Soneva Fushi Diving, MALDIVES
Airing Date: Jul 7th, 2003
Kunfunadhoo Island may be one of the largest islands in the Maldives, but it still seems just as isolated and untouched as any of the surrounding atolls. Only accessible by scenic flight, this magical haven offers pure relaxation. You can stroll along the white sand, siesta under swaying palms, or enjoy cocktails with new friends.
Relaxation is a big part of the Maldives experience, but the world's flattest country also offers some of its best diving.
Kunfunadhoo is surrounded by a lagoon filled with coral reefs. Snorkelling around the lagoon is an amazing experience, but to fully appreciate the extent of the underworld beauty, you'll need to go a bit further out.
The Soleni Dive Centre offers diving tours to some of their favourite dive spots, like one which is a 30 minutes boat ride off shore. Along the way you'll notice the water gradually change from clear turquoise to a deep ocean blue. These waters are home to over 700 species of marine life, including several indigenous species and schools of sharks.
If you go on a drift dive there can sometimes be dangerous currents, especially from December to March. Diving is easier the rest of the year, and if you're experienced and strong enough to go with the flow, you'll be rewarded with an amazing underwater show.
Back on the island, there are plenty of other water-based activities to enjoy. The resort offers complimentary windsurfing, hobiecat sailing or canoeing. Catamarans are also free of charge, and the first hour of instruction is also free. If you need further instruction, it'll cost around $45.
In the Maldives there is just one resort allowed on each island, and buildings can't be higher than the tallest palm tree, which means there are no high-rises and no crowded beaches. The 65 villas available are Robinson Crusoe style, situated right by the lagoon among the palm trees.
Every Tuesday night at 6pm guests are invited to enjoy cocktails, delicious food and colourful sunsets on a nearby island. With everything thrown in, expect to pay around $225 per person
The facts
Jetset has packages via Singapore to the Maldives with Singapore Airlines. Five nights at Soneva Fushi costs $2,979 per person from the east coast, and $2,879 from the west coast. This price includes seaplane transfers, accommodation, and breakfast every day.
Jetset
Tel: 13 63 83
Soneva Fushi Resort & Spa
Tel: 0011 960 230 304
A 40 minute dive with the Soleni Dive Centre starts from about $110 including gear and boat. Taking your own gear saves about $15.
Soleni Dive Centre
Tel: 0011 960 230 304
