Soneva Fushi Resort Maldives | Desert Island Hideaway | Scuba Travel

Soneva Fushi Resort Maldives | Desert Island Hideaway - Indian Ocean

  • The resort has 71 private water villas and island villas with their own stretch of pristine beach
  • Villas at the resort are designed to offer guests the utmost comfort and luxury during their stay
  • Dining venues feature gourmet menus using only quality organic ingredients.
  • Guests who desire a bit of adventure can enjoy castaway dining experiences around the island.
  • More than 30 spectacular dive sites rich with marine life near the resort and multi-lingual PADI instructors
  • Six Senses Spa & Wellness, Outdoor Cinema, Sunset cruises
  • Snorkelling, Scuba diving, and Surfing are all on offer
  • Chocolate parlour with over 60 flavours of ice cream

Soneva Fushi Resort Maldives | Desert Island Hideaway

In 1995, award-winning luxury resort Soneva Fushi set the standard for all desert island barefoot luxury hideaways in the Maldives. Located in the Baa Atoll UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, Soneva Fushi pairs Robinson Crusoe fantasy with intelligent luxury.

Fifty-seven private villas with their own stretch of beach are hidden among dense foliage within touching distance of a pristine coral reef. Intuitive service is provided by Mr./Ms. Friday butlers.
Highlights include the open-air Cinema Paradiso, counting Saturns rings in the high-tech Observatory, the home-made chocolate and ice cream rooms, five hundred wines to choose from, six different restaurants and countless destination dining options.

The villas at Soneva Fushi fall on the sunset or sunrise side of the island. While both sides have the Maldives' signature white-sand beaches and crystal clear azure waters, there are a few differences.
Sunset side: For snorkellers
Watch as the blue skies turn into the warm hues of the Maldivian sunset. While this side of the island offers sunset views, it is also possible to see our neighbouring local island, Eydhafushi, which is approximately 650 metres away. While the twinkling lights from this island look very pretty at night, guests who want more privacy may wish to consider staying on the sunrise side of the island. The sunset side of the island has three reef access points, which means guests do not have to walk far to access our house reef. The snorkelling is also better on this side, and dolphins are more likely to be spotted swimming past in the channel.

Sunrise side: For privacy
Catch the very first rays of the sun as it comes over the horizon of the Indian Ocean on this side of our island. Enjoy a virtually unimpeded view out to sea, as Maalhos, our closest neighbouring island, is just a speck on the horizon. This side is perfect for early risers who want to enjoy the tranquillity of our beautiful island.

The resorts down-to-earth personality is reflected in its nature-inspired architecture. If the experiences are magical, the philosophy is simple; no news, no shoes.

Crusoe with Pool

Double-storey villa with an upstairs terrace. Master bedroom with king bed and en suite toilet - Private pool. Downstairs living room with large daybed - Dining table - Private outside sitting area next to private pool with sun loungers - Open-air garden bathroom with bathtub, two separate showers and a double sink unit with - Overhead fan, air conditioning, extensive mini bar

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Crusoe Suite with Pool

Escape to your very own island adventure in this blissful two-storey villa suite. Just steps from the beach, Spacious, double-height living area and oversized daybeds . Surrounded by verdant tropical gardens, plunge into your own private swimming pool, or bathe under the stars in the outdoor bathtub. Take your pick from the well-stocked minibar, and relax as the evening falls from the comfort of your terrace swing.

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Soneva Fushi Family Villa suite with Pool

This villa is the perfect getaway for couples or small families with a separate childrens room, ideal for a teenager or two young children. Your villa suite is right on the beach, with its own veranda leading to the warm sands. Sink into the four-poster bed, while the open-plan living room brings the Revel in your luxurious open-air garden bathroom.

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1 bedroom Water Retreat with Slide

Perched directly over the clear waters of the Indian Ocean. With chic and understated decor inspired by the sea, the expansive villa features a light-filled, spacious living area, with nearby pantry and minibar. The large master bedroom has a king-sized bed, over which a retractable roof offers an incredible view of the night sky. There is also a dressing room, en-suite bathroom and adjacent childrens sleeping area

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The villas at the resort are designed to offer guests the utmost comfort and luxury during their stay. With that in mind, every villa is equipped with an array of amenities that includes: - Barefoot Butler - Direct beach access with daybeds and sunloungers - Television and Bose sound system with extensive movie & music playlists - Open-air bathrooms with bathtub and shower - Bicycles or tricycles for every guest - Overhead fans, air conditioning and a personal safe - WiFi with an on/off switch

Covid Information for Soneva Fushi

The Maldives no longer has any covid protocols or requirements in place

Country Covid Travel Information

View entry requirements here on UK FCDO

A PCR test is no longer required to enter Maldives.

