News
What’s new at Vakkaru: Unveiling six reasons to celebrate six-year milestone
As Vakkaru Maldives marks its 6th anniversary this December, the resort commemorates a journey filled with extraordinary achievements and memorable experiences. Since opening its doors on 17 December 2017, it has emerged as a world-renowned leading private island sanctuary, offering unparalleled luxury levels of service, and creating cherished memories for a growing community of loyal guests.
Six reasons to return or to visit Vakkaru for the first time, with exciting developments providing enhanced experiences for our guests, especially catering to the growing demands of the family market.
Luxury Redefined with New Three- & Four-Bedroom Beach Pool Residence
This accommodation can be adapted to guests’ preferences, making it an ideal choice for families or groups seeking an elevated beach getaway. The main residence has a large 42-sqm swimming pool a spacious terrace with an outdoor gazebo overlooking the Indian Ocean. The third and fourth bedrooms have their own Beach Villa with Plunge Pool connected to the main residence, with its own 12-sqm whirlpool.
Enhanced Two Bedroom Beach Residences and Villas
The two-bedroom Residences now boast a newly built indoor living lounge for additional relaxation space. At the same time, the Beach Pool Villas have been upgraded with larger swimming pools for an even more luxurious swim experience.
Multiple Wins at World Travel Awards 2023
Endorsing Vakkaru positioning as a leading luxury resort, for the fourth consecutive year, Vakkaru has been recognized with multiple awards at the prestigious World Travel Awards 2023. These include:
- World’s Leading Luxury Honeymoon Resort 2023
- Indian Ocean’s Leading Hotel Suite 2023
- Indian Ocean’s Leading Resort 2023
- Maldives’ Leading Hotel Suite 2023
This continuous recognition is a testament to our team’s unwavering dedication and commitment towards the unique experiences offered to our guests.
On Resort Photo Studio
The newly constructed photo studio by Yash Lightroom offers guests unique opportunities to plan personalised, professional photoshoots, for those cherished memories.
New Marine Experiences
The resort has introduced an array of new marine experiences led by our new marine biologist, Lydia Glinski. The programmes are designed for young explorers and adults including “Be A Marine Biologist for a Day,” and dedicated PADI specialty diving courses and a Coral Adoption programme.
Key Appointments in Sales & Marketing Team
Vakkaru Maldives announced two key appointments to its Sales & Marketing team, Cluster Director of Sales & Marketing, Sian Thomas, with over two decades of experience and having previously served as the Director of Sales & Marketing, in leading Luxury Resorts in the Maldives and Dubai.
Afaag Ibrahim, a Maldivian with a great reputation and exceptional leadership skills, joined as Director of Sales.
Located in Baa Atoll, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve renowned for its spectacular sea life, Vakkaru Maldives is a timeless sanctuary recently named the Indian Ocean’s Leading Resort in the World Travel Awards. An awe -inspiring 30-minute seaplane ride from Velana International Airport takes you to this secluded reef island, shaded by coconut palms and blessed with calming ocean views and powder-soft white-sand beaches. Here 113 beautifully appointed Overwater and Beach Villas are elegantly designed to respect their surroundings, while exceptional dining experiences and amenities await in six restaurants, two bars and a wine cellar. Among our industry-leading offerings is overwater Merana Spa, complete with an Ayurveda practice and a regular host to residencies by the world’s most inspiring wellness practitioners. Children and teens are generously catered for in the Parrotfish Club and Coconut Club respectively, while guests of all ages can play against world-famous pros through a best-in-class coaching partnership with Tipsarevic Luxury Tennis or play each other on the padel tennis court. Splash offers a host of thrilling water sports, ocean excursions, private luxury yachts as well as coral adoption programmes.
News
Sun Siyam Iru Fushi sets new nenchmark with 24 Hour Premium All Inclusive Dine Around
Sun Siyam Iru Fushi, the flagship resort within Sun Siyam’s Luxury Collection portfolio in the Maldives, unveils its 24 Hour Premium All Inclusive Dine Around concept to reflect its elevated positioning. The redefined package now offers seamless access to 15 distinctive dining venues, expanded signature culinary inclusions, a curated collection of over 66 premium wines and champagnes, reimagined specialty restaurants, exclusive airport lounge privileges and an intensified focus on intuitive, personalised butler service, setting a more sophisticated benchmark for contemporary island indulgence.
An Elevated Culinary Excellence Across 15 Venues
At the heart of the experience is seamless access to 15 distinctive dining venues, spanning refined beachfront grills, contemporary Asian cuisines, authentic Indian specialities, Italian and French restaurants, relaxed family friendly spaces and elegant adult only settings. The diversity ensures a cohesive yet varied gastronomic journey throughout each stay.
