Explorer Ventures Fleet is expanding its global liveaboard portfolio with two new vessels, adding the Emperor Explorer II in the Maldives and Manta X in Indonesia.
The expansion strengthens Explorer Ventures’ presence in two of the world’s most established liveaboard diving destinations, with the new vessels offering divers additional opportunities to explore remote reefs, pelagic-rich waters and some of the Indo-Pacific’s most celebrated dive regions.
Emperor Explorer II now sailing in the Maldives
The newly built Emperor Explorer II is already sailing in the Maldives following its launch in partnership with Emperor Divers.
Designed specifically for liveaboard diving and long-distance cruising, the vessel combines spacious accommodation with large indoor and outdoor lounge areas.
Diving is conducted from a fully equipped 24-metre (78-foot) dive dhoni, with its own crew, while four dive guides are available onboard. The vessel also features dedicated camera facilities and offers complimentary Nitrox.
Emperor Explorer II operates established Maldives itineraries across the region’s two distinct diving seasons, providing year-round opportunities to encounter manta rays, whale sharks, coral reefs and channel dives.
The Maldives is particularly renowned for its seasonal manta and whale shark encounters, while its channel diving can provide some of the destination’s most exhilarating underwater experiences.
Manta X launches in Indonesia
Explorer Ventures will add a second new vessel to its portfolio in November, when Manta X begins operating in Indonesia.
The newly built 41-metre (135-foot) steel liveaboard, operated by White Manta Diving, joins sisterships Blue Manta Explorer and White Manta Explorer.
Manta X accommodates up to 20 guests in 12 spacious ensuite cabins, including two Upper Deck Master Suites.
The vessel has been designed around both comfort and diving, with expansive indoor and outdoor lounge areas, a dedicated camera room, a spacious dive deck and Nitrox facilities. Guests will also have access to chef-prepared Western and Asian cuisine.
With up to 20 crew members onboard and diving conducted in small groups, Explorer Ventures says guests can expect attentive and personalised service throughout their itineraries.
Raja Ampat, Komodo and beyond
Manta X will operate itineraries covering some of Indonesia’s most sought-after diving regions.
Its planned destinations include:
- Raja Ampat
- Misool
- Komodo
- Alor
- Banda Sea
- Ambon
- Triton Bay
Seasonal routing will allow divers to experience dramatic reef systems, volcanic islands, pelagic encounters and Indonesia’s exceptional macro life.
Together, the destinations encompass a broad range of underwater experiences across one of the world’s most biodiverse marine regions.
“These additions reflect our commitment to continually expanding the experiences we offer our guests,” said Clay McCardell, Founder of Explorer Ventures Fleet.
“Aboard Emperor Explorer II and Manta X, divers can expect thoughtfully designed vessels, knowledgeable onboard teams, and carefully crafted itineraries that bring out the very best of each destination.”
Reservations for both Emperor Explorer II and Manta X are now open.
Explorer Ventures’ liveaboard operation
Explorer Ventures says it has been delivering liveaboard diving since 1987, with a focus on safety, guest experience and environmental responsibility.
Its fleet operates in destinations including the Caribbean, Galápagos, Red Sea, Maldives, Indonesia and Palau, with purpose-built vessels and itineraries designed to reach remote dive sites and maximise time in the water.
The company launched its Dive Green® environmental policy in 2008 and says it became the first liveaboard fleet to partner with Green Fins in 2018, with several vessels now certified.
With the addition of Emperor Explorer II and Manta X, Explorer Ventures is continuing to expand its global liveaboard offering while giving divers more options for exploring the Maldives and Indonesia.
Reservations and further information: Explorer Ventures Fleet
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