Questions & Answers

Everything you need to know

From booking and pricing to visa tips and packing advice — answers to the questions we hear most.

General

An Ark Quest is a curated, multi-day Maldives travel experience designed by our local team. Unlike standard resort holidays, our quests take you island-hopping, immersing you in authentic Maldivian culture, marine life, cuisine, and adventure — all tailored to your interests and pace.

We are a 100% Maldivian-run team with deep local knowledge. We do not simply book resorts — we design personalised journeys that blend local islands, boutique stays, and unique experiences you will not find in any guidebook. Every quest is handcrafted, never a template.

Booking & Payment

We recommend booking at least 4-6 weeks in advance, especially during peak season (November to April). For holiday periods like Christmas and New Year, 3-6 months ahead is ideal. That said, we can sometimes accommodate last-minute requests — just reach out.

Each tier (Essential, Elevated, Luxe) includes a different level of accommodation, meals, transfers, and activities. All quests include a dedicated quest designer, airport meet-and-greet, and 24/7 local support. Detailed inclusions are listed on each quest page and in your personalised proposal.

Cancellations made 30 or more days before departure receive a full refund minus a small administration fee. Cancellations within 15-29 days receive a 50% refund. Within 14 days, unfortunately no refund can be offered. We strongly recommend travel insurance. Full details are in our Terms and Conditions.

Quests & Experiences

We recommend groups of 4–12 for the best experience. Smaller groups get a more intimate feel, while larger groups can take over an entire guesthouse for a private atmosphere.

Not at all! Our cooking classes are led by local chefs who guide you step by step. It is about the experience and fun, not perfection.

No certification is required. We offer introductory dives for beginners and can arrange PADI Open Water courses during your quest. Experienced divers can enjoy advanced sites including channel dives and night dives.

No prior experience needed. Our instructors cater to all levels, from complete beginners to advanced practitioners. Sessions are designed to be inclusive and restorative.

Depending on your tier, you will be aboard a traditional Maldivian dhoni (Essential/Elevated) or a modern motor yacht (Luxe). All vessels are comfortable, well-maintained, and crewed by experienced local sailors.

Yes! Many guests add a snorkeling excursion, a cooking class, or a cultural island walk to their Wellness Quest. We can blend elements from any quest into your itinerary.

The Maldives is known for calm, sheltered waters inside the atolls. Most guests experience no seasickness at all. We stay within protected lagoons and channels, especially during the dry season.

Yes. While Maldivian cuisine is traditionally fish-heavy, we can adapt all meals and cooking classes to accommodate vegetarian, vegan, and other dietary requirements.

The Maldives is home to manta rays, whale sharks, reef sharks, sea turtles, moray eels, and thousands of tropical fish species. Sightings depend on season and location, but our dive masters know exactly where to take you.

Absolutely! Whether it is a birthday, bachelorette, or reunion, we can arrange surprise setups, custom decorations, private dining, and more. Just let us know what you are celebrating.

Absolutely. Every quest is a starting point. Tell us your interests, fitness level, dietary needs, and bucket-list items, and we will adapt the itinerary to suit you. Want to add an extra dive day or swap a cooking class for a fishing trip? Consider it done.

Yes! While snorkeling and diving are highlights, many of our experiences are land-based or boat-based — cultural tours, island walks, cooking classes, sunset cruises, spa treatments, and more. We will tailor your quest so you are comfortable at all times.

Travel Information

Most nationalities receive a free 30-day visa on arrival in the Maldives. You will need a valid passport (with at least 6 months validity), a confirmed hotel booking, and a return ticket. We will provide full pre-travel guidance once you book.

The dry season (November to April) offers the calmest seas and clearest skies — ideal for diving and beach time. The wet season (May to October) brings occasional rain showers but also smaller crowds, lower prices, and excellent surfing conditions. The Maldives is beautiful year-round.

Depending on your tier and itinerary, transfers between islands are by speedboat, domestic flight, or seaplane. Essential quests typically use public ferries and speedboats. Elevated and Luxe tiers include private speedboat or seaplane transfers. We handle all logistics so you never have to worry.

Still have questions?

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