The experience is further distinguished by a curated collection of over 66 premium wines and champagnes, including reds, whites, rosés and sparkling selections sourced from renowned vineyards. Each restaurant presents a bespoke wine list tailored to its culinary identity, while sommelier led tastings and refined cheese pairings add depth for guests seeking a more immersive epicurean experience.

Signature Venues Reimagined
Several of the resort’s hallmark restaurants have been thoughtfully enhanced to reflect the refined direction of the Luxury Collection.
The Trio, the resort’s Italian specialty restaurant, has evolved into a sophisticated lifestyle destination celebrating La Dolce Vita. Set above shimmering waters on elegant over water patios, the space combines contemporary minimalism with warm Mediterranean character. A striking oval shaped wood fired pizza oven anchors the modern bar, while vibrant yellow accents and lush tropical foliage introduce refined energy. Live artistic performances elevate the atmosphere, transforming each evening into a celebration of Italian heritage. As part of the 24 Hour Premium All Inclusive Dine Around, guests enjoy curated signature dishes paired with a dedicated Italian wine selection.
Equally transformed, Flavours now embodies a sanctuary of French art de vivre suspended above turquoise waters. The reimagined space blends refined bistrot inspired elements with the relaxed sophistication of a Mediterranean terrace. A central outdoor bar encourages interactive mixology, while layered terraces offer intimate dining framed by uninterrupted ocean views. The culinary direction embraces authentic French fine dining, where the Chef’s savoir faire is expressed through elevated interpretations of classic dishes. Within the 24 Hour Premium All Inclusive Dine Around, guests experience bespoke Chef and Sommelier pairings featuring exceptional French vintages.
Bamboo presents a refined interpretation of Southeast Asian cuisine within an open air beachfront setting. Inspired by the culinary traditions of Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore and Indonesia, the menu revisits regional classics through the Chef’s contemporary lens, balancing authenticity with creativity. Organic textures and subtle cultural references create a warm yet sophisticated atmosphere in harmony with the island surroundings. For guests enjoying the 24 Hour Premium All Inclusive Dine Around, a bespoke menu and curated wine selection further enhance the immersive dining experience.
At Islander’s Grill, the flavours of the Maldives take centre stage in an elegant beachfront setting. Freshly grilled seafood, aromatic local curries and vibrant ceviche celebrate the richness of the Indian Ocean, while guests may select Maldivian lobster directly from the flowing pond for immediate preparation tailored to their preference. Tables set directly on the sand create a romantic backdrop, complemented by curated wine pairings and exclusive dining benefits as part of the 24 Hour Premium All Inclusive Dine Around.
For those seeking a more intimate culinary encounter, Teppanyaki delivers a live tasting experience centred around the Chef’s artistry, offering a bespoke approach to Japanese dining. As an exclusive venue not included in meal plans, Teppanyaki allows for a truly bespoke approach to every meal.

Effortless Island Living
A defining highlight within the resort’s Signature Experiences, the Sun Siyam Beach Club introduces a vibrant and contemporary dimension to island living. Set against uninterrupted ocean views, the beachfront space blends refined lounge seating with effortless elegance, creating a setting that evolves naturally throughout the day.
From relaxed sunlit afternoons to golden hour gatherings, curated DJ sessions elevate the atmosphere with a confident yet sophisticated energy. Signature cocktails, premium spirits and elevated light fare are served in a seamless flow, positioning the Beach Club as both a stylish social hub and an essential expression of the resort’s enhanced island experience.
Waters Edge, the 24-hour access venue, ensures the island’s pleasures are always within reach. Premium spirits, aperitifs, digestifs, and international beers are thoughtfully curated for connoisseurs, while health-conscious guests can enjoy freshly prepared vegetable and fruit beverages, alongside plant-based bliss vegan-inspired menus available in all restaurants. La Cremeria, the resort’s homemade ice cream venue, adds a sweet indulgence with beachside terrace service, included in the 24 Hour Premium All Inclusive Dine Around offer.

A Seamless Journey from Arrival to Departure
The elevated experience begins even before guests reach the island. At Velana International Airport in Malé, exclusive seaplane lounge access offers a refined prelude to the stay, where a dedicated chef prepares curated light fare alongside premium refreshments. A complimentary 10-minute shoulder massage further enhances the sense of calm, ensuring a seamless transition from travel to island sanctuary.
On the island, the experience unfolds through a thoughtfully curated collection of privileges. From guided cultural excursions and underwater exploration at Nemo Park to wellness rituals, meditation and Pilates sessions, each element is designed to balance vitality with serenity. Personalised butler service anticipates every detail with discretion and precision, while access to tennis and badminton courts adds an active dimension to leisure time.
