Located in South Male Atoll, Anantara Veli and Naladhu Private Island form an exclusive resort complex just 30-35 minutes by speedboat from Velana International Airport. Anantara Veli offers 67 adults-only overwater and beach bungalows focused on romance and wellness, while Naladhu Private Island features just 20 ultra-luxury houses with personal butler service on its own secluded island. Connected by a short pontoon ride, guests at both properties enjoy access to 10+ restaurants across the Anantara complex, creating one of the most exclusive yet diverse resort experiences in the Maldives.
The combined properties offer 87 accommodations ranging from Anantara Veli's overwater bungalows to Naladhu's spacious private houses with pools. Each property maintains its distinct character while sharing facilities.
Guests at both properties have access to all restaurants across the Anantara complex, including Dhigu, totaling over 10 dining venues. This creates exceptional variety rarely found in Maldives resorts.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do transfers work for Anantara Veli and Naladhu?
Both resorts are reached by speedboat from Velana International Airport - 30 minutes for Naladhu and 35 minutes for Veli. Naladhu offers more exclusive transfer options including private speedboat or their luxury Nirvana yacht. Standard shared speedboat transfers cost approximately $265 per person for Veli and $320 for Naladhu (roundtrip). The resorts share the same lagoon and are connected by a 2-3 minute pontoon ride. Naladhu guests receive a more personalized arrival with butler meet-and-greet service.
Can guests access facilities at both properties?
Yes, this is one of the unique advantages. Naladhu guests have full access to all Anantara properties (Veli, Dhigu) including 10+ restaurants, multiple bars, spas, and recreational facilities. Veli guests can dine at Naladhu's Living Room restaurant but cannot use Naladhu's private facilities like the pool or tennis court. Both properties' guests can take the complimentary pontoon boats between islands throughout the day. This creates an exclusive yet diverse experience with privacy when wanted and variety when desired.
What makes Naladhu different from Anantara Veli?
Naladhu is ultra-exclusive with only 20 houses on its own private island, offering complete seclusion with 24-hour butler service, private pools for every house, and no-menu dining where chefs create personalized meals. It's significantly more expensive but provides ultimate privacy and personalized service. Anantara Veli is adults-only with 67 overwater bungalows, more affordable, and offers a romantic atmosphere with good facilities. Think of Naladhu as a private villa experience while Veli is a boutique resort experience.
Are children allowed at these properties?
Anantara Veli is strictly adults-only (18+ years). Naladhu welcomes children of all ages, making it one of the few ultra-luxury private island resorts in the Maldives that accommodates families. Naladhu's houses are spacious enough for families, and children can use the kids' club at neighboring Anantara Dhigu. This unique setup means Naladhu offers both family-friendly luxury and adult tranquility depending on your house location.
What's included vs. what costs extra?
At Naladhu, rates typically include breakfast, butler service, non-motorized water sports, and basic mini-bar. Most guests add half-board or full-board as à la carte dining is expensive. At Veli, you can choose from various meal plans including all-inclusive. Both properties charge extra for spa treatments, motorized water sports, diving, excursions, and premium alcohol. Naladhu's personalized service means many things can be arranged complimentary that would cost extra elsewhere, like private beach setups or special dietary preparations.
Is the house reef good for snorkeling?
The house reef is accessible from the beach at both properties, though it requires a short swim to reach the best coral areas. Marine life includes turtles, reef sharks, rays, and tropical fish. While some coral shows signs of past bleaching, the reef is recovering. The properties excel in organizing snorkeling excursions to pristine sites nearby, including exclusive access to Gulhifushi island's untouched reefs. Complimentary snorkeling equipment is provided at both resorts.
When is the best time to visit?
November to April offers the best weather with minimal rain and calm seas, though this is peak season with highest rates. May to October is the wet season with occasional storms but also better value and fewer crowds. For surfing, visit April to October when swells are consistent. Manta ray season runs May to November. The resorts are stunning year-round with temperatures consistently 26-32°C. Naladhu's exclusivity means it never feels crowded regardless of season.
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