Entry requirements for Maldives are the same for all travellers, regardless of COVID-19 vaccination status.

All travellers must submit a self-declarative health declaration within 96 hours prior to travel online portal of Maldives Immigration, "Imuga", imuga.immigration.gov.mv.

From 18th March, when you travel to England from abroad you:
do not need to take any COVID-19 tests before you travel or after you arrive
do not need to fill in a UK passenger locator form
do not need to quarantine when you arrive
This applies whether you are vaccinated or not.

It includes people who are transiting through England.
Updated 8 JUL 2022

Frequently Asked Questions

Location

The Maldives is in the Indian Ocean, a 10-14hr flight from the UK, around 370 miles southwest of Sri Lanka. It is made up of 1200 islands, stretching over 500 miles from north to south. The main arrival airport for all flights to the Maldives is Male's airport island (MLE). The Maldives is famous for its great snorkelling, manta cleaning stations, whalesharks, shark dives and fast drift dives through channels. The water remains a constant 27-28 C year round.

Covid Travel Information

View entry requirements here on UK FCDO

A PCR test is no longer required to enter Maldives.

Entry requirements for Maldives are the same for all travellers, regardless of COVID-19 vaccination status.

All travellers must submit a self-declarative health declaration within 96 hours prior to travel online portal of Maldives Immigration, "Imuga", imuga.immigration.gov.mv.

From 18th March, when you travel to England from abroad you:
do not need to take any COVID-19 tests before you travel or after you arrive
do not need to fill in a UK passenger locator form
do not need to quarantine when you arrive
This applies whether you are vaccinated or not.

It includes people who are transiting through England.
Updated 8 JUL 2022

Weather and Climate

Whilst there are 2 monsoon seasons (Nov-Apr & May-Oct), the diving remains excellent year round. Diving operators will changes their dive sites in each season to find the best hot spots for the big fish! Traditionally, our summer months tend to be windier with a higher chance of rain, whilst the winter months are flatter. However, the seasons are much less predictable in reality and its a fabulous place to dive whatever time of year!

Travel

Flight options

Our holidays to the Maldives can be quoted with most major airlines. If you would like to depart from a regional UK airport (eg. Glasgow/Edinburgh, Manchester, Birmingham or Gatwick) or have a specific airline you prefer to fly with, simply let us know in your booking request. Times and any applicable supplements will be confirmed by your travel consultant before you finalise your holiday. We are unfortunately not able to redeem airmiles on your behalf. If you make your own flight arrangements to Male, please check the transfer arrangements before confirming your flights. Please do not finalise any flight arrangements yourself before your liveaboard space is confirmed as being held.

Stopovers

As most flights are not direct, it is simple to add a stop over en route - simply ask your travel consultant for a quote. Sri Lanka is our most popular, up coming destination - with beautiful beaches, it's a great alternative to staying in the Maldives resorts. If you are feeling a bit more adventurous, why not head into the jungle for look for elephants and leopards. Or if you are a culture vulture, we highly recommend a Kandy city tour. The choice is yours! As we are able to book most major airlines to the Maldives, you can also add a stop to break up your flight. Popular locations include Dubai, Doha and Abu Dhabi.

Arrange before you go

Regular Entry Requirements

UK passport holders are able to obtain a free 30 day visa on arrival. Do ensure your passport has 6 months validity from your return date to prevent any issues with immigration. It is your responsibility to ensure your passport is valid and you fulfil entry requirements. Regulations can change: Please review current FCO advice click here . If transiting via Sri Lanka you must have a visa prior to travel click here to review

Insurance

Scuba Travel requires all of our customers to have diving insurance. Please make sure that you have appropriate cover for your diving activities. We also strongly recommend you have travel insurance. It's worth taking out travel insurance once you have paid your deposit to ensure you are covered for unforeseen events and cancellation.

Immunisations

Your covid proof of vaccination must match your passport name and flight ticket name. Please speak to your local GP or check out the latest NHS advice on updating your NHS details or for other travel immunisations: click here to go to the NHS

Preparing to fly

Seating

You will be able to manage your booking online once you have been ticketed (after you have paid your holiday balance). Most airlines will now enable you to select your seating at this point. There may be a small charge for prebookable seating before online check in opens. Please speak to the airline for more information about charges.

