MV Sheena Liveaboard Review

MV Sheena is one of the smaller liveaboard vessel operating in the waters of the Maldives; taking in some of the best diving the location has to offer over a variety of itineraries.

Larger pelagic animals such as sharks, manta or eagle ray or, sometimes, a giant of the ocean such as the Whale Shark. Or the rainbow-coloured shoals of reef fish such as sweetlips and snapper. The Maldives has it all! You also may find giant moray eels, turtles, and colourful shrimps and nudibranchs which set up home in the stunning coral outcrops and walls. You’re sure to have exciting dives and a holiday to cherish.

The MV Sheena was originally built in 1995 but, with a constant series of updates and evolutions, has stayed up-to-date for today’s modern recreational divers. Last renovated in 2015, Sheena has a full compliment of safety and emergency equipment, a powerful Daewoo motor and an accompanying dhoni for diving activities.

You can check the availability and prices for this Boat here.

Cabins and Boat Layout

At a more modest 24m in length and 8.5m in beam Sheena is a more cosy boat to spend your time; it having a more friendly, family atmosphere. There are 7 cabins which accommodate 14 guests.

Standard cabin

The cabin options are as follows:

• Standard Cabin – these twin single bunk cabins are found on the lower deck. Perfect for single people or dive buddies, they feature air-conditioning and have an ensuite bathroom.
• Owner’s Cabin – located on the upper deck, these 2 cabins are more salubrious; offering more space (at nearly 17sq/m in area) and more natural light. Also, as expected, they have ensuite bathroom and air-conditioning.

Outside of your cabin there is room to relax, unwind or simply bronze under the Maldivian sun; the Sheena has no less than 4 sun decks! – both shaded and unshaded.

Owner’s cabin

There’s an air-conditioned saloon/lounge area with comfortable seating, TV/DVD/media capabilities. Chill, nap or chat in comfort if you need a break from the warm Asian sun.

Indoor dining

Dining is generally in a ‘family’ buffet style outside on the stern deck. Local and western foods are served and, for those who have completed the diving, a range of alcoholic beverages.

Relax outside

There are charging stations for cameras, torches and gadgets and the attentive crew are never far away should you need help or assistance.

Diving onboard Sheena

Great news for those qualified is that Nitrox – Enriched Air – is free for those qualified while diving onboard. A real boon for extending bottom time and shortening surface intervals safely. If you’ve brought your own equipment from Europe, DIN adaptors are available for easy conversion to INT tanks.

The crew

Should it be required, rental equipment is available for a competitive price. Diving computers and DSMBs are also necessary due to the nature of the local diving.

Sheena with Dhoni

Diving takes place from the Dhoni. There are also rinse tanks and showers for gadgets and toys post-dive.

There are DIN adaptors for those with their own regulators. Nitrox is available to extend your bottom time.

Itineraries

There are a range of great itineraries departing/returning from either Male or Medhufushi. Dive site selection is obviously subject to the prevailing conditions but aims to take in favourites such as Meemu Atoll and Felidhoo Atoll.

Expect to pay around approximately EUR1,530 for a 7 night trip. This equates to EUR191/day, making Sheena competitive for the area. Please note that this does not include some extras such as port/marine park fees, crew tips, alcoholic drinks and equipment rental. Please contact us for further details.