
Customer review from Liveaboard.com
“What a great first experience! It was our first liveaboard, and we're spoiled for life! Everything was perfect from the crew to the food to the dives! Special shoutout to our dive guides Rambo and Leyon, who were extremely perceptive and attentive to our needs and went out of their way to make the dives comfortable for us. All in all, it was a great first experience! 10/10 to the kitchen staff that kept us so well fed - sardine pizza FTW! The boat was really clean, and all other amenities were top-notch too! Highly recommended!”
Recommended for: Dive Crew. Hospitality. Dives.
Customer Review By Tamanna D, from: India scored the Stella Maris Explorer 10 out of 10; Review courtesy of Liveaboard.com, for all 37 reviews and information click here: Stella Maris Explorer .
Is The Stella Maris Explorer Right For You?
Quick Facts about the Stella Maris Explorer
(or equivalent)
✓ The Stella Maris Explorer Is Best For:
- ✓Advanced & experienced divers (Minimum 30 logged dives required)
- ✓Social divers who enjoy meeting new people
- ✓Nitrox divers (free EAN32 included)
- ✓Travelers who prefer to rent equipment rather than bring their own
- ✓Divers seeking multi-day immersive experiences
✗ The Stella Maris Explorer Is Not Ideal For:
- ✗Complete beginners (Advanced Open Water Diver required)
- ✗Divers with limited experience
- ✗Budget-conscious travelers
- ✗Those who prefer day trips or shore-based diving
The Stella Maris Explorer Is Perfect If You Want...
- •Thresher shark encounters at Malapascua
- •Whale shark diving at Donsol
- •World-renowned macro photography
- •Vibrant coral reef diversity
- •Challenging dive sites for experienced divers
- •Complimentary nitrox for extended bottom times
The Stella Maris Explorer Liveaboard scores 8/10 on the boat features SDE Liveaboard Rating
When I reviewed the Stella Maris Explorer liveaboard it scored 8/10 on the SDE Liveaboard Rating for Boat Features, as it has 8 of the 10 key boat features (see below).
The Stella Maris Explorer liveaboard has audio and video entertainment in the lounge for you to relax and enjoy music, films and other entertainment between dives or in the evenings. In addition, it has free WIFI internet onboard, which means you can stay up to date with your emails and social media or upload your latest pictures and videos during your dive trip.
What’s more, it provides charging stations for phones, laptops, torches and underwater cameras so your batteries are always topped up, and your dive kit is always ready for the next dive. You’ll also find it maintains a near one to one crew to guest ratio, which supports quick service and strong safety cover.
Below is the full list of 10 key boat features for the Stella Maris Explorer liveaboard. This liveaboard includes 8 of the 10 key features.
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- ✓
- ✓
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- ✓
- ✓
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✕
Smart Voyager accreditation
- ✓
- ✓
- ✓
Boat FAQs for the Stella Maris Explorer Liveaboard
Does the Stella Maris Explorer Liveaboard have WiFi internet?
Does the Stella Maris Explorer Liveaboard have an air conditioned saloon?
Does the Stella Maris Explorer Liveaboard have an indoor saloon?
Does the Stella Maris Explorer Liveaboard have a sun deck or leisure deck?
Does the Stella Maris Explorer Liveaboard have an observation deck?
What onboard entertainment is available on the Stella Maris Explorer Liveaboard?
Is there a boutique or souvenir shop on the Stella Maris Explorer Liveaboard?
Is the Stella Maris Explorer Liveaboard family friendly?
Is the Stella Maris Explorer Liveaboard available for private charter?
What type of crew works on the Stella Maris Explorer Liveaboard?
What is the crew to guest ratio on the Stella Maris Explorer Liveaboard?
Does the Stella Maris Explorer Liveaboard have Smart Voyager accreditation?
Boat information:
- The Stella Maris Explorer liveaboard provides beach towels and deck towels onboard, which are included in the cost of your liveaboard trip.
- The Stella Maris Explorer liveaboard offers hotel and airport transfers, which are included in the cost of your liveaboard trip.
