Universal Boatyard launches UNICRAFT 55 for Maldives dive and excursion market
Universal Boatyard has announced the launch of the UNICRAFT 55, a next-generation vessel thoughtfully designed to meet the growing and evolving needs of the Maldivian dive and excursion market. Blending traditional Maldivian craftsmanship with modern marine innovation, the UNICRAFT 55 offers a versatile and high-performing solution for operators across the tourism industry.
The UNICRAFT 55 has been developed as a multi-purpose vessel, perfectly suited for a range of activities including diving, snorkelling, leisure fishing, and island-hopping excursions. Inspired by the Maldives’ rich maritime heritage, the boat reflects a 100% locally driven design, capturing the essence of authentic island life while delivering practical functionality at sea.
A standout feature of the UNICRAFT 55 is its diver-focused layout. It includes clearly defined wet and dry areas, allowing for better organisation, comfort, and efficiency during dive operations. The vessel also offers generous storage space for equipment and spare gear, making it an excellent choice for extended dive trips. In addition, a carefully designed hardtop relaxation area gives divers a comfortable place to rinse off, rest, or simply unwind between dives.
When it comes to performance, the UNICRAFT 55 delivers impressive results. With a cruising speed of 18 knots, it is notably faster than many traditional dive boats in the Maldives. This allows operators to reach dive sites more quickly, optimise daily schedules, and enhance the overall guest experience.
The vessel has also been built with high-capacity operations in mind, making it ideal for snorkelling excursions and island-hopping trips. Its spacious and practical layout ensures that larger groups can be accommodated comfortably without sacrificing safety or onboard experience.
Comfort has been a key focus throughout the design process. Thanks to advanced engineering, the UNICRAFT 55 offers minimal vibration and a smooth, stable ride, even on longer journeys—ensuring passengers can relax and fully enjoy their time on the water.
Speaking on the launch, Shameem Mohamed, General Manager of Universal Boatyard, said: “The UNICRAFT 55 reflects our commitment to building vessels that are both innovative and deeply rooted in Maldivian tradition. We wanted to create something that truly meets the needs of today’s operators while enhancing the guest experience. It’s a boat we are proud to say is designed and built right here in the Maldives.”
With the introduction of the UNICRAFT 55, Universal Boatyard continues to strengthen its reputation for delivering high-quality, locally inspired marine solutions that prioritise performance, durability, and comfort.
