Alisha's visit to COMO Maalifushi

My sister’s main hope for the trip was to see turtles for the first time, so we joined a turtle snorkelling excursion, part of the resort’s weekly programme. After a short briefing on the two types of turtles found in the area, we headed to a spot about 20 minutes from Maalifushi, where we spent an hour snorkelling with the island’s marine biologist. We couldn’t have asked for a better experience: we saw nine turtles in total, including two surfacing for air. Alongside them were plenty of other fish, including the rather unfortunate-looking and endangered Napoleon fish. My only regret was not having an underwater camera to capture it all.

Other highlights included a sunset dolphin cruise, where around twenty dolphins frolicked alongside our boat, and several excellent spa treatments that managed to undo some very stubborn muscle knots. I also attended an afternoon talk by the marine biologist and learnt all about coral. It was fascinating to discover that coral is actually an animal, most closely related to jellyfish and anemones, as well as to hear about the inspiring coral propagation projects happening around the island.

One concern I always have when staying on a private island resort is the variety of food. If I’m in one place for a while, the last thing I want is to feel limited to a couple of dishes on an unchanging menu. Thankfully, that wasn’t the case at COMO Maalifushi. I chose something different from the à la carte breakfast and lunch menus every day (my favourites were the tropical granola clusters at breakfast and the fish tacos at lunchtime). With three themed evenings each week and a dinner menu that changed slightly each day, there was plenty of variety.

There are a few things worth considering before booking. Firstly, the seaplane journey is fairly long, taking over an hour, sometimes more if it stops at other resorts. If you are nervous about flying by seaplane or prone to motion sickness, this might not be ideal. Secondly, the island is very family-friendly, with a lovely kids’ club and plenty of accommodation options for families. During school holidays it can therefore feel busier, which is worth bearing in mind if you are seeking a particularly tranquil stay. Lastly, while the island has a thriving house reef, it sits slightly further from the beach and is accessed via the jetty. A nice touch, though, is the member of staff stationed there throughout the day, ready with baby shampoo to keep snorkelling masks crystal clear, as well as fresh water and beach towels for afterwards.

9am Breakfast at Madi

10am Head to the Marine Centre for a turtle expedition

1pm Lunch at Thila, with views of the ocean

3pm Relax in the pavilion in your villa

4pm Visit the spa or enjoy a complimentary yoga class, which happens twice daily

6pm Happy hour at Thila for a complimentary mojito or prosecco

7pm Dinner at Tai, the overwater Japanese restaurant

9pm Star gaze on your walk back to your villa (I love the app Stellarium)