Check in

As you are flying with a scheduled airline, you will be able to check in online with your airline. Please visit their website for more information about when online check in opens.

Lounge

An airport lounge is a great way to start your holiday or to while away flight connections in comfort. Scuba Travel works with Lounge Pass to offer a huge range of affordable airport lounges around the world. click here for more info on Lounge Pass

Parking

Prebook your airport parking to save money! If you have a long way to travel, why not also look at booking an airport hotel. These aren't as expensive as you might think. click here for holiday extras

What happens when I arrive?

On arrival in the Maldives, you will need to clear immigration and collect your baggage. You will then be met outside of arrivals by a representative from your liveaboard or resort. They will be holding a board with either your destination or your name on it. If you have any issues at all locating your rep, please turn left from arrivals and go to the information desk at Male airport. We have an emergency contact, manned by a member of the team here in the UK. Please call 0044 7747 488 002. We will be able to help your rep locate you in the airport.

Transfers

If your holiday begins in Male you will be met and taken to your boat. The transfer takes around 20mins. Many of our Maldives holidays will include either a domestic flight or seaplane transfer. It takes approx 45mins -1 hour to clear immigration and collect your baggage at Male airport. We endeavour to keep the transit between flights as short as possible and your transfer will normally take place within 3 hours of your international arrival, but please be aware, you may have to wait at the airport between flights. The domestic terminal is right next door to arrivals. This has AC, bathrooms and a small cafe. You will usually be met by a rep, who will assist you in moving between the terminals. The baggage allowance on domestic flights is typically 20kgs hold and 5kgs hand baggage. Excess baggage is charged locally $2-$5/kg. The seaplane check in desk is to your right on exiting the arrivals hall. You will check your bag in here and then be transferred to the seaplane terminal by bus. This has AC, bathrooms, a small cafe and shop. The seaplanes run regularly throughout the day and due to the way the scheduling is organised, the exact time of your seaplane cannot be confirmed prior to arrival in Male. Seaplanes do not run in the dark - the fist seaplane is around 06:00 Male time and ends around 16:00 Male time. The baggage allowance on seaplane flights is typically 20kgs hold and 5kgs hand baggage. Excess baggage is charged locally $2-$5/kg.

Departures

You will be taken back to Male airport in time for your international flight. Domestic flights and seaplanes will arrive in time for you to make your connections. Typically you will arrive at the airport 1 1/2- 2 hours before your flight time. There is currently no departure tax when leaving the Maldives.

Info

Tipping

We are not able to prebook and prepay for any diving or snorkelling trips although these can easily be arranged in resort at the dive centre.

Currency

USD cash is the preferred currency. Credit & debit cards accepted although a surcharge may apply. A 12% local GST applies to all purchases made in the Maldives and will be added to bills locally.

Phone coverage

Typically the Maldives has good mobile phone coverage throughout, although it is not 100 percent - please check with your phone contract provider for data roaming, charges and 3G availability.

Plugs and electricity

Either UK 3 pin or European 2 pin plugs. Please do not leave batteries charging unattended in your rooms.

Extras

Hire equipment

Kit hire can be arranged in resort

Extras

Best Dives Maldives teach a wide range of beginners courses, as well as continuing education for certified divers

Souvenirs

You can purchase souvenirs from the shops at both Lilly Beach Resort Maldives and Pro divers

Nitrox/Gas

Nitrox is available for certified divers

Payments

Deposits and Balances

A typical deposit for a holiday to Soneva Fushi is around 25% of your package price, although this will depend on your exact flight option and travel class. Larger deposits may be required for some flight options (eg premium economy/business class).

Ways to pay

We accept mastercard and visa debit or credit cards. If you would like a pay by link to complete check out via email please let us know and it can be set up for you. We do not take AMEX. All non sterling card payments and UK business debit cards will be subject to the 3% surcharge. Alternatively, you are welcome to pay via bank transfer. Overseas bank transfers must add £8 to the sterling total to cover international handling fees. We are not able to accept PayPal transactions or personal cheques.

