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Jalboot: Making sea travel in Maldives an enjoyable experience
Travelling by sea is a great experience as it is, and the Maldives makes it all the better. You get to enjoy the cool sea breeze and take in the breath-taking scenery of the archipelago; islets filled with lush green vegetation and surrounded by white sandy beach seemingly floating before your eyes!
But this joyful experience can sometimes turn into a daunting ordeal. All of a sudden, you maybe faced with rogue waves, mechanical problems or bad weather, and you will be left with sea sickness and headache amongst other irritating conditions. It could get even worse depending on the vessel you are on.
Jalboot Holdings, which is owned by a single shareholder from the royal family of Abu Dhabi, is trying to change that and ensure that every ride you take through Maldivian waters is as enjoyable as it can possibly be. After setting up shop in the Maldives in 2018, Jalboot has quickly gained a foothold in the local sea transport industry, with its services already used by leading resorts in the Maldives, including Jumeirah Vittaveli and several others in the pipeline.
“There is no reason why travelling by sea cannot be as comfortable as travelling by air. In fact, with no waiting time and less security checks, air-conditioned sea transport can be a much more enjoyable experience if done right,” said Shameem Mohamed Ismail, Senior Operations Manager at Jalboot Maldives.
Mohamed Roestali, CEO of the Jalboot Group, also added: “At Jalboot, we have a track record of providing exceptional services in the marine industry worldwide. We also have a firm platform in the Maldives to support our operation and to expand in this fast growing and exciting market. Our aim is to elevate water transport sector to a whole new level by offering comfortable and safe boat transfers within the Maldives.”
Jalboot’s fleet in the Maldives consists of a new generation of Maldives-centric ferries to be used at Crossroads and other luxury destinations throughout the Maldives. Supported by cutting edge technology and world-class accreditations, these new air-conditioned ferries are especially designed for Maldivian waters, with its hull adapted to reduce sudden jolts and jerks even in choppy waters. The catamaran-style dual hulled, water-jet and diesel engine powered crafts are 17 metres long, with a maximum capacity of 60 passengers and equipped with the latest safety measures, navigation and communication technology. Options for lounge-style VIP rooms also exist with exclusive seating for 20-24 guests.
One of the novel features of the new ferries is their ability to come to a full stop in one and a half boat lengths whilst travelling at full speed. The vessels are International Association of Class Societies (IACS) classified and built in compliance with the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) standards, comprising many standard safety features such as life jackets for every passenger, a dedicated life raft on board and emergency exits. The vessels are also equipped with state-of-the-art fire detectors and mitigation equipment, digital distress signals, emergency DSC transmitters and EPIRB floating emergency beacons.
As a leading integrated provider of vessel design, construction and operation of sightseeing and passenger transfer ferry services based in Abu Dhabi, Jalboot prides itself in providing premium-level customer service in the marine transport service industry, along with industry-leading private and commercial boat charters. Jalboot ensures that all its staff members are qualified to the highest standards. Jalboot maintains HSEQ qualifications and accreditations with regular training and drills in every country the company operates, and the company’s ferry operation teams are trained to respond to all types of emergency situations at sea.
In order to ensure sustainable and environmental-friendly operations, Jalboot complies with the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships (MARPOL) standards to maintain a zero-waste policy and ensures that waste is kept onboard each vessel until it can be safely disposed. Jalboot also employs the latest, cutting-edge, low emission diesel engine technology. Its ferries are also designed with water jet propulsion instead of conventional propellers to reduce damage to precious marine lives and corals, making them especially suitable for the geography of the Maldives.
With its vast experience in managing the world-renowned Yas Marina in Abu Dhabi, Jalboot is also gearing up to manage the first ever international yacht marina in the Maldives. Drawing from its operational excellence in countries such the UAE, China, Germany and Thailand, Jalboot will manage the luxury marina at the Crossroads integrated tourism destination being developed by Thailand’s premier property development company Singha Estate.
Crossroads spans nine islands in the Emboodhoo Lagoon and will have a plethora of dining, retail, entertainment, recreational and leisure-lifestyle offerings, including a 50-berth marina. In addition to SAii Lagoon Maldives, the first Curio Collection by Hilton resort in the Maldives which will be set exclusively on one of the islands within the integrated destination, Crossroads will also be home to Hard Rock Hotel Maldives and Hard Rock Cafe Maldives — the first development in the Maldives by world-class entertainment and lifestyle brand Hard Rock International.
With its close proximity of a 15-minute boat ride from the Maldives main Velana International Airport and capital Male, Crossroads aims to captivate leisure travellers and family markets with a development spanning nine islands, boasting 1,300 rooms and a retail space of over 11,000 square metres.
