Recommendations for Land-based Resorts, January 2026

[billt4sf]

We are looking to go to the Maldives in January 2026 and we are looking for recommendations for land resorts where the dive sites are within a few minutes boat ride from the resort.



We are getting on in years and although we still dive well (600 dives each) we have increasing limitations in other ways, so unfortunately our requirements are rather specific. Hoping some of you knowledgeable people can help us out.



It has to be land-based, and the dive sites have to be close to the resort to limit my wife’s exposure on boats as she loves to dive, but gets seasick more and more easily. She has tried everything and now it is time to limit boat trips.



For the same reason as above, it would be best - almost a requirement – for the resort to be reachable from the airport within, say a 30 minute boat ride.



We need a private DM, someone experienced and attentive.



We don’t need aircon but good beds are essential.



Our budget can handle most things and we prefer four star but it doesn’t have to be. I think we would probably prefer a western-style resort to a local place. A friend mentioned Kuramathi, which seems to be a resort with diving, and I wondered whether we would get the personal attention we need there.



We envision spending 7 – 10 days in Maldives, so perhaps we should think about hitting a couple places in our first trip? This will be our first expedition to the Maldives, but maybe not the last.


Thanks and happy bubbles!



Big Bill

 

[Jay_Remi]

January is high season in the Maldives, and you will have great weather, and fantastic visibility under water. Given the requirement of a short boat transfer from the airport (smart choice anyhow) you would thus have to chose between North Male atoll and south Male atoll. Vaavu and Ari would be too far away for you. Kuramathis is way longer than 30 mns speedboat ride, so that would not fit. Almost all resorts have dive centers. Since you are French, you may be familiar with Club Med. Their Kani resort is really nice, well located with a good dive center and good boats too, with lots of nice dive sites closeby. You also have the possibility to stay in a local island (Himmafushi, Thulusdhoo in North Male for instance), or if you want of tourits and amenities: Maafushi in South Male, Guraidho and Gulhi are options too. Almost all local islands have dive centers. Stays in local islands and dives are half the price you would pay in a resort. But obviously it's not the same type of vacation. Let me know if you need more info.

 

[Luko]

Since you are French,

He's not. Although tries hard but fails on food & wine taste.
(private joke for Bill aka BBB )

 

[Jay_Remi]

He's not. Although tries hard but fails on food & wine taste.
(private joke for Bill aka BBB )

Food and wine, the ultimate test!