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Your Go-To Packing Guide for a Maldives Liveaboard Adventure
A trip to the Maldives is a dream for many. However, a liveaboard adventure in this tropical paradise takes it to a whole new level. Living at sea has its unique charm and demands, and to ensure you’re totally equipped for the journey of a lifetime, here’s your Bucket List Company exclusive packing guide for a Maldives liveaboard trip:
Clothing Essentials
The Maldivian climate is warm throughout the year, so pack light clothes. Swimwear is a must (obviously) – think multiple swimsuits or bikinis, and don’t forget a rash guard to protect against sun and waves.
A wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and lightweight shirts and shorts are also vital for day-to-day wear.
While the days are warm, the evenings can get somewhat cooler on the open sea, so pack a light jacket or a wrap. Oh, and don’t forget some comfortable footwear for those moments when you disembark to explore uninhabited islands.
Diving Gear
Most Maldivian liveaboard trips revolve around diving. If you own dive gear, take what you’re comfortable with. But, if you don’t want to haul your life around with you, don’t worry about travelling light as high-quality diving equipment can be rented at reasonable prices.
If you have got personal gear, it’s worth taking your own mask, snorkel, and dive computer to cut down on hire costs. Wetsuits, given the warm tropical waters, can be quite thin, around 2-3mm. Most people will dive in a shortie wetsuit or a rash vest and board shorts. When I am diving in The Maldives I use Fourth Element Thermacline Shorts and Top, which keep my core warmer when at depth.
Toiletries and Medication
Being on the sea can be unsettling for those prone to motion sickness, so do pack sea-sickness medication, and don’t tell yourself you “never get seasick”!
Suncream (Check out our article on Reef Friendly Suncream) is an absolute must, along with lip balm and after-sun lotion. If you’re on medication, take an extended supply plus a copy of the prescriptions in case you lose your medication and need to find some more.
A basic first-aid kit is also useful, complete with plasters, antiseptic cream, and pain relievers.
Tech and Other Gadgets
A liveaboard experience in the Maldives is about getting up close and personal with nature, so ideally you’ll keep tech to a minimum. However, cutting off completely may not be possible, or what you need, so make sure you charge your devices before boarding as power outlets can be limited, and don’t forget adapters suitable for Maldivian plugs. It is a good idea to take a battery pack with you (Check out my video here on the best battery pack for travel).
If you’re diving, a waterproof camera or GoPro can capture some unforgettable underwater moments.
You can get a Maldivan SIM card on arrival for your phone which is a lot cheaper than using your UK plan. The other option is to use an E-sim from a service such as Airalo. Wifi can also be purchased on board the boat.
Travel Documents
Always ensure you have a valid passport, relevant VISAs and, if you’re diving, your diving certifications and dive insurance are crucial. Make copies and keep them separately from the originals.
For The Maldives you need to complete a Traveller Declaration Form before arrival and also before departure. This form must be completed within 96 hours of arrival & departure so don’t do it too soon. This form is done online.
Everything Else
A light daypack or a waterproof bag can be handy for excursions or for storing your dive gear. A reusable water bottle is a practical and environmentally friendly option. And don’t forget a good read or your playlist – they can be great companions during your downtime onboard.
Every journey is different. Every traveller is different. The key is to balance between taking ‘just in case’ items and keeping baggage to a minimum. Remember, a liveaboard trip is an experience of simplicity on the sea, and packing light can help ensure it stays simple, straightforward and everything you want it to be.
Embarking on a liveaboard trip to the Maldives is indeed a journey of a lifetime. So, at the Bucket List Company, we hope this packing guide leads you into an effortlessly planned adventure. As you sail away on the azure Maldivian waters, may every sunrise hold more promise, and every sunset hold more peace.
