Anything I should know, bring or plan for?

[Thanshin]

I'll be in a Maldives liveaboard in January (if I find a place in one).

I've never been in a liveaboard. Is there something I should take into consideration about equipment, things to bring, things not to bring, etc?

If I plan and pack as if I was going to a diving resort, what mistakes will I make?

 

[@sea]

On the liveaboard I would recommend for you to bring your own gear. Many of the boats diving equipments are not that well maintained compared to a diving resorts. ( pls I am not saying they are complete crap, but compared to a diving resort it could be , i'm more worried about the regulators I have seen)

Don't forget the small stuff for your regulator. An O'ring set for your Regulator might save you from using a rental.

But the rest should be all fine. If you have any specific question let me know.

@sea

 

[Quero]

I have a little tip sheet on my website that you might find useful when it comes to packing. It's written for Thailand, but it's not that different in Maldives, except the trip may be longer. Take a look: Marcia's tips on packing for a liveaboard.

 

[Thanshin]

Perfect. Exactly what I was looking for.

Thank you very much.

 

[ElChe]

Marcia's tips are really useful! Recommend to pack spare items too, for example I use to bring a second mask, it's easier for me than a spare mask strap. In the Maldives the experts says it's essential to have an SMB because of the drift dives and they usually have a reef hook as well for the strong currents.

Although it's about the Red Sea maybe you can check my blog entry, there can be some useful informations too.

 

[Darnold9999]

Some things I bring that most don't

Extra wetsuit - I have two shorties and a full suit. Dry suit for every dive and they make great packing to protect camera gear.

Multiple bathing suits. Dry suit for every dive. Change into a fresh one after every dive and wear it until the next dive. That and a few t-shirts does me for the trip. Add something for cool nights and one pair of shorts for "formal" dining and that is it.

Roll of waterproof first aid tape to protect feet etc from fins rubbing

 

[Shasta_man]

My usual comment: Something to dry your ears, and for ear infections. Constant diving and water for multiple days can give you an ear infection which prevents equalization. You can feel fine otherwise but can't dive.

 

[shmuggy]

On another note: less is more. Don't bring a lot of clothes, shoes, etc. There will be very little storage in your room. Don't use hard luggage unless necessary to protect your camera. You probably won't wear shoes at all on the boat. If you are female- you probably won't feel like putting on your makeup- a lot of stuff can be left at home.

Do bring lots of film, batteries, and cash for the tip.

 

[imamwbs]

Here is a few Important thing to consider before liveaboard trips:
Komodo Liveaboard Release 5 Important Things to Consider Before Liveaboard Trips

 

[SCUBA Divah John]

Remember that the Maldives is a Muslim country so some things you should NOT bring: Pork products, alcohol, porn. They will check your bags upon arrival.