Frequently Asked Questions

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### How to Get to Thulusdhoo: Speedboat Ferry vs. Private Speedboat

If you're planning a trip to Thulusdhoo, a stunning destination in the Maldives, you have two main transportation options: **scheduling a speedboat ferry** or **hiring a private speedboat**. Here’s a detailed look at both options to help you choose the best way to reach this beautiful island.

 Option 1: Schedule a Speedboat Ferry

Numerous companies operate **speedboat ferries** from **Malé**, the capital of the Maldives, to **Thulusdhoo**. These ferries run **regularly** and can be booked in advance, making them a convenient choice for travelers. 

- **Duration**: The journey takes approximately **30 minutes**.

- **Cost**: The price is around **US$25 one way per person**.

This option is ideal for budget-conscious travelers who prefer a straightforward and reliable mode of transportation.

 Option 2: Hire a Private Speedboat

For those seeking a more exclusive and flexible experience, **hiring a private speedboat** is an excellent alternative. This option can be arranged through local boat operators or your guesthouse.

- **Flexibility**: You can choose your own schedule and make multiple stops along the way, allowing for a more personalized journey.

- **Cost**: While generally more expensive (between US$ 200- US$ 250)  than the scheduled speedboat ferry, the benefits of privacy and convenience can outweigh the cost for many travelers.

Important Considerations

When planning your trip to Thulusdhoo, keep in mind that the availability of both transportation options may vary based on the time of year and local conditions. It’s always wise to check in advance to ensure that your preferred mode of transportation is available for your travel dates.

By considering these options, you can enhance your travel experience to Thulusdhoo and enjoy everything this beautiful Maldivian island has to offer!

• Be comfortable in the water before learning to dive.
• Choose a dive center with good reviews and suitable certifications for beginner divers.
• Practice in confined area before diving in open waters.
• Ask your dive instructor questions, no matter how small they may seem.
• Pay attention to the coursework and theory involved in your training.
• Drink plenty of water to stay healthy and avoid dehydration while diving.
• Avoid drinking alcohol as it can lead to dehydration, sickness, and lack of concentration.
• Keep calm and practice rhythmic breathing for a successful dive.
• Always listen to and follow your dive instructor's guidance for safety.
• Wait at least 24 hours after diving before flying to prevent decompression sickness.

Our daily diving schedule includes three dives each day to diffrent spots, tailored to provide the best underwater experience:

• Times: 8:00 AM - 12:30 PM
• Details: Two dives are offered during the morning hours when the ocean is typically calmer and clearer, ensuring optimal visibility and marine life encounters.

• Time: 2:00 PM - 5:00 PM
• Details: One dive in the afternoon allows you to explore the underwater world while the sun is still shining, maintaining good visibility.

• Time: 7:00 AM - 11:30 AM
• Details: On Fridays, an additional morning dive is available, designed to maximize your chances of seeing active marine life.

Our diving schedule is crafted to enhance your diving adventure while considering local conditions and marine behavior. Whether you are an experienced diver or a beginner, our team of skilled professionals is here to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

### Dive Center Registration for Your Underwater Adventure

To **sign up for diving**, visit our **dive center**, where you will complete the **registration forms** and have your **diving gear** thoroughly checked. We require that you **register at least one day** before your scheduled activity to ensure we have ample time to prepare for your exciting **diving adventure**.

 *Registration Process*

To secure your spot, please provide your exact preferred dates for the course. This allows us to reserve your space in advance. You can then visit our **dive center** to complete the necessary registration, fill out **liability forms**, and check your dive gear sizes. When registering, if you are a certified diver, please provide proof of your **Open Water Diver certification**. If you have any medical concerns, a doctor’s approval note will be required. We recommend arriving or meeting us a day prior to your activity for registration at our **dive center**.

If you're unable to visit our **dive center** during opening hours, feel free to call or text us at our **WhatsApp/Viber number**: +9607832179. Our team is here to assist you with any questions and help you with the **diving registration process**.

Here’s some information about our Discover Scuba Diving (DSD) program, designed for beginners, non-certified divers, and those who are not strong swimmers. The minimum age to join is 10 years and older. This is a 2-hour experience program scheduled daily from 2:00 PM to 4:30 PM.