“At Sun Siyam Iru Fushi, we’re redefining island living by trading ‘stress-free’ for ‘emotionally rich.’ Whether it’s a quiet moment on the beach or a curated gastronomic journey, our 24 Hour Premium All Inclusive Dine Around is a direct response to 2026’s shift toward experiential luxury. It embodies our flagship spirit and the refined excellence of Sun Siyam Luxury Collection,” highlighted Pasan Wijewardana, the resort’s Cluster Director of Sales & Marketing.
Under its Luxury Collection positioning, Sun Siyam Iru Fushi invites guests to embrace a more sophisticated expression of island living, where culinary artistry, curated indulgence and intuitive service converge in effortless harmony.
Featured
You & Me Maldives unveils curated Premium All Inclusive programme
You & Me Maldives, the adults-only luxury retreat under The Cocoon Collection, has announced the launch of its new Premium All Inclusive experience, aimed at enhancing island stays through a more seamless and comprehensive offering in the Indian Ocean.
The Premium All Inclusive experience is designed to begin from the point of arrival. Guests receive complimentary access to The Cocoon Collection Lounge at the seaplane terminal at Velana International Airport, where services are provided to ensure a smooth transition before the journey to the resort.
On arrival at the island, guests are welcomed in their villas with a chilled bottle of sparkling wine and a selection of canapés. The Premium All Inclusive plan includes unlimited premium beverages by the glass, featuring a curated range of wines, signature cocktails, top-shelf spirits, international beers and non-alcoholic options. The in-villa minibar is replenished daily with soft drinks, international beers, red and white wines, as well as assorted snacks. For stays of five nights or more, guests also receive two bottles of premium liquor from a selected list, provided once during the stay.
The experience further includes a range of activities. Guests staying a minimum of three nights are offered one sunset cruise and one snorkelling excursion per stay, while those staying seven nights or more are entitled to a catamaran cruise. Unlimited use of snorkelling equipment and non-motorised water sports, including canoeing, kayaking and paddle boarding, is also included, subject to weather conditions.
Dining forms a central part of the Premium All Inclusive concept. Guests can enjoy three themed dining evenings, including a seafood barbecue under the stars featuring prawns, lobster and oysters. For stays of five nights or more, guests may also take part in a complimentary group cooking class, with a choice between ethnic or Italian cuisine, led by the resort’s culinary team.
Wellness offerings are also incorporated into the programme, with guests able to participate in up to three complimentary sunrise yoga sessions per stay, subject to availability.
The introduction of the Premium All Inclusive experience reflects the resort’s focus on personalised service and carefully curated stays. The offering is positioned to appeal to couples seeking relaxation, romance or activity-led experiences within an adults-only island setting.
Featured
Eid celebrations at SO/ Maldives blend Arabic tradition and Maldivian culture
SO/ Maldives is inviting global travellers this season to reimagine Eid not merely as a holiday, but as an immersive island escape. Located just 15 minutes by speedboat from Malé, the fashion-forward private island retreat sets the stage for a celebration where cultural heritage, contemporary luxury and tropical glamour come together.
At the centre of the festivities is an authentic culinary experience at Hadaba, the resort’s award-winning Arabic restaurant. Guests are offered Levantine flavours, artisanal mezze and traditional recipes presented with a modern approach, creating a setting for shared dining and celebration. As part of the resort’s dine-around concept, Hadaba can be included in a wider culinary journey across the island, allowing guests to experience Arabic cuisine alongside the resort’s other dining venues.
As evening falls, celebrations move to Lazuli Beach Club, where shisha rituals and Arabic-inspired refreshments are served in a beachfront setting. Traditional performances are complemented by Maldivian Boduberu drumming and fire dance displays, creating a cultural programme designed to appeal to international travellers seeking meaningful experiences.
Across the island, Eid is marked through a series of curated activities aimed at encouraging connection and creativity. Cultural workshops, including palm-leaf artistry and henna sessions, offer opportunities to explore heritage, while younger guests are engaged through themed crafts, interactive games and sweet treat decorating. The overall atmosphere remains celebratory while maintaining a relaxed pace that reflects the resort’s character.
Beyond the festive programme, the resort positions the long weekend as a fully immersive island retreat. Guests stay in beach and overwater villas featuring private pools and ocean views, with interiors inspired by high fashion. Time is spent between spa treatments, lagoon activities, beach club experiences and sunset dining, balancing celebration with seclusion.
To mark the season, the resort has introduced two limited-time stay offers. The One Night on Us offer provides savings of 33 per cent on stays of three nights or more, along with daily breakfast, complimentary transfers and spa privileges. The Soo Summer package offers preferential rates combined with spa experiences, curated dining inclusions and additional benefits for water villa stays.
Welcoming travellers from Europe, Asia, the Middle East and beyond, the resort presents Eid as a global celebration where Arabic traditions, Maldivian culture and contemporary design are brought together. This season, guests are invited to exchange routine for island surroundings and experience Eid through a redefined island perspective.
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