- The Stella Maris Explorer liveaboard has optional additional charges on top of the cost of the trip, these additional optional charges include gratuities.
- The Stella Maris Explorer liveaboard has additional required charges on top of the cost of the trip, these additional costs that you are required to pay include port and fuel fees.
- The Stella Maris Explorer liveaboard has dedicated family cabins designed for parents and children sharing together (see the cabin options below), even though it is not specifically tagged as a family friendly cruise in the features. Click Liveaboards With Family Cabins if you want to see other boats with family cabins, or Family Friendly Cruises if you prefer trips that are marketed more broadly for families.
- The Stella Maris Explorer liveaboard is available for private charter, making it a great option for scuba diving clubs, groups of friends, underwater photography teams, and families who want the whole boat to themselves. With up to 10 cabins available, your group can enjoy an exclusive itinerary, flexible dive schedule, and the privacy of a full-boat charter; click liveaboards available for private charter to compare this liveaboard with other boats that are available for private charter.
- The Stella Maris Explorer liveaboard is not specifically listed as a budget-friendly option, and is better suited to divers who are happy to pay more for upgraded comfort, premium facilities, and a higher overall experience while exploring Philippines’s dive sites; if your priority is keeping costs down, you can check current discounts using discounted liveaboards, or click Budget Friendly Liveaboards to compare this vessel with other liveaboards that are marketed as more budget-friendly.
Video Highlights for the Stella Maris Explorer
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The Stella Maris Explorer Liveaboard scores 5/10 on the cabin features SDE Liveaboard Rating
When I reviewed the Stella Maris Explorer Liveaboard it scored 5/10 on the SDE Liveaboard Rating for Cabin Features, as it has 5 of the 10 key cabin features (see below).
The Stella Maris Explorer Liveaboard includes air-conditioned cabins, which keeps your cabin cool and comfortable if you want to relax in your cabin between dives, and whilst you sleep at night. In addition, it includes additional cabin luxuries such as complimentary toiletries and daily housekeeping, which means you can pack lighter and enjoy a more relaxed trip.
What’s more, it has en-suite bathrooms, which adds hotel-style convenience to your diving trip.
Below is the full list of 10 key cabin features for the Stella Maris Explorer Liveaboard. This liveaboard includes 5 of the 10 key features.
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- ✓
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- ✓
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Cabin FAQs for the Stella Maris Explorer Liveaboard
Do cabins on the Stella Maris Explorer Liveaboard have en-suite bathrooms?
Is there air-conditioning in the cabins on the Stella Maris Explorer Liveaboard?
Are there family cabins on the Stella Maris Explorer Liveaboard?
Are there balcony or sea-view cabins on the Stella Maris Explorer Liveaboard?
Is there a hair dryer in the cabins on the Stella Maris Explorer Liveaboard?
Do cabins on the Stella Maris Explorer Liveaboard have a safe box?
Is there a TV in the cabins on the Stella Maris Explorer Liveaboard?
Are the cabins non-smoking on the Stella Maris Explorer Liveaboard?
Are towels and toiletries provided on the Stella Maris Explorer Liveaboard?
How many guests and cabins does the Stella Maris Explorer Liveaboard have?
Cabin information:
- The Stella Maris Explorer Liveaboard provides cabin towels, which are included in the cost of your liveaboard trip.
- The Stella Maris Explorer Liveaboard includes a laundry service, which is an extra charge on top of the cost of your liveaboard trip.
- The Stella Maris Explorer Liveaboard does not offer a pressing service. If you would like this service onboard, click Pressing service to find liveaboards that provide it.
- The Stella Maris Explorer Liveaboard provides complimentary toiletries, which are included in the cost of your liveaboard trip.
- The Stella Maris Explorer Liveaboard has dedicated family cabins designed for parents and children to share together; you can see these layouts in the cabin types section below. It is not specifically tagged as a family friendly cruise in the features, so if you’d like more boats with this type of cabin, look at Liveaboards With Family Cabins, or browse Family Friendly Cruises if you want trips that are marketed more broadly for families.
