Vakkaru Maldives Hotel

We came to the resort not knowing what to expect. Prior to this we had experienced a local island (Fulhadhoo) and appreciated Maldivian hospitality and something of the local culture. We had a somewhat rough passage by boat to Vakkuru but the welcome at the jetty was warm and with few check in formalities and taken straight to our overwater villa. The villa was well appointed with all necessary facilities. The website description seemed accurate. The location is beautiful. We were impressed by the service from our butler Rifau and the personal housekeeping (twice daily) provided. The restaurant food was of a high standard and we particularly enjoyed the service provided in Onu restaurant and Isoletta. We experienced the activities in the coconut club including tie die and palm leaf art . We were provided with an excellent introduction to palm leaf art. Our water sports activities were slightly constrained by the monsoon weather but we were able to experience snorkeling with the Manta rays in Hanifaru bay. This was well managed by the Splash team with a second guide on hand to assist with the snorkeling and provided personal attention and support. We were also impressed with the role the Splash team and our butler in rescuing an injured turtle who appeared next to our villa and transferred it to the Marine turtle rehabilitation centre on a nearby island. We left by seaplane which was smooth and easy and the reception at the Vakkuru seaplane lounge at the airport was also of a high standard. The staff awards night happened while we were there and the excitement and engagement of staff was evident. Overall we were impressed with the facilities and the personalised customer service provided by many staff members, too many to name individually. Room 243