MV Emperor Leo

Emperor Leo is a wonderful Maldives diving liveaboard ship that measures 35m. in length and takes no more than 24 lucky guests on week-long diving safaris to the best diving areas of The Maldives. The boat is a little over 10 years old, but was recently refurbished (2012). Comfort & luxury at reasonable prices sums up this popular liveaboard boat. Solo travellers are welcome to join same-sex shared cabins, while most others are couples or pairs. Nitrox is available for free and several types of rebreather units can be used on these exciting Maldives diving safaris.

There are three main decks on Emperor Leo, and plenty of space for every guest to relax, move around, find some privacy, or gather in groups. Most of the cabins are on the lower deck, and a few are located on higher decks. All cabins have en suite private bathrooms, air conditioning, a safe, hairdryer and TV. The executive suite on the upper deck has a large bathtub, in addition to its shower. All cabins are clean, spacious and tastefully decorated.

Communal areas on Emperor Leo are many and varied. There are air-conditioned lounge/saloon areas and a large dining room with an internationally-stocked licensed bar. Most guests like to spend time outside though, so that they can enjoy the view and sea breeze. Emperor Leo doesn’t disappoint with its large sundeck, outdoor lounge and even a Jacuzzi at the front of the main deck.
Facilities on the boat include wi-fi, which is available at certain times during each cruise and at a reasonable rate, free Nitrox fills for certified divers, and AV entertainment for watching a movie or catching up on the day’s diving videos & photographs. There is also an extensive library of interesting books and novels in a variety of languages. The staff & crew are always on hand to help, but never intrusive. They speak good English, along with a few other languages, and are all experienced in their jobs.

To ensure that every part of this boat is used to its maximum potential and passenger comfort, Emperor Leo divers are dropped off at, and picked up from, each dive site by the large tender boat, known locally as a ‘dhoni.’ This 19.8m. support vessel is also where the dive equipment is stored, meaning that when on board the main ship you can really feel like you’re on a luxury cruise rather than a dive boat.

Prices & Schedule

Emperor Leo sails throughout the year. Trips depart from and return to Male, at a port just 10 minutes’ drive from the international airport.
Depending on the time of year, the best dive sites are chosen to ensure the maximum diving enjoyment throughout each cruise. ‘The Best of The Maldives’ 8D/7N itinerary visits North Male, South Male, and Ari Atoll. The trips are suitable for all levels of diver.