Welcome to an extraordinary travel expedition that promises the perfect blend of cultural exploration and underwater adventure! Embark on a journey with us as we take you first to the heart of enchanting Sri Lanka, and then plunge into the crystal-clear depths of the Maldives in Gan.
Full Price (ex Melbourne): Diver - $6960.00 NZD* Non-Diver - $5552.00 NZD*
Welcome to an extraordinary travel expedition that promises the perfect blend of cultural exploration and underwater adventure! Embark on a journey with us as we take you first to the heart of enchanting Sri Lanka, and then plunge into the crystal-clear depths of the Maldives in Gan.
"In October 2023, I embarked on a journey that can only be described as extraordinary! This trip effortlessly checked all the boxes, offering a perfect blend of culture, heritage, wildlife, comfort, relaxation, and unforgettable diving experiences. While the Maldives had always been on my travel wishlist, Sri Lanka pleasantly surprised me, surpassing all expectations. The entire country was awe-inspiring, but the Sigirya Fortress held a special place in my heart – a destination I believe everyone should experience. The diving adventures in the Maldives were nothing short of amazing. While the coral was impressive, it was not the sole highlight. This destination is a paradise for those dreaming of encountering Manta Rays, Sharks, and Turtles. The resort at Gan was ideal, the pool, food and location was exceptional, the perfect place to relax and play"
Virginia Watson, Director Dive Otago
Inland Cultural tour of Sri Lanka:
Our adventure commences in the heart of Sri Lanka, where the allure of the Elephant Orphanage Pinnawala sets the stage for an unforgettable journey. Witness the gentle giants and their endearing antics as they roam freely in their natural habitat.
Next, explore the mystical depths of Dambulla Cave Rock Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site adorned with ancient murals and statues that tell tales of bygone eras.
Immerse yourself in the natural wonders of Minneriya National Park, where the wilderness comes alive with diverse flora and fauna. Embark on a safari, led by experienced guides, as you encounter herds of majestic elephants and other exotic wildlife against the backdrop of scenic landscapes.
Ascend the iconic Sigiriya Rock Fortress, an architectural masterpiece that stands as a testament to ancient ingenuity. With the expertise of our local guide, unravel the historical significance of each step and marvel at the panoramic views from the summit.
Conclude the Sri Lankan leg of your journey with a tranquil Mangrove boat trip, meandering through lush waterways that unveil the hidden beauty of the area. Let the serenity of the mangroves captivate your senses, providing a serene interlude before the next chapter of your expedition.
Inclusions: All transfers All entrance fees
Exclusions: SRI LANKA VISA https://esrilankavisa.org/Apply-visa Sri Lanka Digital Arrival Card must be completed within 72 hours of your arrival into Sri Lanka : https://eservices.immigration.gov.lk/emb/eEmbarkation/'#/home- page Tips and porterage
Diving in the Maldives!:
Diving in Gan, Maldives, is a journey into the mesmerising depths of the Indian Ocean, where each underwater adventure offers something new. Gan, situated in the southern atolls, offers a diving experience that stands out for its diverse marine life, coral reefs and the largest shipwreck in the Maldives
One of the highlights of diving in Gan is the opportunity to encounter majestic manta rays gracefully gliding through the crystal-clear waters. Manta Point, a renowned dive site, is a magnet for these gentle giants, offering divers a front-row seat to witness their elegant movements and perhaps even engage in a dance with these remarkable creatures. A camera is a must on this time as you will want to relive this experience for years to come
For those seeking a thrilling encounter, Gan is also known for its population of sharks. Dive enthusiasts can embark on exhilarating excursions to witness these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat, an experience that also remains etched in memory as a rare and awe-inspiring spectacle.
Gan's underwater world is adorned with coral gardens, where a the fish live comes alive. Divers can explore intricate coral formations that provide shelter to an abundance of marine life, from dazzling fish in all shapes and sizes to elusive seahorses and turtles gracefully navigating through the coral labyrinth.
The dive sites around Gan cater to divers of all experience levels, from beginners to seasoned enthusiasts. The British Loyalty shipwreck is 134 metres long and sits at a depth of 33 metres, lying on its portside. From the surface, when visibility is good, it is possible to see the starboard-side railings 15 metres below. The propeller is at a depth of between 23m and 28m and originally had 4 blades, each 2m long.
In addition to the captivating underwater world, Gan provides a serene retreat on land, allowing divers to relax on pristine beaches and absorb the tropical beauty that surrounds them. Diving in Gan, Maldives, is not just an activity; it's an immersion into a world of wonder and beauty, leaving divers with memories of an aquatic paradise that lingers long after the bubbles have surfaced.
