To hole up here is to discover escapism, or sweet serenity under a reliable sun. It is a special place, removed from the noise of modern living, where needs are nurtured, every detail is attended to and stresses are soothed away. Floating elegantly on clear shallow waters, the timber dhonis and villas of Cocoa Island offer luxurious and ultimately private accommodation in one of the Maldives’ least developed atolls. Set between the excellent diving of the Kandooma Channel and sheltered snorkelling around the shallows, these hand-crafted self-contained houseboats are linked by a timber walkway to your private island with watersports, the COMO Shambhala Retreat Spa and a gourmet restaurant.
Accommodation
Eight Dhoni Suites and nine Dhoni Loft Suites, inspired by the local dhoni fishing boats, are adjoined by simple wooden walkways built above the shallow ocean. From your room, walk out on to a private terrace; from your terrace, slip into a warm Maldivian sea. The view from the wide platform bed is directly out to the watery expanse, and the bathrooms, all with double sinks, bath and shower, share the horizon views. These traditional fishing vessels have been redesigned and newly-crafted to offer privacy, atmosphere and ultimate comforts. All are air-conditioned, with separate baths and showers, flat-screen TVs and private sun decks. Additionally, there are ten Loft Villas, four One-Bedroom Villas and two Two-Bedroom Villas.
Facilities
Ufaa Restaurant, blending Indian and Sri Lankan traditions – Bar – 24-hour concierge – COMO Shambhala Retreat with massage, Ayurvedic treatments, hydrotherapy and healthy cuisine – Fully-equipped dive centre with tuition available – Watersports including windsurfing, fishing and catamaran sailing – Daily excursions – Library – Gym and yoga pavilion.
| Prices 7 nights (from) |
| |
| 1 Jan - 31 Mar |
£2,290 |
|
| 1 Apr - 30 Sep |
£1,926 |
|
| 1 Oct - 31 Dec |
£2,218 |
|
| Prices Extra Nights (from) |
| |
| 1 Jan - 31 Mar |
£203 |
|
| 1 Apr - 30 Sep |
£151 |
|
| 1 Oct - 31 Dec |
£192 |
|
per person inclusive of international flight, bed and breakfast in a Dhoni Suite.
Room supplements (per person per night) from
Dhoni Loft Suite £28; Loft Villa £62.
Getting There
Emirates (Heathrow) - Malé, onward speedboat transfer.