• Learning about dive gear: 30 minutes of presentation
• Practicing basic skills in the water: 10-15 minutes in shallow water
• Experiencing an Open Water Dive: 30-45 minutes, with a maximum depth of 12 meters

The total time in the water is approximately 1 hour, depending on the diver's breathing.

Please note that while you won’t receive certification, a certified PADI instructor will accompany you throughout the entire experience.

During the Open Water Dive, you will have the chance to see beautiful corals, turtles, sharks, rays, and various types of reef fish.

You will be accompanied by a certified PADI instructor throughout the experience. While this program does not provide certification, you will have the opportunity to explore our stunning dive sites, including beautiful corals, turtles, sharks, rays, and various reef fish while snorkeling as well.

The cost for a single DSD session is US$150 per person. We accept payments in only USD cash or credit card (please note that a 3.5% bank fee applies for card payments).

• Minimum Age: 10 years and above
• Any medical condition, a doctor's approval for diving will be required.
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To reserve your spot, we recommend arriving a day before your scheduled activity to complete registration and check your dive gear.

• Saturday to Thursday: 08:00 - 12:00 and 14:00 - 17:00
• Friday: 7:30 - 10:00 and 14:30 - 17:00

If you cannot visit during these hours, please inform us, and we will arrange for someone to meet you at a convenient time.

For your convenience, here’s the link to our dive center location: Sea Star Diving Location

After completing your Discover Scuba Diving experience with us, you have the exciting opportunity to join us for additional dives! We can arrange a boat dive with the same instructor for just an additional $100 per dive.

You can also take advantage of our morning trips, which include two dives, or opt for an afternoon trip featuring one dive. This is a fantastic way to enhance your diving skills and explore more of the underwater world!

The Maldives has two distinct seasons: the dry season, which runs from December to April, and the wet season, occurring from May to November.

During the dry season, the waters are calm, and visibility is excellent, making it the perfect time for deep diving adventures. At Sea Star Diving, we offer explorations of popular dive sites such as Turtle Reef, Aquarium, and Colosseum, where you can encounter a rich variety of marine life, including eagle rays, reef sharks, and giant trevallies. This season is ideal for underwater photography and snorkeling, attracting both beginners and experienced divers.

The wet season brings unpredictable weather, occasional rain showers, and rougher seas. Given these conditions, we plan to finalize the dive sites just 1 or 2 days in advance during weeks with bad weather. However, I want to assure you that this time of year offers excellent fish life, and there are also high chances of spotting manta rays and more sharks during our dives. The water temperature remains warm, ranging from 27°C to 30°C, and visibility can still be quite good for diving (up to 30 meters from December to April and 15 to 20 meters from May to November).

• ✅ Multilingual dive instructors & small group ratios ensure personalized attention and safety.
• ✅ Year-round diving with warm water and excellent visibility, perfect for all levels of divers.
• ✅ Experience the breathtaking beauty of Maldives diving, known for its vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine ecosystems.

We are committed to providing diving opportunities all year round, ensuring a memorable experience in the Maldives. If you plan to dive during the wet season, proper preparation and setting realistic expectations will help guarantee an enjoyable experience.

Frequently Asked Questions about Sea Star Diving Courses

Question 1: What types of diving courses are offered by Sea Star Diving?

Answer:

Sea Star Diving offers a wide variety of PADI scuba diving courses suitable for all skill levels. We provide beginner courses for those new to diving, advanced courses for seasoned divers looking to enhance their skills, and professional training to become a Divemaster. Whether you’re just starting or are an experienced diver, we have the ideal course for you!

Question 2: What are the requirements to enroll in a diving course?

Answer:

To enroll in a diving course at Sea Star Diving, participants must be at least 10 years old for our Junior Open Water Diver courses and 15 years old for standard Open Water Diver and all advanced courses. No prior diving experience is required for beginner courses, but students should be comfortable in the water and possess basic swimming skills. For advanced courses, proof of prior certification and diving experience is necessary.

Question 3: What equipment do I need for diving?

Answer:

At Sea Star Diving, we provide all essential diving equipment, including wetsuits, masks, fins, BCDs (buoyancy control devices), regulators, dive computers, SMB, reef hooks, weights, and tanks. You only need to bring sunscreen, swimwear, a towel, and your adventurous spirit! If you prefer to use your own gear, feel free to bring it along for an equipment check.

