NBAM urges evidence-based investigation into Maldives Legend–Infinity X incident

The National Boating Association of Maldives (NBAM) has called for a thorough and impartial investigation into an incident involving diving teams associated with Maldives Legend Liveaboard and Infinity X, after footage circulated widely on social media and international platform.

In a statement released yesterday, the association urged police, the Ministry of Tourism and other relevant authorities to establish the facts and take appropriate action where misconduct or negligence is proven.

It stressed that responsibility must be determined through verified evidence, urging stakeholders to avoid premature conclusions, public accusations and blame.

NBAM said the actions of individuals should not be used to discredit the wider boating and diving industry or portray the Maldives as an unsafe diving destination.

Legitimate safety concerns must be addressed without allowing speculation and sweeping generalisations to damage local businesses and livelihoods, it said.

Beyond the incident, the association raised concerns about foreign-operated tourism vessels conducting business through locally registered companies without meaningful Maldivian participation.

It said it understood that Infinity X had moved from operating as a foreign vessel to a locally registered corporate structure, and called for scrutiny of its ownership, management and operational control.

These concerns were presented as matters requiring investigation, rather than established regulatory breaches.

The association also sought clarification over differences between Infinity X’s accommodation details in government records and booking-platform listings.

It urged authorities to verify the vessel’s approved accommodation and passenger capacities and enforce licensing and maritime-safety requirements consistently.

NBAM called for stronger oversight, fair competition and high professional standards, saying tourist safety, operator accountability and the protection of legitimate Maldivian businesses must go hand in hand.

It pledged to work with authorities and industry stakeholders to strengthen safety and address regulatory weaknesses.