The project’s leisure and entertainment hub, Marina @ Crossroads will house a variety of international restaurants, retail outlets, a world-class wellness spa, a Maldives Discovery Centre with coral preservation and coral propagation activities, a diving centre, a multi-purpose hall, a kids club, and a cultural centre. World-renowned partners at the Township include Hard Rock Café Maldives, Café del Mar, and two of Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants, Ministry of Crab and Nihonbashi.
As part of a 10-year exclusive deal with Singha Estate, Jalboot will be providing a full spectrum water transport solution for Crossroads. Alongside managing Crossroads’ luxurious berth yacht marina, Jalboot will be providing a comprehensive range of luxury cruise services at the integrated destination. Totalling six vessels initially, Jalboot’s services will include round-trip ferry transportation services to and from Velana International Airport and other nearby islands, a yacht chartering service, as well as cutting edge electric Dhoni boats providing inter-lagoon services at Crossroads.
The first year of Crossroads will see the operation of four of these ferries by Jalboot, with two vessels servicing guests arriving from Velana International Airport and two vessels servicing Maldivians and residents from the capital Male. From the collaboration with Singha Estate, Jalboot plans to enhance employment opportunities amongst Maldivian communities by sharing its specialised know-how with a local team at Croassroads via a specially formed start-up group.
“Our operation will provide career opportunities for local communities by allowing Maldivians to benefit economically. When it comes to career opportunities, our focus is to offer job opportunities to locals,” said Fathmah Thaufeeq, HR Manager at Jalboot Maldives.
Despite being relatively new to the Maldives, Jalboot has already been successful in transforming the water transport sector in the Maldives. Its modern boats and integrated water transport solutions are becoming increasingly popular in an industry that had until now remained stagnant for far too long. But this is just the beginning; as more and more leading resorts in the Maldives adopt Jalboot’s technology, gone will be the days of unpleasant rides through Maldivian waters!
Centara Hotels & Resorts, Thailand’s leading hotel operator, is preparing for the launch of Centara Grand Lagoon Maldives, a serene island retreat set to open on April 1st. To commemorate the opening, the resort is offering an exclusive introductory promotion, allowing guests to enjoy a luxurious escape with a range of benefits. The special offer includes Stay 4, Pay 3 and Stay 7, Pay 5 packages, along with exceptional upgrades available for a limited time.
Centara Grand Lagoon Maldives is the final addition to Centara’s collection of four distinctive properties in the Maldives, each tailored to different traveller preferences. The resort features 142 elegantly designed beachfront and overwater accommodations that harmonise with the surrounding natural beauty. This private island sanctuary seamlessly merges Thai-inspired hospitality with Maldivian charm, offering world-class dining across multiple restaurants and bars, as well as revitalising wellness experiences at the Spa Cenvaree Retreat.
The opening of this property also marks the completion of The Atollia by Centara Hotels & Resorts, a visionary project that aims to redefine experiential travel in the Maldives. As part of this exclusive multi-island destination, Centara Grand Lagoon Maldives offers refined tranquility combined with immersive experiences. Guests staying at the resort also have access to the exciting water attractions and vibrant amenities of the neighbouring Centara Mirage Lagoon Maldives.
Andrew Jansson, Cluster General Manager of Centara Grand Lagoon Maldives & Centara Mirage Lagoon Maldives, expressed enthusiasm about the upcoming opening, stating, “From our picturesque beachfront and overwater villas to our exquisite dining and holistic wellness journeys, our team has worked tirelessly to ensure every aspect of this magnificent property exceeds expectations. We look forward to offering travellers a truly distinctive experience that captures the essence of both Centara’s signature warm hospitality and the beauty of this Maldivian paradise.”
To celebrate the grand opening, Centara Hotels & Resorts is inviting guests to take advantage of the Grand Island Indulgence: Exclusive Introductory Offer. Bookings made before June 30th, 2025, for stays between April 1st and October 15th, 2025, will qualify for the Stay 4, Pay 3 or Stay 7, Pay 5 packages. The offer also includes meal plan upgrades, complimentary sparkling wine and couples’ massages, exclusive access to The Club, a choice of an ocean excursion, and additional perks for CentaraThe1 members.
Beyond the well-known winter appeal of the Maldives lies an underrated gem—summer. From May to October, the islands transform into a sanctuary of intimate escapes, breathtaking marine encounters, and uninterrupted tranquillity, offering a side of the Maldives that remains one of travel’s best-kept secrets. This year, Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts invites travellers to rediscover summer in the Maldives through curated experiences across its four island resorts, each tailored to romance, diving, adventure, and relaxation.
