The Maldives top 10

The Maldives is a nation of atolls and islands, and a sailing ground that combines phenomenal experiences with pure luxury. Deep dive into the top 10 highlights that the Maldives offer the waterbourne, brought to you by our Burgess charter experts 

If you are seeking something a little out of the ordinary away from the waters of the Caribbean this winter season, then turn your attention to the far-flung Indian Ocean and the shimmering azure waters of the Maldives. The stunning islands are a rich melting pot of culture and natural beauty – perfect for those looking for pure escapism. Unashamedly lazy days focus on picture-perfect beaches lapped by infinite shades of blue water, or go beneath the surface, where dazzling underwater coral gardens will blow your mind. With 26 major atolls, and over 1,200 islands on offer, singling out which area to cruise depends on what you would like to experience during your charter, but rest assured, your Burgess charter expert will tailor your trip to you. In the meantime, here is a taste of what is on offer...  

Out of the 1,200 islands that make up the Maldives, around 200 are inhabited, and of these, more than 150 are crowned with luxury resorts (an average of six new resorts open every year). Each resort vies for the best, latest, most divinely luxurious facilities one can think of, and dining is no exception. One of the better-known dining experiences is the Ithaa Undersea Restaurant, the world’s first of its kind. Located at the Conrad Maldives Rangali Island in the South Ari Atoll, the award-winning Ithaa sits five metres below sea level. The restaurant offers 180 degree panoramic views of sea life, including sharks and turtles, all to be enjoyed while sipping your aperitif, perhaps before enjoying a seven-course tasting menu. The whole restaurant can also be booked for a private sitting, be it for breakfast, lunch or dinner, and just like the decks of your superyacht, bare feet are preferred.

The Maldives may be best known for its magnificent clear blue water, with many of the resorts offering over the water accommodation, but now a number of the most spectacular properties have taken the ocean experience to another level, and located themselves deep below the surface. There are not many places that can compete with a superyacht master suite, but instead of waking up to the ocean breeze, why not wake to see coral fronds swaying in the current and colourful fish darting between them. Created as an extension of Conrad’s Ithaa restaurant, the Muraka Experience at Conrad Maldives Rangali Island is just one of the impressive aquarium-like underwater suites available in the archipelago. Part of a two-level villa, with three other suites and living accommodation above water level, the master suite nestles five metres beneath sea level. The submerged accommodation spreads over 100sqm and is encased in curved, 18cm (7in) thick transparent glass walls, allowing for spectacular views of the surrounding underwater world.

For a different perspective of the Maldives, and perhaps a sense of adventure, jump onto your yacht’s jetski.  Escorted by an experienced, local guide, a jetski safari can include all your favourite activities. Take a spin around a handful of beautiful resorts, island hopping (at a respectable speed) between uninhabited desert islands, and discover idyllic lagoons and hidden beaches. Feel the thrill as you glide across the shimmering blue sea, exploring at your own pace, and maybe crossing paths with curious dolphins as you go.

Add a new dimension to your diving experience with a fluorescent night dive. More commonly known as 'fluo' diving, and different to a conventional night dive, the recent discovery of diving with a blue-light torch and a lens filter in the diving mask (as opposed to an ultraviolet light) allows divers to still view the glowing colours that are emitted by marine life, with the ability to fluoresce as it transforms high-energy light into low-energy light. Fish and coral glow with spectacular psychedelic hues of pink, green, purple, red, blue and yellow, while some fluorescent creatures - that might not otherwise be spotted - shine among the coral that itself becomes accentuated with its own fluorescence. It is truly a beautiful experience.

The Maldives were originally a safe haven for Persians travelling on their trade route from India to Indonesia, and over the years Africans, Portuguese and British have all claimed parts of the atolls, and their cultural legacies remain today in the form of ancient architectural landmarks and unique culinary traditions. For a taste of the rich cultural heritage, anchor in the lagoon at Kudarikilu and explore the surrounding islands. Step ashore to discover the local island life with a visit to the village schools and shops, and watch the locals in action as they weave mats, known as Thun’du kunaa. On the island of Ugulu discover the heritage site, Redhunge Usgandu, and for another intriguing insight into traditional Maldivian life head to Alifushi where you will find locals using ancient methods to build boats.

The Maldivian waters are among the top places in the world for spotting whales and dolphins. With over 20 different species, ranging from the mighty blue whale to the diminutive spinner dolphin, you can watch from the deck of your yacht as they go about their regular routine, typically feeding offshore at night and then coming into the atolls in the early morning before leaving in the afternoon for the open ocean. The Shaviyani and Lhaviyani atolls are both blessed with uninhabited islands that are perfect for peaceful anchorages and wildlife spotting. In the Baa Atoll, drop anchor at Angu Faru – a breeding ground for grey reef sharks, and another great scuba diving destination. Further south, in the Vaavu Atoll you can swim with nurse sharks.

The Maldives are famous for their exquisite spas offerings. For those in the mood for a bit of pampering, there are a number of exclusive island retreats that offer indigenously inspired spa treatments to make your charter in paradise all the more perfect. The Cheval Blanc Spa at the Cheval Blanc Randheli, for example, is an island entirely dedicated to revitalisation, and offers Guerlain treatments inspired by the Maldivian sun. Over at the Six Senses Laamu, the Six Senses spa is the best Ayurvedic spa in the Indian Ocean. In addition to the usual thatch huts that Six Senses spas are known for, are four treatment ‘nests’ where signature treatments, including an Asian Fusion Journey lasting four hours, can be experienced. For those looking for something a little different, the Artist’s Studio at the One & Only Reethi Rah offers the opportunity to experience art therapy through painting and ceramics, while the ESPA, which offers traditional spa therapies, has become a favourite stop on the cruising map.

Fishing is a way of life in the Maldives, and has been the lifeblood for the Maldivians since time immemorial. From the decks of your yacht you can fish at sunrise when dogtooth tuna, wahoo and red snapper are milling just beneath the surface. Afterwards enjoy the catch-of-the-day prepared by your onboard chef with a beach barbecue or on the decks of your yacht under the moonlight.

Seaplanes are probably the most convenient and spectacular mode of transportation for those looking to reach their yacht after flying into the capital of Male, or neighbouring Hulhule where Velana International Airport is actually located. Quick and practical, a seaplane also provides breathtaking views over the Maldivian atolls and islands. At a lower height you can view the powdery sandbanks and resorts, while the reefs, lagoons and atoll formations become clearer as the plane climbs. It is not just the thrill of the flight that children and adults will enjoy – landing in the open water and floating to the jetty to disembark is an exhilarating experience for all.

The Maldives are home to rare underwater beauty, making them one of the most popular dive destinations in the world. To discover this world, your captain will take you to anchor in lagoons or alongside uninhabited islands to snorkel and scuba dive. One place not to miss is Kihaadhuffaru Thila, where you will find stingrays and nursing sharks swimming among schools of colourful fish. For some impressive wreck diving head to the Haa Dhaal Atoll and the area around Maamakunudhoo (known to be the graveyard of several ships), where you can dive to view the English vessel Persia Merchant (1658) and the Hayston (1819), among other wrecks.