Maldives Sandbank Trips: How to Visit a Private Sandbank
Deserted white sand · Private picnic · Short ride from Hulhumalé
How much is a private sandbank trip in the Maldives?
A private sandbank trip near Malé costs from 💬 WhatsApp for price per group with Day Charter Maldives, including the boat, crew, snorkelling gear and a picnic setup. Trips depart Hulhumalé and reach the sandbank in about 15–20 minutes. Timing matters: sandbanks are best visited at low tide.
Why departure time varies daily.
Sandbanks shrink or vanish at high tide — we schedule every departure around the tide table, which is why we don't publish fixed departure times. A sandbank that's waist-deep at high tide can be 30 metres wide of dry white sand at low tide. When you book, we confirm the optimal departure time for your specific date.
The best window is typically 2–3 hours either side of low tide. Morning low tides (common December–April) also give the best photography light.
Choose your trip.
Sandbank Express
- Private sandbank landing
- Drinks & fruit
- Swimming & photography
Sandbank + Snorkel
- Private sandbank with picnic
- Coral reef snorkel nearby
- Snorkelling gear & towels
Full Day (Sandbank + More)
- Sandbank picnic
- Two reef snorkels
- Local island or dolphin cruise
Your boat: the Saxdor 400 GTC
Day Charter Maldives offers private day charters aboard a Saxdor 400 GTC — a 12.5-metre Scandinavian-designed sports yacht carrying up to 12 guests at up to 40 knots, with an enclosed air-conditioned cabin, bow sunpads and a wide swim platform. It departs Hulhumalé, 10 minutes from Malé airport.
Everything you need to know.
We use sandbanks in the shallow lagoons of North and South Malé Atoll, approximately 15–30 minutes from Hulhumalé. The specific sandbank is chosen on the morning of your trip based on tide conditions and availability. We always choose for maximum solitude.
Yes — we set up a shade umbrella, rugs, cushions, a cool box with fruit and drinks, and space to swim on both sides. Upgraded setups with a dining table, florals and a celebration cake are available on request.
Sandbanks sit only slightly above sea level — at high tide many reduce to a sliver or disappear completely. This is why we time every departure around the tide table. You'll always arrive when the bank is at or near its widest.
Yes — a private sandbank is one of the most popular proposal and vow renewal settings in the Maldives. We arrange flowers, lanterns, rose petals, a photographer and a celebrant on request. See our proposals page for full details.
As long as you'd like — there's no fixed schedule. Most guests spend 1–2.5 hours on the bank itself, with snorkelling and the cruise filling the rest of the trip time. Private means private.
Sandbanks have no natural shade — they're flat, open sand. We bring a shade umbrella as standard. If you'd like a larger shaded canopy or tent, ask us and we'll arrange it.
Check availability for your dates
Tell us your date, group size and what you have in mind. We reply with the right options and a transparent price — no obligation.
