MV Emperor Voyager Liveaboard Review

The MV Emperor Voyager is operated by Emperor Divers. Based in Egypt, the company formed in 1992 and dubs itself as ‘The Diver’s Choice’. The company states it’s that aims are quality customer care – so that you can relax knowing that all your scuba diving needs will run smoothly and that the instruction is second to none.

The MV Emperor Voyager was built and launched in 2004. However it has been continually updated and refurbished to ensure it remains maintained to a high standard; it’s last major refurbishment taking place in just 2014. Clearly aimed at diving, this Maldivian liveaboard vessel offers the free nitrox and facilities for rebreather diving.

You can check out the Emperor Voyager schedule here.

The vessel has an overall length of 30m and 9m beam. This means the Emperor Voyager is slightly smaller than some of it’s competitors; being marginally smaller than the Honours Legacy, M/V Duke of York and Fun Azul vessels. And substantially smaller than the huge M/V Maldives Crown.

Emperor Voyager offers 4 deck levels. The interior boasts parquet flooring and teak on the main deck area. Take a look at the yacht plans accompanying this article for further details.

Emperor Voyager Double Cabin

The yacht’s facilties point towards an emphasis on scuba diving. Nitrox is available at no extra cost for those who are qualified. There are also rebreather facilities for the technically minded and the vessel is able to support Poseidon MKVI, AP vision and manual Megalodon units.

However, please be sure to let the operator know at the booking stage so that they can discuss your requirements. The diving takes place from a 20m Dhoni accompanying the Emperor Voyager boat. The Dhoni has 3 crew onboard to assist and ensure safety.

Boat Itinerary

MV Emperor Voyager runs the ‘Best of Maldives’ itinerary. Over 7 or 10 day cruises, departing from Male, the route takes in many of the favourite dive sites available; Rasdhoo Atoll, North Ari Atoll, Maaya Thila Night Dive, South Ari Atoll,
South Male Atoll, Vaavu Atoll and North Male Atoll.

These underwater sites offer beautiful pinnacles and the possibility of seeing some pelagic life.

Emperor Voyager Layout

The vessel has 10 cabins. 7 Twin Cabins and 3 double cabins. Each cabin has ensuite facilities and air-conditioning to ensure your comfort.

Emperor Voyager Bar Area

The main deck of Emperor Voyager vessel has a large outdoor sofa relaxing area complete with a drinks area and a corner bar. There is no shortage of places to relax on the boat or find comfortable seating. There is an ample dining area or, if preferred, you can choose to dine Al Fresco at one of the seating areas.

On the upper deck there is a cinema/movie system where you can relax and unwind. Outside there is also an area for photographers to check your cameras and electronic equipment – or simply relax! For those wanting to keep contact with the world at large, wifi is available for USD20 per week where network permits.

Ensuite Facilties Onboard

M/V Emperor Voyager is less expensive than some competitors, however, don’t feel for a moment that safety has been compromised. The vessel has all the safety equipment you would expect at this level including first aid, oxygen, fire detection and fighting systems, life jackets, full radio and GPS facilities and Nautilus Lifelines for guests.

Expect to budget USD1,300 and above although sometimes late deals are available.