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The Stella Maris Explorer Liveaboard includes the following cabin types:
- 1 Double cabin with an ensuite bathroom
- 1 Triple cabin with an ensuite bathroom
- 8 Twin cabins with ensuite bathrooms
The Stella Maris Explorer Liveaboard scores 9/10 on the diving features SDE Liveaboard Rating
When I reviewed the Stella Maris Explorer Liveaboard it scored 9/10 on the SDE Liveaboard Rating for Diving Features, as it has 9 of 10 key diving features (see below).
The Stella Maris Explorer Liveaboard offers scuba diving courses onboard, so you can update or advance your diver certification whilst you are on your liveaboard trip. In addition, The Stella Maris Explorer Liveaboard offers a spacious dive deck for easy kitting up and also uses dive tenders to put you right on the best sites. What’s more, After a dive you can rinse off using warm outside showers, which keep you, your hair and your wetsuit fresh and clean from saltwater.
DIN adaptors are carried onboard, so whether you dive on a DIN or yoke regulator you will be supported on the Stella Maris Explorer Liveaboard. You’ll also find Rebreather support is listed for the Stella Maris Explorer Liveaboard, just confirm sorb, oxygen and bailout in advance. Also, Sidemount diving is supported on the Stella Maris Explorer Liveaboard, which is useful if you prefer to carry cylinders on your side.
Rinse hoses are provided to wash down gear after the dive. Plus, The Stella Maris Explorer Liveaboard was custom built for diving, so the layout, dive deck and facilities are all set up with scuba divers in mind. On top of that, Nitrox is included in the cost of your liveaboard trip, which helps you stay within no stop limits and be less tired on repetitive dives, but without any extra cost of nitrox fills. The Enriched Air Nitrox is normally EAN32 or 32% oxygen.
Below is the full list of 10 key diving features for the Stella Maris Explorer Liveaboard. This liveaboard includes 9 of the 10 key features.
Diving FAQs for the Stella Maris Explorer Liveaboard
Does the Stella Maris Explorer Liveaboard have nitrox onboard?
Is the Stella Maris Explorer Liveaboard custom built for diving?
What level of experience is required and what diver certification is required for the Stella Maris Explorer Liveaboard?
How many logged dives do you need for the Stella Maris Explorer Liveaboard?
Can I get certified on board the Stella Maris Explorer Liveaboard?
Does the Stella Maris Explorer Liveaboard have a camera area and camera rinse?
Are there facilities for photographers onboard the Stella Maris Explorer Liveaboard?
Do I need DIN or yoke on the Stella Maris Explorer Liveaboard, and are adaptors available?
How are water entries and exits handled on the Stella Maris Explorer Liveaboard? Are tenders used?
What rental gear is available on the Stella Maris Explorer Liveaboard?
Are scuba courses available onboard the Stella Maris Explorer Liveaboard?
Is a nitrox course available onboard the Stella Maris Explorer Liveaboard?
What itineraries does the Stella Maris Explorer Liveaboard run?
What sea creatures can you see on the Stella Maris Explorer Liveaboard
The Stella Maris Explorer Liveaboard does not currently list specific marine life for its dive sites, please check the itinerary notes.
Dive information:
- Diver certification level required: Advanced Open Water Diver (or equivalent)
- Number of logged dives required: Minimum 30 logged dives
- Itinerary options on the Stella Maris Explorer liveaboard are currently: 8 Days/7 Nights, 7 Days/6 Nights
- The diving package to include all the dives on the itinerary of your choice is included in the cost of the liveaboard trip.
- The Stella Maris Explorer liveaboard offers a private dive guide, which is an optional extra charge. Click Private dive guide to find other liveaboards that offer free, or as a paid extra, a private dive guide.
- The Stella Maris Explorer liveaboard offers scuba diving courses, and in particular a nitrox course, which are an optional extra charge. Click Scuba diving courses or Nitrox course to find other liveaboards that offer scuba courses onboard.
Tip: click any of the linked items above to find other dive liveaboards with the same option.
List of The Philippines dive sites visited by the Stella Maris Explorer Liveaboard
We do not yet have region and dive site data set up for The Philippines.
