Veligandu Maldives Resort Island to open in November

Crown and Champa Resorts (CCR) has expanded its presence in the luxury space with its latest project, Veligandu Maldives Resort Island in the North Ari Atoll, just 20 minutes by seaplane or 60 minutes by speedboat from Malé International airport and welcoming guests of all ages.

Established in 1984 as one of the pioneering resorts in the Maldives, Veligandu has undergone an extensive renovation and is set to welcome guests from November 23, 2024 to its 100 villas.

Veligandu belongs to CCR’s acclaimed luxury collection alongside Kudadoo Maldives Private Island, Hurawalhi Maldives Island Resort, Kagi Maldives Resort & Spa, and Jawakara Islands Maldives.

There are no man-made islands in the CCR portfolio, and Veligandu is no exception, seamlessly blending natural beauty with secluded luxury and featuring already-established lush vegetation and flora with traditional Maldivian luxury, a statement said.

Ahmed Shaheen, Chief Commercial Leader, said: “Many of our staff have been at Veligandu for several years, and whilst the resort has been closed for over a year for its extensive upgrade, they are already very much looking forward to welcoming guests again.”

Just a 10-minute boat ride away from the resort, Big Blue point is the most likely place for hammerhead shark sightings in the Maldives.

The North Ari Atoll features 18 dive sites catering to divers of all levels and Veligandu’s Ocean Dive centre offers custom-made courses tailored to all guests.

Snorkelling and diving excursions will also give guests the opportunity to encounter the diverse marine life of the North Ari Atoll including sea turtles, manta rays, and eagle rays.

The inhouse marine biologist is on hand to enhance the guest experience by sharing a deeper understanding of the underwater world while contributing to the conservation of the coral reefs and marine ecosystems.

Veligandu is only the second resort in the Maldives to feature a pickleball court, as well as padel tennis and bicycles. The resort’s ocean water sports and excursions centre gives guests the opportunity to jet ski, parasail, kayak, and paddleboard, amongst many other activities.

For guests looking for a more relaxing experience, Veligandu also features an overwater Himeyn Spa with an extensive treatment programme and a yoga pavilion.

Fathuhulla Ibrahim, General Manager, said: "Veligandu Maldives – a natural haven! A home away from home from the moment of arrival on this pristine island until the moment of departure. A secluded destination where personalised experiences create everlasting memories."

Veligandu Maldives Resort Island’s villas include 47 Ocean Pool Villas with a section of glass floor to the crystalline waters below; 28 Ocean Villas, 10 of which have a private jacuzzi; 16 Jacuzzi Beach Villas; and 9 Beach Villas. Each villa brings the outside in with interiors synonymous with the tropical surroundings.

Veligandu features a variety of cuisines suited to all tastes – Japanese-inspired teppanyaki cuisine with live, theatrical knifework and cooking, while Raalhu specialises in fine seafood – such as local lobster – paired with unparalleled ocean vistas.

Guests can also enjoy buffet-style dining at the Dhonveli restaurant with a fusion of authentic Asian and international cuisines, or, for those guests opting for a lighter meal, Thundi’s snack menu offers tapas-style bites and salads.

All stays at Veligandu booked before August 31 will receive a 40% discount, allowing a villa for two people, inclusive of breakfast. – TradeArabia News Service