Sri Lanka to Maldives

20 Feb 2027 - 9 Mar 2027

(17 days)

Join us on a stunning 430 nautical mile passage from Colombo, Sri Lanka, to the vibrant capital of Malé in the Maldives. Our journey continues with a further 650 nautical miles of exploration as we sail through this archipelago, seeking out its most idyllic atolls.

The Maldives is a true Indian Ocean gem, celebrated for its unparalleled natural beauty. An archipelago of over 1,190 coral islands and 26 atolls, it offers a visual feast of white-sand beaches, crystal-clear turquoise lagoons, and lush palm trees. Below the surface, a world of wonder awaits, as the Maldives is home to some of the planet's most vibrant and diverse coral reef ecosystems, making it a premier destination for divers and snorkelers.

What to Expect: Sri Lanka to Maldives

A Passage to Paradise

Leaving the historic ramparts of Galle behind, we set sail across the Laccadive Sea. This 450-nautical-mile voyage is a classic Indian Ocean crossing that takes us from a world of tea plantations and colonial history into the lowest-lying nation on Earth. As we head southwest, watch the depth sounder drop into the thousands of meters before the vibrant coral walls of the Maldives rise to meet us.

Life on Board

The Daily Rhythm

Who is this for?

• Mastering the Trades: This 3-to-4 day passage is where you truly find your "sea legs." As an active crew member, you’ll be part of the watch rotation, learning to trim the sails for the steady Indian Ocean breezes. You’ll gain hands-on experience in night navigation, steering by the stars and the glow of the compass.

• The "Oceanic Highway": This stretch of water is a hotspot for marine life. You’ll assist the crew in spotting the megafauna that call these deep waters home. Between watches, there is time to learn about weather routing, check the fishing lines, or simply enjoy the 360-degree horizon from the deck of our 70ft yacht.

• Shared Journey: Life on Wind Shift is collaborative. You’ll help prepare fresh meals as we tilt into the swells and share stories with your fellow explorers during the "sundowner" shift as the sky turns shades of violet and gold.

• The Crossing: The passage is a time for disconnection and rhythm. You’ll experience the thrill of the yacht surging through the deep blue, the peace of a morning coffee as the sun breaks the horizon, and the meditative focus required to hold a steady course across the sea.

• The Arrival (The Northern Atolls): Most travelers only see the Maldives near the capital, Male. We do things differently. Our landfall is often in the Northern Atolls (like Haa Alifu), where there are no resorts—just untouched reefs, traditional fishing villages, and crystal-clear lagoons.

• The First Dive: There is nothing like the first swim after a passage. Once we drop anchor, you’ll dive off the sugar scoop into 30-meter visibility, trading the deep cobalt of the ocean for the neon colors of the Maldivian coral gardens.

This trip is for the aspiring ocean sailor. It’s the ideal leg for those who want to experience a genuine offshore passage without committing to weeks at sea. If you want to combine the thrill of a blue-water crossing with the reward of arriving in the world’s most beautiful archipelago, this Sri Lanka to Maldives voyage is for you.

What’s Included

• Expedition aboard Wind Shift with skipper and crew

• Meals prepared with local ingredients, served and shared onboard

• All non-alcoholic beverages; tea/coffee always available

• Guided hikes, snorkelling, scuba tanks *, paddleboards, and tenders

• Bedding, towels, hot showers, and safety equipment

• Storytelling meals and authentic expedition atmosphere

* For your safety and enjoyment, all diving excursions are at the discretion of the skipper and require a valid PADI certification and demonstrated ability.

What’s Not Included

• Flights or transfers to and from Colombo, Sri Lanka and Malé, Maldives

• Alcohol (available as a paid upgrade)

• Travel insurance (required)

• Optional add-ons (e.g., fly-out, wine pairing, guided hike)

Our Yacht

Sail aboard Wind Shift, our expertly equipped 70-foot ocean-going yacht. With a legacy of global voyages and competitive pedigree, Wind Shift is the perfect platform to tackle this amazing adventure.

Investment

Shared Bunk Berth (Main Cabin – 8 guests): AUD 11,250 pp

Shared Twin Cabin (2 guests): AUD 12,375 pp

Early Bird Discount: Save $1,100 pp if you book before 7th October 2026.

This adventure qualifies for Frequent Sailor Discount (Learn More)

Why You’ll Love This Adventure

• Authentic Exploration: Remote anchorages, rare hiking trails, silent reflections, incredible wildlife and fauna.

• Comfort & Camaraderie: Small group, big boat—deep connections, plenty of space.

• Safety & Heritage: Sail aboard an MCA-certified expedition yacht built for ocean journeys.

Reserve Your Place

Spaces limited to 10 guests

Secure your spot with a 10% deposit

Sri Lanka to Maldives