cruise into 2008 with huvafen fushi’s new floating room category
Luxury yachts and live-aboards are fast becoming de rigueur in the Maldives, appealing to the international jet set’s quest for the ultimate exclusivity, freedom and privacy. Embracing this trend, Huvafen Fushi is set to take its already iconic offering to a new level this November, partnering glamorous land-based rooms with super sexy, super luxurious cruising vessels – perfect for guests seeking exploration and adventure on water, combined with an indulgent island paradise.
From next month, two stunning new cruising options will be introduced at Huvafen Fushi: one 21-metre luxury cruiser, Sensuelle, designed exclusively for Huvafen Fushi; and five handcrafted dhonis (traditional Maldivian fishing boats), luxuriously transformed. Available as a partnership of land and sea-based accommodation, Huvafen Fushi’s new ‘floating’ room category will offer guests complete freedom of choice.
Sensuelle at Huvafen Fushi
A 21-metre long, sexy, sleek powerboat, showcasing the best in modern design, Sensuelle is a complete contrast to the traditional sailing boats of the Maldives, and will offer guests a cruising experience like no other.
Unlike most traditional yachts, the interior is furnished using soft textures and clean lines, and has been uniquely designed for Huvafen Fushi by award-winning UK architect Richard Hywel Evans. On board, guests will discover accommodation of unrivalled luxury including: one huge master bedroom (rather than four small berths usually found on a vessel of this size) with a full-sized bathtub; dedicated spa room for on-board pampering; dining room; personal wine cellar; bar; chill-out area at the front and a Jacuzzi at the back. The yacht will even be fitted with a fireman’s pole for speedy access from the fly deck to the lower deck. Finishing touches will include a water cannon and deep sea fishing chair, providing guests with the latest in sailing design technology combined with the exacting standards of an award-winning luxury resort. Luxuries on board Sensuelle include Frette linen, Culti bath products, B&O sound technology, pre-loaded i-Pods and oversized televisions.
Sensuelle will be available to guests booking the Ocean and Beach Pavilions, Ocean Bungalows and Deluxe Beach Bungalows at Huvafen Fushi, and will include the services of three dedicated and discreet crew, on hand to cater to guests’ every whim. From midnight star cruising to picnics on remote islands, and visits to the best snorkelling and dive sites, Sensuelle will offer guests ultimate freedom of choice. Guests will be able to individually select from the extensive culinary offering at Huvafen Fushi, ranging from locally caught fresh fish, to extravagant BBQs, lobster salad or gourmet pasta, all cooked to order on board. To complete the experience, guests will be able to enjoy pampering massage therapies and signature Lime Spa rituals in Sensuelle’s own dedicated spa treatment room.
A minimum two-night stay applies. Rates start from US$8000 per night including accommodation in a Deluxe Beach Bungalow with plunge pool and on board Sensuelle. This price is based on two people sharing on a bed and breakfast basis. Should guests wish to extend their stay at Huvafen Fushi without the inclusion of Sensuelle, they may do so and the normal room rates apply for any additional nights.
When not booked in combination with room accommodation, Sensuelle will be available to hire on a charter basis. Prices start from US$3500 for an afternoon, including up to four hours’ cruising on a boat only basis, exclusive of food and additional accommodation. Full rates, terms and conditions are available on request.
Dhonis at Huvafen Fushi
Traditional on the outside, yet high design on the inside, Huvafen Fushi’s five new dhonis will embody the grace and romance of the Maldives. The first three locally handcrafted 65-foot Maldivian sailing boats, each boasting a dedicated crew and luxurious amenities, will be available at Huvafen Fushi from December, with two further dhonis due to arrive in the New Year.
Designed with just one couple in mind, with a beautifully crafted sweeping bow and wooden hull, the dhonis glide through the water either by motor or under sail. Fully crewed, guests can sail where they please, exploring undiscovered reefs teeming with fish, or simply relaxing on board. Inside, the dhonis are fitted out with every luxury imaginable: The bedroom features a king-sized bed with Frette linen, Bose surround sound, i-Pod, DVD player and LCD screen; the fully equipped kitchen boasts a well-stocked Smeg fridge and further features include a spacious Philippe Starck bathroom and living area.
Pared as a combination package with all room categories, guests may elect to have their own dhoni for all or just a few nights of their stay at Huvafen Fushi, enabling them the freedom to choose between sleeping on board in air-conditioned comfort of the dhoni’s bedroom, under the stars on deck, or in their land-based accommodation. All dhoni experiences are on a full-board basis (excluding alcohol) and when on board, guests may liaise with their private chef to select a customised menu served either on deck or on one of the many deserted sandbanks. Alternatively guests can return to land and enjoy a meal at one of Huvafen Fushi’s exquisite restaurants. The crew remains on hand at all times to cater for guests’ every need, from breathtaking snorkeling to romantic lunches or dinner under the stars.
For a graceful and decadent way to transfer to the resort, guests can choose to be picked up at the airport by their dhoni, enabling them to relax and unwind as soon as they step off the plane, while the dhoni sails them away to island paradise.
The dhonis will be available to book in combination with all room categories. Prices start from US$1,745 per night in a Beach Bungalow with plunge pool together with a luxury dhoni. This price is based on two people sharing on a full board basis, excluding alcohol and a minimum two-night stay applies. Should guests wish to extend their stay without the dhoni, normal room rates apply for additional nights.
When not booked in combination with room accommodation, the dhonis will be available to hire on a charter basis. Prices start from US$400 for a three-hour afternoon trip on a boat only basis, exclusive of food and additional accommodation. Full rates, terms and conditions are available on request.
