Shaun Levings — The Maldives Specialist Since the Mid-90s
Three decades. Three boats. One mission: the best version of each experience.
Meet Shaun Levings
Shaun Levings has been in the tourism industry since 1985 and specialising in Maldives surf and charter tourism since the mid-1990s — making him one of the longest-serving operators in the region.
He didn't build Island Hop by sitting in an office. He built it by being on the water, season after season, developing an extensive knowledge of every atoll, every break, and every shift in the wind. Over three decades, he has hand-picked three exceptional vessels — Misraab, Handhu, and SERAI Ocean Dream — each serving a different market, each held to his personal standard.
Island Hop is not an agency. IslandHop are the private group charter experts. From boys or girls trips, to occasion vacations (special event),
When you enquire, you speak to Shaun. When you're on the boat, your trip has been curated by Shaun. That's the model. That's the difference.
Watch: Island Hop in action →
Why Island Hop?
Not a Resort. An Adventure.
Unlike a traditional resort stay where you're based on a single island, Island Hop liveaboard experiences give you the freedom to surf, snorkel, fish and island-hop across the Maldivian archipelago — exploring far more of this incredible destination.
Exceptional Service & Quality
Island Hop operates a small fleet of exceptionally maintained liveaboard vessels, purpose-built for comfortable, safe and seamless experiences. Each boat is held to the highest standards through rigorous maintenance and ongoing quality control.
Three Boats. Three Markets. One Specialist.
From Misraab's intimate small-group charters to Handhu's legendary surf trips to SERAI's ultra-luxury private estate — every experience is curated by Shaun to match what your group actually wants.
Bespoke Group Charters
Designed for groups of 4–12 guests, each journey is curated to suit your interests, pace and vision. Enjoy evening dinner gatherings, surf world-famous waves, snorkel vibrant reefs, fish for your dinner, and visit traditional local islands.
The Most Experienced Charter Team in the Maldives
Combined decades of expertise ensuring the highest levels of comfort, quality, safety and hospitality.
Shaun Levings
Curator of Maldives Experiences
Travel industry veteran since 1985. Pioneer of Maldives surf tourism. Personally curates every Island Hop trip.
Captain Nizar & Crew
Handhu Captain & Crew
24 years experience operating Maldives charters, plus 4 crew with combined 16 years experience. All crew involved in guest relations.
General Zuhair
Retired Army General and head of Coast Guard. Owner of Handhu. Together with his son Aai, they ensure Handhu runs like clockwork, maintained immaculately and ensure crew are happy
Local Surf Guides
Expert Guides & Photographers
Local freelance surf guides with vast experience. Work as a conduit between guests and crew to find the best waves. Photography packages available at reasonable prices.
Chef Gopal
Head Chef — Handhu
Renowned in the Maldives for innovative cuisine and his ability to source rare produce. Famous for his curries, Mashuni, and Sashimi.
Misraab Crew
Dedicated Crew for the small group experiences
We enlist expert local surfguides who will find the waves you want
"Hands down one of the best trips I've done! From the staff and crew to the waves and food. Met some amazing new friends and can't wait to hop back on the Handhu next year."
— Chris Grundy
Ready to Plan Your Maldives Experience?
With over three decades of expertise in Maldives tourism, Shaun sets a new benchmark for quality, tailored service and exceptional value. Talk to him directly.