photography, and stunning encounters with megafauna. The unique geography of the Maldives, with numerous atolls and channels, creates a rich ecosystem.

Along with mantas and whale sharks, divers can encounter reef sharks, playful dolphins, turtles and a dazzling array of fish, giving photography enthusiasts the chance to capture incredible stills and videos.

Diving on the Theia is done from a spacious dive dhoni. Guests can expect up to 15 dives on a 7-night itinerary, including a night dive. Nitrox is included and gear rentals are available on board, with prior notice.

The dive dhoni provides ample space to prepare for dives. Individual gear stations, lots of storage, and a professional and helpful team ensure that diving is enjoyable, safe, and fun. Camera rinse tanks and charging areas let photographers safely prepare their equipment.

Divemasters are experienced and responsible, giving good dive briefings with safety as a priority. Dives are guided, with one experienced dive guide for a group of up to seven divers.

Highlights:

Great variety of dive sites
Up to 15 dives, including night dive, on a 7-night itinerary
Free nitrox
Mantas and other large pelagics
Spacious dive dhoni

Onboard the Theia

Red sofa seating and beanbags in MV Theia's saloon lounge

Sun loungers on MV Theia's sundeck at sunset with the radar dome behind

Twin bunk cabin aboard MV Theia with red accent pillows on the beds

Aft deck lounge seating aboard MV Theia overlooking the open sea

The Theia features 10 individually air-conditioned ensuite cabins that are notable for their size and space. Spread over three decks, there’s a mixture of suites, deluxe cabins, and double and single-bed cabins. All feature comfortable beds, individual air-conditioning, and private ensuite bathrooms.

A spacious salon with a small bar can be found on the main deck, with comfortable seating to relax and socialize. An audiovisual entertainment system is available for movies and music. Dining is alfresco on a covered deck, where guests can take in the stunning views.

A highlight of the Theia is the huge sundeck with lots of places to take in the sun’s rays or to relax in the shade. Guests can enjoy a drink at the sky bar and there are several seating areas spread over the deck levels to relax. Massages are available at an extra charge.

Highlights:

Huge sundeck with sky bar
Mainly French speaking
Large, comfortable cabins
Lots of space to relax and unwind between dives
SUPs, kayaks and land excursion included
Massages available for an extra charge

Dining onboard the Theia

Covered dining table on MV Theia's deck with a tender boat visible offshore

Galley counter aboard MV Theia set up with breakfast appliances

Alfresco dining is a highlight on the Theia, with delicious food made using fresh, local ingredients. Special dietary needs can be catered to with prior notice. Complimentary drinking water, coffee, and tea are available throughout the day, and alcoholic and soft drinks are available on board for an extra fee.

Occasional post-dive snacks are provided, with cookies available anytime for snacking between meals. Pre-dinner drinks on the sundeck are a highlight and enhance the dining experience.