We've been enamored with the Indian Ocean islands since we led the first fly-fishing group to stay at the Alphonse Island Resort, Seychelles in January 2000. Since then, we've gone back too many times to count, and we love the casual luxury, relaxation, watersports, surfing, fine dining, and adventure activities as much as the fly fishing. Plus, if you're looking for the ultimate romantic getaway, or a special family gathering, you can't do better than choosing one of these irresistible islands. 

MALDIVES MARVELS: There is no place quite like the Maldives. Arguably the best beaches on the planet are complemented by some of the world's most sumptuous remote stays. Each resort in the Maldives features private island experiences accessible by boat and/or air transfers from Male, the nation's capital. World-class diving and snorkeling over pristine reefs teeming with sea life, seemingly endless breaks for dynamite surfing, virgin fly fishing flats, and romantic over-the-water bungalows await you. And, with the world's most exclusive hotel brands competing to attain greater heights of luxury, standards of services and personal attention are off the charts. Here are some of our favorite resorts in the country.

​JOALI Maldives - ​Reinventing the wheel can be tricky in a destination like The Maldives. But resorts across the country’s paradisiacal atolls always work to outdo each other. Eschewing the temptation to overreach, Joali Maldives, one of the newer resorts in the country, has adopted a straightforward route to success that involves getting every detail — from staff training to design nuances — absolutely right. The overwater and beach villas are beautifully curated. Also remarkable is the resort spa which features a lavish marble hammam and a floating yoga pavilion that frames the sunrise. Overwater treatment rooms have glass-fronted saunas, so you can sweat it all out and then leap into the ocean. And if your stay is wellness-focused sister property Joali Being delivers an over-the-top experience.
Best for: Seclusion and privacy, wellness, sophisticated vibe, exceptional service, fine dining, amazing activities provided by the adventure team.
​Getting here: In Male you will be welcomed into the private JOALI lounge. Then a 40-minute seaplane journey delivers you to the resort.

COMO Maalifushi - Located in the northern Thaa Atoll, the resort is seductively low-key with minimalist styling, specialized person service, stellar food and a COMO Shambhala wellness retreat. Discreetly positioned around the island  and over the water in the lagoon are 65 villas and suites, all with plunge pools, soothing interiors and giant bathrooms. Coral flanks the island creating a stunning house reef. There's also a gorgeous strip of beach and nearby dive sites. Indeed, the resort is notable for a range of incredible curated experiences that include deep sea fishing on a 56' Hatteras yacht, fly-fishing for trevally, triggerfish and other species, surfing, and night swimming with whale sharks. 
Insider Tip - Get a view of the underwater world on a night snorkel, lit by special UV torches, or set out on a whale shark safari to swim with these gentle giants.
Best for: Secluded island barefoot luxury escape, romantic getaway, family gatherings, remote fly-fishing, surfing, diving and whale shark experiences.
Getting here: We will arrange your spectacular 60-minute seaplane flight from Male.  

Jumeirah Maldives, Olhahali Island - This latest addition to the Jumeirah family of resorts opened at the end of 2021. Surrounded by the sapphire seas of the Indian Ocean, and powder white beaches, the resort is a secluded sanctuary dedicated to all things luxury. 67 Mediterranean-chic beach and overwater villas are highlighted by private rooftop terraces, infinity pools and 24/7 butler service. Fine dining options abound with award-winning menus of Kayto and Shimmers, and the overwater spa offers decadent signature rituals inspired by Ayurvedic tradition. Activities range from diving and snorkeling to a variety of watersports, yoga classes, underwater photography excursions, private beach picnics, and kids programs with babysitting services. 
Best for: Sophisticated hip vibe, luxury and pampering service, privacy and romance, active adventure travelers and families, and fine attention to detail.
Getting here: We arrange your special transfers by luxury speedboat, about 45 minutes from Male. Private seaplane transfer is also available, about 15 minutes from Male. 