The Stella Maris Explorer Liveaboard scores 8/10 on the food features SDE Liveaboard Rating
When I reviewed the Stella Maris Explorer liveaboard it scored 8/10 on the SDE Liveaboard Rating For Food Features, as it has 8 of the 10 total key food and dining features (see below).
The Stella Maris Explorer Liveaboard offers options for specific dietary requirements and you can add these in special requests on step two of the booking form. But you are requested to limit these requests to religious beliefs or food allergies. It also includes vegetarian and vegan choices on the menu, so if you are a vegetarian or vegan you’ll definately not go hungry on your dive trip. In addition, it offers al fresco dining so you can enjoy sea views and ocean breezes with your meals whilst onboard.
What’s more, it has the benefit of fully inclusive meals, which includes breakfast, lunch and evening meals.
Below is the full list of 10 key food features for the Stella Maris Explorer liveaboard. This liveaboard includes 8 of the 10 key features.
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Beach BBQ
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Fine cuisine
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✓
Local food
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✓
Snacks all day (Free)
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✓
Western food
Dining FAQs for the Stella Maris Explorer Liveaboard
What meal plan does the Stella Maris Explorer Liveaboard offer?
Are dietary requirements accommodated on the Stella Maris Explorer Liveaboard?
Are vegetarian and vegan options available on the Stella Maris Explorer Liveaboard?
Is al fresco dining available on the Stella Maris Explorer Liveaboard?
Does the Stella Maris Explorer Liveaboard include a beach BBQ?
What dining style is used on the Stella Maris Explorer Liveaboard?
What cuisine is served on the Stella Maris Explorer Liveaboard?
Are snacks provided on the Stella Maris Explorer Liveaboard?
Dining and food information:
- Meals are served buffet style on the Stella Maris Explorer liveaboard.
The Stella Maris Explorer Liveaboard scores 6/10 on the drinks & refreshments SDE Liveaboard Rating
BelowWhen I reviewed the Stella Maris Explorer Liveaboard it scored 6/10 on the SDE Liveaboard Rating For Drinks and Refreshment Features, as it has 6 of the 10 total key drink and refreshment features (see below). In addition, this liveaboard includes drinking water and tea & coffee in the trip price.
Below is the full list of 10 key drinks & refreshments features for the Stella Maris Explorer Liveaboard. This liveaboard includes 6 of the 10 key features.
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✓
Alcoholic beverages (Paid extra)
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Bar
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✓
Beer available
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✓
Drinking water (Free)
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Fine wines selection (enhanced wine offering)
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✕
Free wine w/dinner
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✓
Soft drinks (Paid extra)
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✓
Tea & coffee (Free)
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Welcome cocktails
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✓
Wine available
Drinks & Refreshments FAQs for the Stella Maris Explorer Liveaboard
Which drinks are included on the Stella Maris Explorer Liveaboard?
Is there a bar onboard the Stella Maris Explorer Liveaboard?
Is alcohol available on the Stella Maris Explorer Liveaboard?
Are soft drinks included on the Stella Maris Explorer Liveaboard?
Are tea and coffee included on the Stella Maris Explorer Liveaboard?
Is drinking water included on the Stella Maris Explorer Liveaboard?
Is wine with dinner included on the Stella Maris Explorer Liveaboard?
Are welcome cocktails offered on the Stella Maris Explorer Liveaboard?
Can I bring my own alcohol on the Stella Maris Explorer Liveaboard?
How do I pay for drinks onboard the Stella Maris Explorer Liveaboard?
Included in the price of your liveaboard trip:
- Drinking water
- Tea & coffee
The Stella Maris Explorer Liveaboard scores 4/10 on the non-diver companion SDE Liveaboard Rating
When I reviewed the Stella Maris Explorer liveaboard it scored 4/10 on the SDE Liveaboard Rating for Non-Diver Companion Rating, as it has 4 of the 10 total key non-diver companion features (see below).