Group Payments

If you have booked as part of a group, you can still call and pay directly without needing to go via your group leader. Please have your trip reference number to hand to help us locate your holiday as quickly as possible. You will receive a transaction receipt - your group leader will forward your ATOL certificate and booking confirmation

Discounts

Repeat Guests

Soneva Fushi Resort Maldives | Dive The Maldives

Included

A standard resort package includes 2 people sharing 7 nights in a one bedroom crusoe villa on B&B basis
All meal plans include breakfast at Mihiree Mithaa restaurant
Seaplane transfers from Male and international flights are required and can be added to your booking - ask for a quote today! You may be charged for excess baggage on the seaplane if you are above the weight limit for your hold baggage.
The mandatory green tax has been included and prepaid in your holiday. Your package is inclusive of Service Charge (10%), Carbon Tax (2%), Goods & Services Tax (12% GST)

Excluded

Excluded are room service, additional meals or drinks outside of your meal plan - some drinks/restaurants are excluded from the all inclusive programme. S

Additional local services such as telephone calls, laundry, tennis balls, smoking services, private lessons, special events and excursions are paid for locally.

We are not able to prebook and prepay for any diving or snorkelling trips although these can easily be arranged in resort at the dive centre.

Local taxes on purchases apply in the Maldives (12% GST). Tipping is entirely at your discretion. We do not make recommendations as to how much to tip. Should you wish to leave a tip for the staff and crew, it should reflect the level of service you have enjoyed.


With more than 30 spectacular dive sites rich with marine life near the resort and multi-lingual PADI instructors, Soneva Fushi is the perfect destination to explore the awe-inspiring wonders of the ocean.

At Soneva Fushi, each experience is in tune with natures rhythm. Dining venues feature gourmet menus using only quality organic ingredients. Guests who desire a bit of adventure can enjoy castaway dining experiences around the island.

Out of the Blue
A two-storey overwater structure that houses four unique dining outlets. Feast on the creations of top chefs from around the world in intimate settings. From delicious grilled meats and seafood, Teppanyaki, sushi and secret menus conjured by Michelin-starred chefs. All-day dining: Open daily from 11am onwards

Fresh in the Garden
Surrounded by tropical banana trees, this restaurant without walls rises above our herb and vegetable garden, with sublime panoramas stretching as far as the eye can see. Dinner: 18:30 to 22:30

Once Upon A Table
A culinary theatre showcasing a no menu concept only for visiting chefs. 8 seats only.

Shades of Green
Plant-based Maldivian and Southeast Asian cuisine is prepared using Nordic cooking techniques. Danish Chef Carsten Kyster celebrates the garden with five-course menus featuring colours.

So Hands On
Our sushi counter sees someone of the world's best sushi masters behind its sake-polished Japanese pine, known as 'hinoki', counter top. The intimate five-seater sushi counter lets you experience the chef's dextrous skills up close.

Down to Earth
Inspired by the primal bonding ritual of sharing food, this restaurant recreates intimacy with dishes designed for sharing, crafted around nine different cooking methods. Dinner: 18:30 - 22:30 every night except Tuesdays and Saturdays

Mihiree Mithaa
Translating to here it is, this is the culinary heart of the island, featuring an endless spread of fresh fruits, live cooking stations, freshly caught and grilled-to-order fish and a collection of Asian dishes and Maldivian specialties. The wood-fired oven offers freshly baked pizzas. Guests can design their own pizza by choosing from the choice of toppings. Breakfast: 07:30 - 10:30 Dinner: Open Tuesdays and Saturdays, 18:30 - 22:30

Bar(a)bara
A relaxed over-water bar with catamaran nets and daybeds set at the edge of the jetty, it is the perfect venue for spotting dolphins while enjoying refreshing beverages and light bites during the day or indulging in organic pre-dinner cocktails.

Out Of The Blue

A two-storey overwater structure that houses four unique dining outlets. Feast on the creations of top chefs from around the world in intimate settings. From delicious grilled meats and seafood, Teppanyaki, sushi and secret menus conjured by Michelin-starred chefs.
All-day dining: Open daily from 11am onwards

Fresh in the Garden

Surrounded by tropical banana trees, this restaurant without walls rises above our herb and vegetable garden, with sublime panoramas stretching as far as the eye can see.
Dinner: 18:30 to 22:30 every night

So Hands on

Our sushi counter sees someone of the world's best sushi masters behind its sake-polished Japanese pine, known as 'hinoki', counter top. The intimate five-seater sushi counter lets you experience the chef's dextrous skills up close.