At first glance, the Sea Queen may not look as impressive as the archetypal gin palace associated with liveaboard luxury, but at the moment this is the one to choose for the ultimate Maldives experience. It may not have the camera space or heavy-duty toys of the Pacific liveaboards, but there is more character in its teak structure than in a hundred steel-hulled vessels. More to the point, its traditional Maldivian design is just what is needed for the typical range of one or two-week cruises.

The Sea Queen has a more homely, intimate atmosphere than most of the world-class vessels currently operating, but its strength lies in the attention to detail. Owner Rob Bryning of Maldives Scuba Tours is a well-travelled diver, and has a good idea of the treats and features that make life more agreeable at sea. It may be only 24m long, but the Sea Queen has a spacious lounge, a huge sundeck and accommodation for 12 divers in six cabins. Meals are served on a large table located in a covered area on the bow - the Maldives has the perfect climate for alfresco dining and the meals are arguably the best of any of the liveaboards in this feature - as long as you like curry!

Everything works on the Sea Queen - space may not be unlimited, but there is a place for all the usual divers' gadgets, including the ones that need to be charged. When you need air conditioning, you know it will work; when you come up from your afternoon dive, you know there'll always be a tasty treat waiting for you back on the liveaboard. The hot water is always there if you want it and there is always a spot to find peace and contemplate the beautiful sunsets of the Indian Ocean.

The Sea Queen's weakest point is the cabins - only two of them have the twin berths associated with top-end liveaboards. If you get one of the others, one of you will have to put up with a top bunk, which is annoyingly smaller than the lower berth. Still, the air-conditioning and hot water both work faultlessly. Simon Rogerson

Itineraries: Although long-range 'expedition' trips are occasionally offered, some of the most rewarding dives are found around the central atolls Male and Ari (both of which have north and south atolls). Expect to see mantas, schooling snapper, wrecks and the famous soft-coral caves. The best dives take place in the channels, where moving water encourages frenzied fish activity.

Contact:

Maldives Scuba Tours
01449 780220
email: info@scubascuba.cominfo@scubascuba.com website: www.scubascuba.com