JOALI Being - Journey along the path to self-discovery and transformation at JOALI BEING, an ultra-luxury nature-immersive wellness retreat on the tropical island of Bodufushi in Raa Atoll. Here you’ll find 68 private villas, each with their own pool and jadugar (private butler), a curated selection of healthy-yet-indulgent sustainably sourced cuisine, and an entire team of naturopaths, nutritionists, therapists, and movement specialists ready to help you return home feeling rejuvenated, inspired, and with a renewed sense of peace. Kids 14 years and older are welcome.
Insider tip: Enjoy the resort’s dreamy overwater meditation deck, Ocean Sala, or let your cares drift away in the Russian banya (steam bath), salt inhalation room, and hammam. Amazing snorkeling from your villa.
Best for: Total relaxation and a sense of well-being, special pampering service, unique spa treatments, yoga classes, fine dining and romantic dinners, plus an array of watersports.
Getting here:  In Male you will be welcomed into the private JOALI lounge. Then a 45-minute seaplane journey delivers you to the resort.

One & Only Reethi Rah - Situated on one of the largest private islands in North Malé Atoll, there is an abundance of space, freedom and activities to discover. The sophisticated luxury resort has 12 pristine white sand beaches and six kilometers of shoreline to explore. Home to some of the most exceptional, spacious villas in the Indian Ocean, each villa is a self-contained private sanctuary. Beach villas are separated by lush vegetation, while water villas connected to the island by overwater walkways are in small clusters of four, each villa facing a different direction providing privacy and a serene setting. 
Best for: Adventure seeking families, KidsOnly Club, romantic escapes, PADI National Geographic dive center, watersports, exceptional dining and spa experiences.
Getting here: Conveniently reached by a 45-minute luxury yacht journey from Malé airport, or 15 minutes via private seaplane.

Four Seasons Resort at Landaa Giraavaru - On its own lush island in the Maldives’ only UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, the resort is surrounded by pristine beaches and the world’s largest manta ray population in season. Choose from 103 villas, including vast loft-style water villas. Enjoy four restaurants and three bars, including the new Blu Beach Club, all showcasing Ayurvedic cuisine options. Join pioneering conservation activities, then immerse yourself in bespoke condition-targeting Yoga Therapy Courses at the award-winning Spa & Ayurvedic Retreat.
Insider tip: Visit the Marine Discovery Centre to learn about coral reefscaping, turtle rehabilitation, manta ray conservation and clown-fish breeding. And great surfing.
Best for: Nature-loving adventure, diving with manta rays, family experiences, romantic getaways, surfing, personalized service and refined luxury.
Getting here: We will arrange your private 35-minute seaplane flight to the resort from Male.

Velaa Private Island, Noonu Atoll - 
Polite luxury is the motto here, where all 47 private villas – 18 suspended over water – feature secluded pools and butler service. Thoughtfully designed, the villas were conceived as a place of effortless comfort and perfect escape to share your most meaningful occasions. Guests can relax in luxury at overwater Velaa Spa, hone their short game at the Velaa Golf Academy by Ryder Cup captain José María Olazábal, or explore the undersea world with a Seabob or a James Bond-style semi-submarine. No resort has more amazing water toys or thrilling activities than Velaa. And as for dining experiences, you can enjoy a world of flavors to suit you tastes along with the finest wines and champagnes.
​Best for: Active adventures and watersports, family gatherings, the ultimate in villa accommodations, privacy and romance, pampering spa treatments, new fly-fishing program.
Getting here: We will arrange your private seaplane flight from Male to the resort.

Soneva Jani, Noonu Atoll - A new benchmark for Maldives' luxury, the resort's 54 lavish overwater retreats and villas let you gaze upon pristine blue waters and sugar-sand beaches. Choose from hideaways with retractable roofs and waterslides; or brand-new, all-inclusive beachside villas. Enjoy a private picnic lunch on the beach curated by a personal chef and surf the Noonu Atoll with an instructor, before an evening feast of top-notch cuisine at one of eight fine dining venues. Plus Soneva Stars Calendar creates unique experiences from visiting Michelin-starred chefs to sporting legends and acclaimed therapists. Something special is always being prepared just for you. 
Best for: Indulgent escapism, beach relaxation, marine experiences and watersports, spa wellness, secluded romance, and exquisite fine dining.
Getting here: We will arrange your private seaplane flight from Male to the resort. 

St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort -
As you swoop in on your seaplane transfer, this private island resort appears as a mammoth lobster on the tranquil azure waters. Designed for today's experiential traveler, the island and it's surrounding atolls are remote even by Maldives standards. This allows you to enjoy a remarkable untouched ocean habitat where marine biologists revel in the rich biodiversity of the Indian Ocean. Combining contemporary design and local craftsmanship, ​the resort's 77 ultraluxury villas welcome you with private butler pampering. Add in fine dining options, sensational spa treatments, sunset yacht cruises, diving with manta rays, lots of water toys, and you have an exquisite vacation experience waiting.
Best for: Pampering luxury, health and wellness, marine eco-tourism, diving and watersports, family vacations, and romantic escapes.
Getting here: We will arrange your 45-minute seaplane flight from Male to the resort.  