The Stella Maris Explorer liveaboard is suitable for non-divers, with activities such as snorkelling. These keep everyone involved between dives and make the trip enjoyable for partners or friends who prefer to stay above the surface. In addition, Snorkel gear is available on the Stella Maris Explorer liveaboard, perfect for relaxed reef time between dives and for non-divers to join in the water. What’s more, A jacuzzi or hot tub is available on the Stella Maris Explorer liveaboard, ideal for warming up after night dives or unwinding after a long day of diving.
there is a small library on the Stella Maris Explorer liveaboard with fish ID books and light reading and you will often find titles left by previous guests too.
Below is the full list of 10 key non-diver companion features for the Stella Maris Explorer liveaboard. This liveaboard includes 4 of the 10 key features.
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Glass bottom boat
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✓
Jacuzzi / hot tub
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✓
Library
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✕
Naturalist itineraries
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✓
Snorkel gear (Paid extra)
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Wellness facilities
Non-Dive Companion FAQs for the Stella Maris Explorer Liveaboard
Are kayaks available on the Stella Maris Explorer Liveaboard?
Are stand up paddleboards available on the Stella Maris Explorer Liveaboard?
Is snorkel gear provided on the Stella Maris Explorer Liveaboard?
Is there a jacuzzi or hot tub on the Stella Maris Explorer Liveaboard?
Is the Stella Maris Explorer Liveaboard suitable for non-divers?
Is there a naturalist guide or naturalist itinerary on the Stella Maris Explorer Liveaboard?
Is there a library on the Stella Maris Explorer Liveaboard?
Is yoga offered on the Stella Maris Explorer Liveaboard?
Are wellness services available on the Stella Maris Explorer Liveaboard?
Are jet skis available on the Stella Maris Explorer Liveaboard?
Is water skiing available on the Stella Maris Explorer Liveaboard?
Is wakeboarding available on the Stella Maris Explorer Liveaboard?
Is fishing offered on the Stella Maris Explorer Liveaboard?
Is there a glass bottom boat on the Stella Maris Explorer Liveaboard?
Are land excursions included on the Stella Maris Explorer Liveaboard?
SDE Liveaboard Rating – Underwater Photographer Features for the Stella Maris Explorer Liveaboard
When I reviewed the Stella Maris Explorer liveaboard it scored 2/5 on the SDE Underwater Photographer Rating, as it has 2 of the 5 key photographer facilities (see below).
The Stella Maris Explorer liveaboard provides dedicated charging stations for cameras, strobes, torches and laptops so your batteries are always topped up and ready for the next dive.
In addition, it has free WiFi internet onboard, which makes it easier to back up RAW files to the cloud and share images with friends and family while you are at sea.
Below is the full list of 5 key underwater photographer features for the Stella Maris Explorer liveaboard. This liveaboard includes 2 of the 5 key features.
Underwater photographer FAQs for the Stella Maris Explorer Liveaboard
Is there a dedicated camera room on the Stella Maris Explorer Liveaboard?
Does the Stella Maris Explorer Liveaboard have a dedicated camera table or workstation?
Are there charging stations for cameras and batteries on the Stella Maris Explorer Liveaboard?
Is there a separate rinse tank for underwater cameras on the Stella Maris Explorer Liveaboard?
Does the Stella Maris Explorer Liveaboard have WiFi for backing up and sharing photos?
Is the Stella Maris Explorer Liveaboard a good choice for serious underwater photographers?
SDE Liveaboard Rating – Technical Diving Features for the Stella Maris Explorer Liveaboard
When I reviewed the Stella Maris Explorer liveaboard it scored 2/3 on the SDE Tech Diving Rating, as it has 2 of the 3 key technical diving features (see below).
If you dive rebreather, the Stella Maris Explorer provides support, but it’s worth confirming in advance which rebreathers are supported and whether oxygen fills, sorb availability, and bailout requirements are in place, because this can vary by region and itinerary. In addition, If you dive sidemount, the Stella Maris Explorer supports it, but when planning your dives check cylinder options and the deck set-up, so your configuration is comfortable and properly supported for the dives planned.
Below is the full list of 3 key tech diving features for the Stella Maris Explorer liveaboard. This liveaboard includes 2 of the 3 key features.