Diverland Gan (Gan, Maldives)
Inclusions: 1 shore dive on dive of arrival - unescorted 13 boat dives - 6 dive days per diver Tank/weight/air fills Based special rate from Dive centre
Exclusions: Dive equipment hire Nitrox Staff gratuity
Sri lankan Airlines
04 October 20244:10pm Depart Melbourne in Economy Class on Sri Lankin Airlines flight number UL605 to Colombo. Arrive Colombo 10:25pm 08 October 202412:15pm Depart Colombo in Economy Class on Sri Lankin Airlines flight number UL119 to Gan. Arrive Gan 1:40pm 15 October 20242:40pm Depart Gan in Economy Class on Sri Lankin Airlines flight number UL120 to Colombo. Arrive Colombo 5:05pm 16 October 202412:20am Depart Colombo in Economy Class on Sri Lankin Airlines flight number UL604 to Melbourne. Arrive Colombo 2:40
Inclusions: standard twin, All meals - breakfast lunch dinner, All inclusive beverage package from 0900-2300 Daily cocktails of the day/basic spirits/local beers/juices/water soft drinks Afternoon tea 4.00pm-6.00pm. Free use of bicyles. One free snorkel trip per day (min 2 pax) - excludes snorkelling equipment Free Island hopping by boat tour (min 6 pax) - every Thursday and Monday Green tax $6 usd per person per night. Return transfer from Gan Airport
Exclusions: All travellers must complete Maldives arrival and departure declaration within 72 hours of travel https://travel.immigration.gov.mv
Optional single supplement Maldives add $595.00 NZD
In the resort, you can do some fun activities, such as playing tennis, table tennis, table football, pool and many water activities like canoeing, jet ski, paddle boarding, snorkeling, etc. You can even rent a bike and cycle around the island. But if you do that, make sure to cover your shoulders and legs (especially women) as Maldivians are mostly Islamic.
Dolphin cruise is also a great experience. You can actually see dolphins on the way during any boat trip, but here you go straight for them and when you do see them, it's just incredible. They are jumping all around and playing; you can't get bored of that sight easily.
Another cool trip is the one to Addu Nature Park. Great place to see many birds and other wildlife on the Maldives. You can explore it by bikes or golf carts or if you have enough time and energy, by foot. A great thing to do is to snorkel there as it has a live reef.
Deposit
$750 Per Person
Deposits paid are non refundable and non transferable
Balance due 60 days prior to departure.
Instalment Payments
Additional instalment payments or larger deposit may be required by us for supplier instalments and to ensure your booking is secure.
Final Payments
Final payments are due 60 days prior to travel, 90 days for liveaboards. In addition some operators may have their own payment conditions which may vary from standard payment deadlines, additional payments will be advised. Where other supplier discounts are utilised, different conditions and payment schedules may apply; this may alter final payment deadline. Full details are available from your booking agent or Allways Dive Expeditions, the onus rests with you to contact us for these details.
Cancellations and Refunds
ALL INITIAL DEPOSITS ARE NON REFUNDABLE AND NON TRANSFERABLE.Instalment payments whether invoiced or made voluntarily are subject to administration fee deduction by Allways Dive Expeditions and operator cancellation policies including those of your booking agent. We will endeavour to secure any applicable refunds from operators on your behalf for monies paid, however all refunds are subject to cancellation requirements and costs that may occur. NO refunds are possible where notice of cancellation is given inside of 90 days prior to departure. The onus of obtaining details pursuant to individual operators and being fully informed of individual operator refund conditions rests with you the traveller
Errors and Omissions
Allways Dive Expeditions and its booking agents have made every endeavour to ensure details and pricings are correct, however due to changes in airline fares and other charges, prices are subject to increase prior to departure without notice. Fluctuations in exchange rates affect costing.
Exchange Rates at time of pricing is: 1 nzd = .65 usd
Fees
General amendment fee: General amendments will incur a $50.00 amendment fee. Late payment fee: Final payments not paid by due date will incur a late payment fee of $50.00 per person. Late bookings: A late booking fee of $75.00 is levied for bookings made less than 7 days prior to departure. Wholesalers and Operators may also levy an amendment fee which will be an additional charge, contact us for details.
Your Details
Please ensure names you have advised us are absolutely correct according to your passport. Name changes in regards to airline ticketing will incur an amendment fee or issuance of a brand new ticket. The fees levied for these services are levied by the Airlines. Airline fees will not be absorbed by Allways Dive Expeditions or its agents and will be payable by the passenger to whom the charge relates.
Visas
Please contact the office if you have been convicted of a criminal offence, visa conditions may apply.
Health
Consult your doctor in regards to medical and immunisation advice.
Disclaimer
Sales of all services described in this document are made by Allways Dive Expeditions as a disclosed agent for the person or company providing those services. You release and discharge Allways Dive Expeditions to the full extent possible at law for liability relating to any loss and /or damage suffered by you or any other person named on this document- Including but not limited to: a) Loss of prepaid diving activities b) Theft of luggage or personal belongings c) Illness injury, or death and d) Any charges made by any of the service providers e) Delays, omissions, accidents or negligence caused by any party f) Any other loss or damage whatsoever.
Travel Insurance
NOT COMPULSORY BUT DEFINITELY ESSENTIAL. Insurance is highly recommended when travelling and covers you from the time of issuance, cover yourself and your monies paid for any given departure by insuring yourself for the departure. Contact us for a PDS and application form. Talk to us about how travel Insurance can protect your deposit and other payments.
Passport
Your passport must have a min 6 months validity past your intended return date. Your passport must have a min of 2 unstamped pages for valid travel. Airline policy indicates passengers with less than 6 months validity and / or 2 unused pages in their valid passport will not be cleared for boarding!.
