What is a dhoni cruise in the Maldives?

A dhoni cruise is a traditional boat-based journey aboard a handcrafted Maldivian sailing vessel. It's a relaxed, low-impact way to explore remote atolls, lagoons and reefs, with full-board comfort and local crew.

Is a dhoni cruise a sustainable way to travel in the Maldives?

Yes. Travelling in a small group aboard a dhoni reduces the need for flights and resort transfers, minimises environmental impact, and supports local communities.

What are the benefits of sailing the Maldives instead of staying at a resort?

Sailing allows you to visit remote islands and reefs not accessible to most resorts. You can snorkel directly from the boat, experience local culture, and avoid the crowds and high prices of resort stays.

Is snorkelling included on a dhoni cruise?

Yes. Most dhoni cruises include daily snorkelling stops at vibrant reefs where you can spot reef fish, turtles, and sometimes manta rays.

How to see the real Maldives (Hint: it's not at a resort)

Snorkelling up close and personal with marine life like the Hawksbill Turtle

Blog home / How to see the real Maldives (Hint: it's not at a resort)

Love the idea of escaping to a tropical paradise with full-board meals, included activities, and the freedom to relax one day and explore the next?

Aboard a traditional Maldivian dhoni, you can do just that. Cruise from one turquoise lagoon to another, snorkel beautiful coral gardens, and enjoy the warm Indian Ocean breeze from the comfort of your floating home.

While many travellers flock to crowded resorts, a boat-based journey offers something rare: access to secluded islands, authentic encounters with local communities, and the chance to wake up somewhere new each day without ever repacking your bag.

Why Choose a Dhoni Cruise?

Here are 7 reasons why this style of travel is so unique:

1. A truly authentic Maldivian experience

Travel aboard a handcrafted dhoni – the traditional wooden sailing vessel used by locals for generations, which provides a relaxing, low-impact way to explore.

Relax onboard our trips in the Maldives

2. Island-hopping without the hassle or the hurry

Skip the airport transfers and fast boats. Instead, visit remote atolls, secret sandbanks, and crystal-clear lagoons well beyond the usual tourist trail.

A boat-based adventure with On Water Expeditions gives you the freedom to slow down, be present in the moment, and explore at nature's pace. Enjoy the opportunity to encounter wildlife as it happens, with no hurry to stick to a timeline. If a pod of dolphins unexpectedly appears, we'll linger. If the reef looks inviting, we dive in.

3. World-class snorkelling

Jump straight from the boat into marine-rich waters, where you might spot reef fish, sea turtles, and (if you’re lucky) a manta ray.

🌤 Related: When's the Best Time to Visit the Maldives?

Not sure when to set sail or the best conditions for snorkelling? Read this seasonal guide →

4. Cultural connection

Stop at inhabited islands to meet Maldivian locals and gain insight into the island way of life, shaped by the sea and centuries of tradition.

5. Sustainable small-group travel

Travelling aboard a smaller vessel with a limited group size minimises environmental impact, supports local communities, and keeps your experience intimate and respectful.

6. Seamless comfort at sea

Your dhoni is rustic yet modern, combining traditional charm with full-board dining, shaded decks, and a friendly local crew who know these waters intimately.

7. Unpack once, explore every day

Let the boat do the moving while you soak up the serenity. No checking in and out, no logistics. Just effortless exploration.

When every detail is taken care of – from meals to water activities to island visits – all that’s left for you to do is unwind.

See what it's like inside a dhoni vessel →

traditional Maldives dhoni cruising experience

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