​Conrad Maldives Rangali Island - Conrad Maldives Rangali Island is an exotic playground full of possibilities. Seriously, does it get more over the top than the world’s first undersea residence? The other 150 villas and suites are equally surreal with private sun terraces, plunge pools, and stairs leading straight into the Indian Ocean. At the overwater spa, alchemists work their magic using pure Himalayan salts and essential oils. Curated experiences are truly inspired, from a coral adoption program led by a marine biologist to mastering the art of noodle rolling with celebrity chef Jereme Leung.
Insider tip: - Scuba diving heaven: The South Ari Atoll is close to more than 40 prime diving sites teeming with whale sharks, turtles, manta rays, and with shoals of brightly colored marine life.
Best for: Family adventures with kids club, romantic escapes, local immersion, scuba diving and watersports, and exquisite dining.
Getting here: We will arrange your seaplane and speedboat transfer from Male.

Cheval Blanc Randheli Island - North of Malé, the Noonu Atoll is an unspoilt paradise with rustling palm fronds, tropical flowers, ivory sands and pristine waters filled with vibrant marine life. The resort welcomes couples and families with a unique sense of genuine warmth. 46 villas take palm-roofed cabana living to a new level. Villas face the horizon for the utmost privacy; admire the views by your infinity pool while your Majordome (private butler) fulfills your every wish and an Alchemist customizes your stay. Guerlain-designed treatments are on the Cheval Blanc Spa island, while fine dining at Le 1947 rivals international gastronomic restaurants. 
Best for: Luxury relaxation, fine dining, bespoke experiences designed just for you, private yacht excursions, soothing spa treatments, and a variety of watersports.
Getting here: Upon arrival in Male, enjoy the private Seaplane Salon, then take a 40 minute seaplane ride to the resort.  

SEYCHELLES WONDERS - We fell in love with these islands in January 2000, when we led the first-ever fly-fishing group to Alphonse Island Resort. At the time, this was the preeminent frontier of saltwater fly-fishing. Today the fly-fishing options are greatly expanded and led by some of the finest and most experienced fly-fishing outfitters and guides in the world. In addition, the islands have seen an expansion into luxury tourism, with top resorts providing unique remote experiences in some of the most gorgeous marine and beach environments on the planet. 
Here are some of our favorite fly-fishing experiences and resorts in the country -- MORE COMING SOON.

The Best of Seychelles Fly-Fishing

Alphonse Island, Farquhar, Providence, St. Brandon, Cosmoledo, Astove....the places of fly-fishing dreams, for real, and as we like to say, the Disneyland of saltwater fly-fishing.
We promise your trip with us will take place at one of the finest remote saltwater flats fishing destinations on the planet. Trophy sized Bonefish and Indo-Pacific Permit, the sheer numbers of GTs, Bumphead Parrotfish, Triggerfish, Milkfish, and countless other species swim freely in these remote waters.  We'll help you choose the perfect destination for your ideal trip. 
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Contact Stephen now to learn more. Space for the 2023 season is very limited, only a few spots available. And we are booking now for the 2024 and 2025 seasons.

Stop-overs in Dubai and Doha - Both Emirates and Qatar Airlines have superior service to the Maldives through Dubai and Doha. 

Some of the hotels we love in Dubai include: Burj Al Arab Jumeirah; Four Seasons Resort at Jumeirah Beach; Atlantis The Royal Dubai; Jumeirah Al-Naseem; Jumeirah Al Qasr; One & Only The Palm.
Some of the hotels we love in Doha include: Four Seasons Doha; W Doha; Park Hyatt Doha; Fairmont Doha; St. Regis Doha.​

Can't find what you're looking for? We have our team and partners throughout the Maldives and Seychelles. Drop us a note and let us know what you're searching for. We'll put together a special itinerary just for you. Travel Tip: We will customize your international flights to match your chosen itinerary. Most travel from North American and Europe is through Dubai, UAE or Doha, Qatar. We highly recommend a stop-over in one of these unique and exciting cities for two to three nights if you have the time. 

let's start planning your trip!