How to dive like a Crazy Rich Asian at Four Seasons Maldives

Oct 30 , 2018

The water villas at Landaa Giraavaru, on the Maldives’ Baa atoll. Photos: Cedric Tan

From luxury catamaran nights to protected marine reserves, the Four Seasons Maldives knows how to pull off an opulent nautical escape

For those channelling a Crazy Rich Asian-style hankering for a deluxe diving getaway, the Maldives should top the list.

Since gaining independence from the British in 1965, the tiny island nation has made tourism its main industry. And guests with deep pockets are spoilt for choice: the Maldives’ 28 atolls are dotted with luxury resorts along the seafront, each pushing the frontiers of ultra-luxe hospitality. In 2018 alone, more than a dozen five-star properties threw open their doors, with several more expected to open throughout 2019.

The spa at Landaa Giraavaru Four Seasons has several suites, all spaced out for seclusion.

For decades, hard core divers have descended on the Maldives to seek out premium deep-water experiences in the many sites off the atolls. While luxury resorts do not hold exclusive rights to these spots, only a few deliver opportunities that combine fabulous living and expertly executed dives.

Here are some of the highlights of a four-night diving holiday with The Four Seasons Maldives, which offers one of the most competitive itineraries.

Atoll adventures

The private infinity pools at Kuda Huraa’s villas face out to sea.

The Four Seasons has three resorts in the Maldives: “garden island” Kuda Huraa on the North Malé atoll, and Landaa Giraavaru and the exclusive Private Island Voavah on the Baa atoll, both of which lie within Unesco-protected biosphere reserves. Baa is home to some of the most fascinating under-water systems, including seasonal congregations of manta-rays in large numbers, and breathtaking coral colonies.

A Four Seasons seafaring adventure typically starts with an overnight stay at Kuda Huraa. Then its time to board the Four Seasons Explorer, a luxury catamaran yacht (arguably the Four Season’s fourth resort, albeit water-based), for a few days of diving, deep-sea fishing, and dolphin spotting. After daily explorations in the waters around a few lesser-known atolls, the trip ends at the Landaa Giraavaru resort.