If you are planning a trip to the Maldives to explore its extraordinary underwater world, it is essential to understand the new taxes for diving tourists that will take effect in 2025.
Green Tax Increase: What Changes from January 1, 2025
From January 1, 2025, the Green Tax for tourists in the Maldives will see a significant increase. If you stay in a resort, hotel, guesthouse, or tourist vessel, you will pay $12 per person per night (up from the previous $6).
For guesthouses on inhabited islands with fewer than 50 rooms, the tax will be $6 per person per night (up from the previous $3).
Children under 2 years old will be exempt from this tax, a decision aimed at making travel more accessible for families.
The Impact of Green Tax on Diving Cruises
If you choose a liveaboard experience with Top Class Cruising, it is important to know that starting January 1, 2025, a $6 per night per guest integration will be applied, payable directly onboard in cash (USD).
Starting in August 2025, the full amount of the Green Tax will no longer be included in package prices but will be collected separately onboard. This alignment with the new regulations ensures transparency and compliance.
Additionally, affordable dive safaris Maldives and Maldives diving packages will reflect these changes, making it crucial for divers to plan accordingly.
Tourism Goods and Services Tax (TGST): Increase from July 1, 2025
The TGST (Tourism Goods and Services Tax) will increase from 16% to 17% starting July 1, 2025. This increase will apply to all tourism-related goods and services, including diving cruises. If you are planning a trip, it is important to consider these additional costs in your budget.
For those traveling on liveaboard vessels like those offered by Top Class Cruising, this increase will be managed through adjustments to onboard service pricing. Special offers, such as luxury dive cruises Maldives and family-friendly dive trips Maldives, will also be updated.
Airport Taxes and Departure Fees: New Rules from December 1, 2024
Airport taxes will also increase starting December 1, 2024. Foreign tourists will pay:
- $50 for economy class
- $120 for business class
- $240 for first class
- $480 for private jets
These changes align with the Maldivian government’s commitment to improving infrastructure. Options such as eco-friendly dive cruises Maldives and Maldives underwater adventures remain a key attraction despite the adjustments.
How to Manage the New Costs: Practical Tips
- Carry Cash in USD: All additional taxes, including the Green Tax and service fees, must be paid onboard in cash.
- Update Your Bookings: Ensure that cost information is clearly communicated at the time of booking.
- Take Advantage of Top Class Cruising Offers: Liveaboard cruises offer competitive packages. However, it is important to note that the recent tax changes, including the Green Tax and TGST, may influence the overall cost of these experiences.Unique activities like night dives, manta ray encounters, and whale shark sightings remain accessible, but divers should plan ahead for these additional fees. Exploring Maldives dive cruise deals can help balance costs and ensure a memorable adventure.
Why Are These Taxes Necessary?
The Maldivian government has implemented these changes to fund sustainability initiatives and protect fragile marine ecosystems, which are among the most biodiverse in the world.
The Green Tax plays a critical role in supporting programs aimed at preserving coral reefs, combating climate change, and protecting endangered marine species such as manta rays and whale sharks. By opting for exclusive dive experiences Maldives or dive and sail Maldives, tourists actively contribute to these essential efforts.
At Top Class Cruising, preserving the underwater world is a core value, and the company continuously strives to offer eco-friendly diving adventures that align with global conservation goals. This ensures that both present and future generations can continue to marvel at the Maldives’ unique beauty.
Procedures and Timelines for the Changes
According to official communications, partners like Top Class Cruising have already updated their systems to comply with the new regulations. Starting in August 2025, pricing changes will include:
- Service Fee increased to $150 per person for 7-night cruises.
- Green Tax collected separately onboard.
These adjustments ensure compliance while maintaining the high-quality experiences of Maldives diving expeditions.
Conclusion: Plan Your Diving Trip with Confidence
The Maldives remains one of the world’s most sought-after destinations for scuba diving, and with the help of Top Class Cruising, you can experience an unforgettable adventure.
Being informed about the new taxes for diving tourists and additional costs will help you better plan your trip and fully enjoy the unique beauty of this paradise. Explore options like best liveaboard Maldives and Maldives marine life encounters for a memorable journey.
For more information or to book your next diving adventure, visit the official Top Class Cruising website and discover the best offers for 2025.