Tech diving FAQs for the Stella Maris Explorer Liveaboard
Is sidemount diving supported on the Stella Maris Explorer Liveaboard?
Is technical diving supported on the Stella Maris Explorer Liveaboard?
Is rebreather diving supported on the Stella Maris Explorer Liveaboard?
All Philippines's Discounted Liveaboard Deals & Last Minute Discounts
Stella Maris Explorer Included in the Price
When you book the Stella Maris Explorer dive liveaboard, your cruise price includes key items for an amazing dive safari in Philippines. All your meals are included, so you can focus on diving.
These inclusions provide excellent value and a hassle-free cruise experience. Below is everything included in your Stella Maris Explorer liveaboard fare.
A review of the list of features 'included' in the price of the Stella Maris Explorer liveaboard. If you want to find all liveaboards with a specific feature included in the price, click a feature to open a new window with a collection of dive liveaboards that have this feature:
- Included Airport transfer
- Included Beach towels
- Included Cabin towels
- Included Complimentary toiletries
- Included Deck towels
- Included Diving package
- Included Drinking water
- Included Full-board meal plan (All meals)
- Included Hotel transfer
- Included Nitrox
- Included Snacks
- Included Tea & coffee
- Included VAT
- Included WiFi internet
Show features not included in the price
The other features that are not included on the Stella Maris Explorer liveaboard. If you want to find all liveaboards with this feature, click a feature to open a new window with a collection of dive liveaboards that have this feature:
- Not included Accommodation
- Not included Airport transfers
- Not included Snorkel equipment
- Not included Soft drinks
- Not included Beer
- Not included Wine with dinner
- Not included Dive guide
- Not included Diving equipment
Stella Maris Explorer Optional Paid Extras
Enhance your Stella Maris Explorer charter with these optional upgrades available for an additional cost. Nitrox helps extend your bottom time at the sites around Philippines.
These extras let you tailor the trip to your preferences. See the list below.
A review of the list of 'optional extras' charged on top of the price for the Stella Maris Explorer liveaboard. Click a feature to find liveaboards including this in the price:
- Included Alcoholic beverages
- Included Gratuities
- Included Laundry service
- Included Nitrox course
- Included Private dive guide
- Included Rental gear
- Included Scuba diving courses
- Included Snorkel Gear
- Included Snorkeling guide
- Included Soft drinks
Stella Maris Explorer Required Paid Extras
Please note some essential costs are not included in the base price of the Stella Maris Explorer dive cruise and must be paid additionally.
Budget for these mandatory costs when planning your liveaboard trip. See the list below.
A review of the list of 'required extras' not included in the price for the Stella Maris Explorer liveaboard. Click a feature to find liveaboards where this is covered in the price (when applicable):
- Included Park
- Included Port and Fuel Fees
Stella Maris Explorer Vessel Details
- Length: 33.0m (108.3ft)
- Beam: 6.5m (21.3ft)
- Max guests: 20
- Cabins: 10
- Bathrooms: 10
Stella Maris Explorer Boat Navigation and Safety
Navigation and safety aboard the Stella Maris Explorer Liveaboard are built around dependable positioning and rapid response.
A review of the full list of navigation and safety features for the Stella Maris Explorer Liveaboard. Stella Maris Explorer Liveaboard scores 94% on the SDE Liveaboard Rating for navigation & safety, which means it has 16 out of 17 navigation & safety features (see below for the features that are missing from this liveaboard).
- Included Bilge Pump Alarm
- Included Crew Trained in First Aid
- Included Depth Sounder
- Included E.P.I.R.B. Distress System
- Included Emergency Flares
- Included Emergency Rafts
- Included Engine room CCTV
- Included Fire Alarm & Fire Extinguishers
- Included First Aid Kits
- Included GPS
- Included Life Vests
- Included Oxygen
- Included Radar
- Included Radio VHF/DSC/SSB
- Included Satellite & Mobile Phones
- Included Search light
Show features not found
The stella maris explorer boat navigation and safety that are not found on the Stella Maris Explorer Liveaboard:
- Not included Fishfinder