M/Y White Pearl Liveaboard Overview

With more than 240 varieties of corals, more than 1,000 species of fish, no less than 26 species of sharks, five species of turtles and an estimated population of over 5,000 manta rays, the Maldives is a dream come true for divers and snorkelers alike.

Imagine descending in the warm water of the Indian Ocean, where the currents guide you along coral gardens as majestic mantas wing by, along with huge napoleons and schools of barracudas. According to the seasons and the sites, you might even be able to encounter graceful whale sharks.

The newest member of the Pearl Fleet, the M/Y White Pearl is an exceptional luxury liveaboard built in 2020. With a cruising speed of 12-14 knots, the White Pearl is one of the grandest and fastest superyachts in the Maldives. This modern liveaboard stands above the rest for its incredible stability, unparallelled amount of space, and state-of-the-art features. It has been designed specifically for divers and underwater photographers and can comfortably accommodate up to 26 guests in 13 staterooms.

Let’s dive into our review of the White Pearl.

Where to book

Liveaboard.comNo booking fees Divebooker.comFree DAN insurance

Diving on the White Pearl

Empty spa style deck room with white benches aboard the M/Y White Pearl

A diver observing a large napoleon wrasse with two divers in the background

A hawksbill turtle beside an orange sponge with divers in the background

A manta ray gliding overhead beside a school of yellow fish

The Maldives is renowned for its breathtaking marine wonders, including manta rays, sharks, and vibrant coral reefs. Each of four distinct itineraries on the White Pearl offers divers access to it all.

All span seven nights or more and traverse both the central atolls and remote dive sites in the southern regions of the Maldives. Divers encounter diverse terrain, from sloping reefs and gentle drifts to pinnacles, swim-throughs, channels, and walls. Because of frequent currents, divers should have a minimum 50 logged dives, with a certification level of at least Advanced Open Water.

Divers on the White Pearl will be guided by seasoned divemasters and benefit from state-of-the-art amenities. One distinguishing feature of diving in the Maldives is the use of purpose-built boats called dhonis. The White Pearl features three 25-foot (7.5 m) aluminum vessels, providing unparalleled access to remote dive sites.

If you don’t want to bring your own gear, the White Pearl offers brand-new rental equipment upon prior request at a surcharge. As some of the dives are drift dives, complimentary use of SMBs, GPS, and reef hooks is offered, while nitrox is available at no extra cost for certified guests. With a maximum of four guests per guide and up to four dives a day, the White Pearl ensures personalized and intimate diving encounters.

Highlights:

Up to 46 dives per trip
Frequent sightings of whale sharks, mantas and variety of sharks
SMBs, GPS, and reef hooks are complimentary
Dive sites range from sloping reefs to pinnacles, swim-throughs, and walls
4:1 guide to diver ratio

Onboard the White Pearl

Wooden lounge chairs around a table on the M/Y White Pearl's starlit night deck

Massage bed and soaking tub in the M/Y White Pearl's spa treatment room

Aerial view of the M/Y White Pearl's aft deck with plunge pool, jacuzzi and loungers

Marble ensuite bathroom with glass shower stall aboard the M/Y White Pearl

Stateroom bed with ocean view windows and towel swans aboard the M/Y White Pearl

At 183 feet (56 m) long, the M/Y White Pearl redefines comfort and sophistication. Its 13 opulent rooms cater to a maximum of 26 guests. Each of the sea view cabins boasts an ensuite bathroom, air conditioning, and amenities such as HDTVs with Google Cast and an inter-room communication system.

On the main deck you’ll find the master suite, equipped with a large double bedroom, couch, and bunk beds. There are also two junior suites on this level, while the upper deck hosts 10 deluxe cabins, six of which can be converted from twin to double beds. The yacht ensures security and convenience with a keypad door lock system in each cabin.

Interior spaces on the White Pearl include a spacious dining area, a café, and a bar for meals and social gatherings. Relaxation takes center stage with an entertainment salon, equipped with HDTVs, gaming consoles, gym equipment, and a business center, and massages are available at an extra cost.

You may be tempted to skip a dive when you see the expansive outdoor lounge area, equipped with a cocktail bar, a 20-foot (6 m) swimming pool, and a hot tub. Additional outdoor seating is available on the upper deck, providing panoramic views and comfortable relaxation spots. The sundeck offers curved bench seating and sun loungers, inviting guests to bask in the Maldivian sun in style.

Dive enthusiasts will find the lower deck’s dedicated diving area meticulously designed. The area features rinse tanks, showers, personal lockers, and a camera workspace on the main deck. Non-diving activities such as stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, and snorkeling are complementary for guests seeking alternative adventures.

Highlights:

Seaview cabins
Gym equipment and business center
On-board massage
Outdoor cocktail bar

Dining onboard the White Pearl

Dining area with ocean-view windows and buffet counter aboard the M/Y White Pearl

Set dining table with blue velvet chairs in the M/Y White Pearl's restaurant

Bar stools and TV screen at the M/Y White Pearl's onboard bar at night

Guests on the White Pearl are treated to three sumptuous buffet-style meals which include western, local, and vegetarian options, complemented by light breakfast options and afternoon snacks.

The dining experience extends beyond designated meal times, with 24-hour access to hot beverages, water, and a selection of cookies and snacks. Soft drinks and an assortment of alcoholic beverages are available for a surcharge. The yacht boasts two bars offering an assortment of cocktails, wines, beers, and liquors. Coffee enthusiasts will love the availability of espresso, cappuccino, and latte options.

Guests with specific dietary needs or allergies should communicate their requirements during the booking process for personalized attention.