Starting a Surf-Dive Charter Business in the Maldives
Look, I'm no expert in this field but I'd hazard a guess that existing surf charter operators probably woulnd't be too keen to publicly discuss business operations and costs with a potential new competitor.
In my humble opinion there are too many boats operating in the Maldives already. Not to mention the Mentawais as well. There is enough problems with pollution and crowds there already without adding more to the problem.
Yeah, would have to agree with the above. There'd be 25+ surf charter boats in the Maldives. Some have been there for quite a while and I doubt they'd be welcoming to any new start ups. Not to mention the issues with exclusivity, although I think the Thamburudhoo saga is now over.
I completely understand the reservations above. I have witnessed firsthand the development of Bocas Del Toro Island in Panama, with the turf wars, crowds and pollution that ensued. But my experience taught me that not wanting to share or welcome new businesses does not in any way prevent development (and new developers). However, small businesses, developers and operators who do share, help and welcome each other, create a community which is able to improve issues like pollution, crowds and turf wars and also other issues relating to local infrastructure, workforce and supplies, as these concerns are mutually shared and can only be tackled through cooperation. I know this may sound a little new agey but this is purely pragmatic. My humble opinion on the matter is that an open, cooperating community of business owners and operators who are passionate about creating a successful touristic destination is much better for the development of the destination than scattered lone wolves. That's why I always help out when I can. When I give a competitor a few gallons of gasoline for his panga, I am (1) happy to help a person in need, but also (2) am thinking of the big picture, that is of tourists going back home with bad/good experiences from the destination.
Anyway, if anyone feels the same way, they are more than welcome to contact me and maybe share whatever they feel comfortable sharing.
Cheers,
Yahoo
Hello Yahoo,
We would like to offer you a partnership or act as agents. If you are interested.
Look forward to hear from you.
cheers
Sulthana
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any chance of hooking me up, I like brunettes
Hello Yahoo,
We are a travel agency based in Maldives and dedicated to cruise holidays in Maldives. We have been successfully operating for 6 years and we have a large choice of vessels starting from the traditional wooden boat to the luxury yacht. We arrange surfing trips for groups mainly during low season ( mainly for Europeans/Australians and South Africans clients ). We would be very happy to answer your questions and help you to finalize your project.
Thank you
Best regards
Morgane
Righto, that's about enough spam on this topic. She's closed.
Hi all,
I am looking into possibly starting a surf-dive charter boat in the Maldives.
Our group has experience in operating similar businesses in Central-America and the Seychelles.
I was wondering if anyone here has any knowledge in operating such a business specifically in the Maldives and would be kind enough to share their wisdom :)
Plan is comprised of a 24 meter motor yacht.
4 crew members.
10 guest max capacity.
I am interested to learn of:
Any limitations the local government may impose that I have to take into account.
A reliable contact within the Maldives (agent/lawyer) who knows this field.
Registering the vessel in the Maldives Vs. operating under a foreign flag.
The annual Budget of running such a business (expenses and occupancy).
Any other issue that may be relevant.
Cheers,
Yahoo