Question 4: What is the duration of a diving course?

Answer:

The duration of our diving courses varies depending on the type you select. The PADI Discover Scuba Diving experience lasts about 2 hours, while the PADI Open Water Diver Course typically takes 4 days, encompassing theory sessions, confined water skills practice, and open water dives. Advanced courses may vary in length based on the certification level you wish to achieve. Specialty courses are generally shorter and focus on specific diving skills. Our friendly instructors will guide you through every step to ensure thorough training.

Question 5: Is it safe to dive with Sea Star Diving?

Answer:

Absolutely! Safety is our top priority at Sea Star Diving. Our PADI instructors are highly trained professionals with extensive diving experience. We follow strict safety protocols and conduct thorough equipment checks before every dive. Additionally, we provide comprehensive briefings and maintain small dive groups to enhance safety and individual attention. You can dive confidently, knowing you’re in safe hands throughout your experience with us.

Question 6: Can I go diving if I have a medical condition?

Answer:

It depends on the specific medical condition. Some medical issues may restrict certain diving activities, while others may require medical clearance from a physician. We recommend consulting with your doctor or a diving medical specialist to evaluate your suitability for diving. Your safety is paramount, so please inform us of any medical conditions or concerns before booking a dive with Sea Star Diving.

Question 7: What is the cancellation policy for diving courses?

Answer:

To cancel your diving course with Sea Star Diving, please notify us at least 7 days in advance. Note that paid PADI courses are non-refundable. However, if you encounter any issues, we can reschedule your course for a later date. We understand that unexpected circumstances can arise and will do our best to accommodate your needs. Please be aware that last-minute cancellations or no-shows may incur a cancellation fee. For more details on our cancellation policy, visit our website at Sea Star Diving Terms and Conditions or contact us directly.

Question 8: Can I book diving courses for a group?

Answer:

Absolutely! We welcome group bookings at Sea Star Diving. Whether you’re organizing a family vacation, a team-building event, or a group adventure, we can customize our diving courses to meet your needs. Just let us know the number of participants and any specific requirements, and we’ll ensure everyone has a fantastic diving experience together.

Question 9: What are the available dive sites with Sea Star Diving?

Answer:

Sea Star Diving offers dives at a variety of stunning locations. With over 25 dive sites, including long reefs, drop-offs, and channel dives, each site showcases different marine life and underwater topography. Popular dive sites feature vibrant coral reefs, intriguing underwater caves, and mesmerizing shipwreck. For more information, please visit Sea Star Diving Dive Sites. Each dive location offers unique experiences, and our knowledgeable instructors will guide you to the best spots based on your course, preferences, and current conditions.

Question 10: How do I book a diving course with Sea Star Diving?

Answer:

Booking a diving course with Sea Star Diving is simple! Just visit our website at www.seastarsdiving.com and "Contact Us" and let us know your preferred dates to complete the booking process. If you have any questions or need assistance, our friendly team is always ready to help via WhatsApp, +9607832179, or email info@seastarsdiving.com.

Question 11: Do I need to have my own diving insurance?

Answer:

While it is not mandatory, we highly recommend that all divers obtain diving insurance. This insurance can cover potential medical emergencies, equipment loss, and other unforeseen incidents while diving. Check with your insurance provider to ensure you have adequate coverage for diving activities.

Question 12: What should I do if I experience seasickness?

Answer:

If you are prone to seasickness, we recommend taking preventive measures before your dive. Over-the-counter medications can be effective; consult your doctor for recommendations. It’s also helpful to stay hydrated, eat light meals, and focus on the horizon while on the boat. Let our staff know if you need assistance.

Question 13: Are there age restrictions for diving courses?

Answer:

Yes, there are age restrictions. Participants must be at least 10 years old for our Junior Open Water Diver courses and 15 years old for standard Open Water Diver and advanced courses. We offer specialized programs for younger divers, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience.

Question 14: What if I’m not a strong swimmer?

Answer:

While basic swimming skills are required, you don’t have to be an expert swimmer to take our beginner courses. It’s essential to feel comfortable in the water, but our instructors will provide guidance and support to help you build confidence during your training.

