Yes. Since you will be doing 3-4 dives per day for a week, Nitrox significantly reduces nitrogen loading and fatigue.

Do I need to tip the crew?

Yes. It is standard to tip 100-200 USD per person at the end of the trip, which is divided among the dive guides and boat crew.

Planning a Maldives Diving Liveaboard Trip

Book a liveaboard during the dry season (December to April) to maximize visibility and encounter migratory species like manta rays and whale sharks. Select a route based on your experience level: Central Atolls for beginners and general wildlife, or the Deep South for advanced pelagic sightings.

Choose your seasonal window. For the best chance to see whale sharks and mantas, aim for November to May. June to October brings the southwest monsoon, which means rougher seas and lower visibility, though it is the best time for hammerhead sightings in the southern channels.
Select the right route. Most operators offer three main routes: 'Best of Central Atolls' (7 days, calm waters, mantas), 'Southern Atolls' (10-14 days, strong currents, sharks), and 'Deep South' (requires 100+ dives, specialized pelagics).
Check your certification. Ensure you have an Advanced Open Water certification and at least 50 logged dives. Many remote channels in the Maldives have strong currents; if you lack experience, you will be excluded from the best dive sites on the itinerary.
Book your international flights to match transfer windows. Most boats depart from Male (MLE) on Saturday or Sunday. Arrive at least one day before departure to account for flight delays; if you miss the boat transfer, you will likely have to pay a private seaplane fee to catch up with the vessel.

Is Nitrox necessary?: Yes. Since you will be doing 3-4 dives per day for a week, Nitrox significantly reduces nitrogen loading and fatigue.
Do I need to tip the crew?: Yes. It is standard to tip 100-200 USD per person at the end of the trip, which is divided among the dive guides and boat crew.