Cinnamon Hakuraa Huraa Maldives provides an ideal setting for couples seeking a romantic summer retreat. Overwater bungalows offer a tranquil atmosphere, where the gentle lapping of waves sets a soothing rhythm for the days ahead. For those desiring an exclusive adults-only escape, Platinum Island offers elevated privacy and sophistication, creating the perfect environment for seclusion. As the sun sets, private sandbank dinners and candlelit beachside feasts transform ordinary moments into unforgettable memories.
For diving enthusiasts, Ellaidhoo Maldives by Cinnamon offers an unparalleled underwater experience. Home to one of the Maldives’ most vibrant house reefs and in close proximity to iconic dive sites, Ellaidhoo provides exceptional opportunities for marine exploration. Divers can witness the Maldives’ marine life in its full splendour, and encounters with Tripod, the island’s beloved three-finned turtle, add a unique charm to every dive. Whether exploring the legendary house reef or venturing to sites such as Fish Head and Maaya Thila, every descent promises an awe-inspiring glimpse into the ocean’s wonders.
Cinnamon Dhonveli Maldives serves as the ultimate summer playground for thrill-seekers, where the ocean’s energy meets endless opportunities for adventure. Home to the world-renowned surf break, Pasta Point, the island attracts seasoned surfers eager to ride its perfectly peeling waves. Beyond surfing, the resort offers an array of exhilarating water sports, including jet skiing, wakeboarding, paddleboarding, and windsurfing, ensuring every adrenaline-seeker finds an activity suited to their passion. Whether carving through the waves or speeding across crystal-clear waters, Cinnamon Dhonveli Maldives encapsulates the thrill of ocean adventure.
Cinnamon Velifushi Maldives redefines summer living, blending stylish beachfront retreats with effortless indulgence. Days unfold at a leisurely pace, with sun-drenched afternoons by the infinity pool, gourmet dining that highlights the flavours of the sea, revitalising spa treatments, and sunrise yoga sessions designed to awaken the senses. Whether savouring exquisitely crafted dishes, indulging in personalised wellness experiences, or simply embracing the island’s serenity, Velifushi offers an escape where time slows down, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the art of island living.
Far from the winter crowds, summer in the Maldives reveals a season of untold beauty, where the rhythm of the waves sets the pace for unforgettable experiences. Whether diving into vibrant marine ecosystems, embracing barefoot luxury, or savoring moments of pure tranquillity, Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts Maldives welcomes travellers to uncover one of the islands’ best-kept secrets
Danish chef Wassim Hallal will be hosting an exclusive residency at Soneva Fushi’s Flying Sauces from March 17 to May 12, 2025, bringing his two-Michelin-starred restaurant, Frederikshøj, to the world’s first fine dining zipline experience. As spring unfolds in the Maldives, guests will have the opportunity to soar along a 200-meter zipline route to reach an elevated dining platform, where breathtaking views, intuitive service, and Hallal’s masterful culinary creations await.
A pioneer of modern Nordic cuisine, Hallal’s passion for gastronomy has driven him to redefine fine dining in Denmark. His culinary journey began at a young age, leading him to refine his craft in some of Europe’s most prestigious kitchens. Under his leadership, Frederikshøj in Aarhus has earned two Michelin stars, recognized for its innovative approach, precision, and use of the finest seasonal ingredients.
During his highly anticipated spring residency at Soneva Fushi, Hallal will bring the essence of Frederikshøj to the Maldives, offering an unforgettable tasting experience that merges contemporary Nordic techniques with the island’s exceptional organic produce. His culinary philosophy pays tribute to the natural world, shaped by his environment and the evolving landscape of modern gastronomy. His style masterfully balances the refinement of French haute cuisine with the boundary-pushing creativity of New Nordic cooking, infused with global influences that drive his innovation.
At Frederikshøj, his commitment to excellence is evident in the meticulous selection of the finest local ingredients. A true culinary craftsman, he embraces experimentation, constantly redefining flavour, texture, and technique to create dishes that leave a lasting impression. Each plate serves as a canvas—an expression of creativity, refinement, and evolution—always seeking to push the boundaries of what is possible.
While in the Maldives, Hallal and his team will seamlessly blend Frederikshøj’s distinctive culinary ethos with Soneva Fushi’s organic seasonal produce, crafting a two-Michelin-starred dining experience designed to surprise, delight, and linger in the memories of guests long after the final course.
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