Question 15: Can I take photos or videos while diving?

Answer:

Yes! Many divers enjoy capturing their underwater experiences. You can bring an underwater camera or rent one from us. Our instructors can also assist you with tips on how to take great underwater photos. Just be sure to follow safety protocols when using equipment underwater.

Question 16: What happens if the weather is bad on my scheduled dive day?

Answer:

Safety is our top priority, and we closely monitor weather conditions. If we determine that diving conditions are unsafe, we will cancel the dive and assist you in rescheduling for a later date. You will not incur any charges for dives canceled due to weather, except for PADI courses or paid dive packages, which are non-refundable.

Question 17: Are there any additional costs I should be aware of?

Answer:

While our course fees include equipment rental and instruction, there may be additional costs for optional activities, specialty courses, or diving insurance. It’s best to check with our staff for a complete breakdown of potential costs when you book.

Question 18: Can I dive if I’m pregnant?

Answer:

Diving during pregnancy is generally not recommended due to the potential risks to both the mother and the fetus. We advise consulting with your healthcare provider for personalized advice and to discuss any concerns you may have.

Question 19: What should I bring on a dive trip?

Answer:

For a dive trip, you should bring sunscreen, swimwear, a towel, a hat, and any personal items you may need. If you have your own diving gear, feel free to bring it along. Don’t forget your sense of adventure!

Question 20: Is there a minimum number of participants required for group courses?

Answer:

Yes, we typically require a minimum number of participants for group courses to ensure an engaging and interactive learning experience. However, we can accommodate individual bookings for private lessons or smaller groups. Please contact us for specific details.

Question 21: How can I improve my diving skills after completing a course?

Answer:

To enhance your diving skills, consider enrolling in advanced courses or specialty programs that focus on specific areas such as night diving, wreck diving, or underwater photography. Regular practice and diving with experienced divers can also help improve your skills.

Question 22: What is the difference between PADI and other diving certifications?

Answer:

PADI (Professional Association of Diving Instructors) is one of the most recognized and respected diving certification agencies worldwide. While there are other agencies like NAUI and SSI, PADI courses are widely available, and their certification is recognized globally, making it easier for divers to find training and dive opportunities.

Question 23: Can I dive with a buddy who is not certified?

Answer:

For safety reasons, it is essential to dive with a certified buddy. If your buddy is not certified, they can participate in our beginner courses, such as the Discover Scuba Diving experience, to gain basic skills and knowledge before diving together.

Question 24: What should I do if I feel anxious about diving?

Answer:

It’s normal to feel anxious before diving, especially for beginners. Communicate your concerns with your instructor, who can provide support and reassurance. Taking things at your own pace and focusing on breathing techniques can also help ease anxiety.

Question 25: Are there any environmental considerations when diving?

Answer:

Yes, we prioritize environmental conservation and encourage all divers to practice responsible diving. This includes not touching or disturbing marine life, avoiding contact with coral, and following all guidelines provided by your instructors to minimize our impact on the underwater ecosystem.

Question 26: Can I dive without completing a course?

Answer:

While it is possible to participate in guided dives without a certification through programs like Discover Scuba Diving, we highly recommend completing a full course to ensure you have the necessary skills and knowledge for safe diving.

Question 27: How do I maintain my diving certification?

Answer:

To maintain your diving certification, it’s essential to dive regularly and stay updated with diving practices. PADI recommends completing at least one dive every 6-12 months to keep your skills sharp. You can also take refresher courses if you haven’t dived in a while.

Question 28: What is the best time of year to dive with Sea Star Diving?

Answer:

The best time to dive often depends on the location and seasonal conditions. Generally, diving is great year-round, but specific seasons may offer better visibility or unique marine life sightings. Check with our team for the best times to dive based on your interests.

Question 29: Are there any age restrictions for diving equipment rental?

Answer:

There are no specific age restrictions for renting diving equipment, but minors must have parental consent and be accompanied by an adult. We ensure that all equipment is suitable for the diver's age and skill level.

Question 30: Can I get a refund if I am unable to attend a course?

Answer:

Paid PADI courses are non-refundable, but we can reschedule your course for another date if you encounter any issues. Please notify us as soon as possible to discuss your options.