Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Kuda Huraa presents a new dimension for guests bound for the property’s popular 12-acre private island.
In addition to enjoying the resort, adventurers can explore the untouched reaches of these exotic atolls aboard the resort’s new 39 m Four Seasons Island Explorer by selecting from three-, four- and seven-night cruise options.
“The Four Seasons Island Explorer allows divers, water enthusiasts, nature lovers and 21st century explorers to discover remote shores and rarely visited dive/snorkelling sites enjoying the same service, comfort, and style offered at its award-winning resort,” a hotel spokesperson said
He continues: “Built to the highest standards, the sleek three-deck catamaran was constructed in Perth, Australia by Image Marine features 10 spacious state rooms and one Explorer Suite, two sun decks with Jacuzzi, restaurant with indoor and outdoor dining, bar, lounge and library.
“This 39 m catamaran with a beam of 12 m and a draft of 1.90 m cruises at 16 knots with twin MTU diesels and fixed pitch propellers. A Sea State Motion Control System further enhances the innate stability of the vessel.
“Ensuring guests view the most spectacular scenery and sites in the remote waters, the Four Seasons Island Explorer stops at pre-selected sites daily. Along the journey guests can select to partake in dives to remote regions seldom seen by locals or tourists; snorkel and play in the turquoise waters teeming with neon-coloured sealife; indulge in Four Seasons lunch breaks or dinner celebrations on the private shores of tropical white sandy beaches; or relax in solitude under the shade of a coconut palm like Robinson Crusoe.
“Limited to 22 passengers, this unique cruise experience is for people who enjoy their privacy and are seeking a holiday that takes them beyond the normal beach escape.
“The Four Seasons Island Explorer’s Dive Centre is managed by an international staff of dive instructors and is equipped with Nitrox Air, scooters and a comprehensive selection of dive gear. Distant sites are accessed by dive tenders and a traditionally-crafted dhoni boat. Sunrise, wreck, night dives as well as PADI specialist and educational dive courses are offered to divers.
“Guests are entertained by the numerous cruise activities. Watersports activities include snorkelling, water skiing, kayaking, windsurfing and deep-sea fishing. The Four Seasons Island Explorer’s marine biologist leads snorkelling trips and presents fish talks for guests wishing to learn and understand more about this fascinating aquatic environment. Non-divers can also join a discover scuba diving course or snorkelling excursions, island site seeing, beach games and sports and cultural presentations are planned. On-board massage service is available daily as well.
“There are two seven-night route options that guests can select from: the Northern Passage or the Southern Cross. Guests who select one of the three or four day options embark or disembark the Four Seasons Island Explorer enroute its journey by seaplane.
All 10 staterooms are bright and airy with large windows, and measure 20 sq m. The mood of the interior is contemporary with teak wood grain complemented by cool, subdued tones and soft goods from the subcontinent. All state rooms are air-conditioned and feature twin beds that can convert to a king bed, couch, writing desk, mini bar, DVD and music system, telephone, in-cabin safe and en-suite bathroom with bath tub/shower, WC and double vanity.
Rates per person for a stateroom start at $340 (shoulder season - May 12 to July 14), $390 (high season - July 15 to December 21, December 2 to May 11) and $470 (festive season - December 22 to January 4). The Explorer Suite is available for $700 (shoulder season), $880 (high season) and $950 (festive season). All rates are priced per person per night and based on twin share basis, including full board, excursions plus diving and equipment.