My first glimpse of the Maldives from the window of a Virgin Atlantic flight was truly breathtaking. The endless expanse of turquoise water dotted with tiny islands shimmered, living up to every postcard image I’d ever seen. This breathtaking arrival was part of a special journey for me, thanks to Virgin Atlantic and Sun Siyam Resorts, who invited me to celebrate the launch of their new route to Malé.
Island Arrival Experience
Arriving in Malé felt like stepping into another world. After clearing immigration, a friendly face from Sun Siyam was there to greet me, guiding me smoothly towards the seaplane terminal. It’s a unique place, where every piece of luggage, even the small carry-ons, is weighed meticulously before boarding. It’s all about ensuring a safe and comfortable flight for everyone on those incredible seaplanes.
A short, comfortable drive brought us to the seaplane terminal. Here, many resorts have their own private lounges, and Sun Siyam offers two, which are perfect for a moment of calm. I found myself drawn to the terrace, sipping on a cool drink and watching the planes take off and land. It’s quite a view, with the hustle and bustle of arrivals and departures. Sun Siyam’s own branded seaplanes stood out with their vibrant colors, a lovely touch.
Before boarding, I was treated to a quick, but wonderful, shoulder and neck massage – the perfect way to unwind before the aerial journey. Then, it was time to board our seaplane. The sound of the engines is impressive, so earplugs are definitely a good idea, which they provide. The flight itself was around 50 minutes, a scenic tour of atolls and sandbanks from above. Landing on the water near the resort felt so surreal, like arriving in a dream.
Resort Welcome and Check-in
From the seaplane’s floating dock, a small boat took us the final short distance to the arrival jetty at Sun Siyam Iru Veli. The welcome was so warm and genuine. Instead of a bustling reception, I was invited to relax at the Chemistry Bar. With a refreshing drink in hand and a cool towel, I completed the check-in process. The view from the bar alone made it feel like the vacation had truly begun.
The resort’s reception area is open-air and quite understated, serving as the main point for any questions and for checking out when it’s time to leave.
Island Exploration and Activities
One of the first things I noticed about Iru Veli is how peaceful it is. Even in areas that might be popular, I often found myself with plenty of space. There are so many quiet spots to just relax and soak in the beauty.
Beautiful Beaches
Taking a walk around the island is a must. One side offers serene, tranquil spots, perfect for finding a hammock and a good book. The other side, facing northeast, is where you’ll find the wider beaches, especially lovely in the late afternoon light. The entire edge of the island is a walkable beach, perfect for a leisurely stroll with the water at your feet.
Poolside and Bar Relaxation
The Chemistry Bar is home to the main swimming pool, and there’s also a separate shallow pool for children. It’s a great spot to lounge by the water, with comfortable sunbeds and inviting daybeds. For a more adult-oriented vibe, the Fresh Water Bar has an adults-only infinity pool right by the beach. Lounging here, especially with a drink as the sun begins to set, is pure bliss. People say it’s the best spot for sunsets, and I can confirm they are absolutely spectacular, painting the sky with vibrant colors.
Fitness and Excursions
The gym is surprisingly well-equipped for its size, offering enough to get a solid workout in. For a true adventure, I highly recommend the whale shark excursion. While we didn’t spot any whale sharks on my particular trip, we were incredibly lucky to swim with a large group of manta rays – an unforgettable experience. The crew provided breakfast and snacks on board, and the tour included swimming at a beautiful, deserted island teeming with colorful fish. It was a fantastic way to explore the ocean.
Even if you’re not a strong swimmer, like myself at first when encountering the manta rays, the shallower, warmer waters later in the trip were much more comfortable for snorkeling. It’s a great way to get up close with the incredible marine life.
Spa and Water Sports
A visit to the spa is a must! If you choose the Premium All-Inclusive Signature package, you get a $100 credit per adult, which makes indulging in a massage even more appealing. I opted for a foot reflexology treatment that left me feeling completely rejuvenated. For those who love to be active, non-motorized water sports like paddleboarding and snorkeling are included. For a bit more thrill, activities like waterskiing are available at an extra cost. I gave waterskiing a try, and while it was challenging, it was a lot of fun!
My Grand Beach Villa Experience
For my final days, I had the pleasure of staying in a Grand Beach Villa with its own private pool. These villas are quite special, offering a wonderful sense of privacy and luxury.
Villa Interior and Amenities
The villa is spacious, with a magnificent king-sized bed that faces the ocean, offering breathtaking views right from the moment you wake up. The high ceilings add to the airy, expansive feel. It was perfect for relaxation. The large wardrobe was well-stocked with everything one might need, including robes and an iron. As I was on an all-inclusive package, the minibar was restocked daily and included a variety of drinks and snacks, plus complimentary still water in eco-friendly glass bottles – a lovely touch.
Outdoor Living and Private Pool
The highlight for me was the outdoor bathroom and private pool area. It felt like a secluded oasis, offering complete privacy. The pool was a perfect size for a refreshing dip whenever I pleased. It’s the kind of space that’s ideal for a romantic escape, allowing for total seclusion. The villa also featured a beautiful bathtub and a lovely rain shower. It was a truly luxurious space to unwind and recharge.
Culinary Delights at Iru Veli
Sun Siyam Iru Veli offers a fantastic array of dining options scattered across the island, each with its own unique atmosphere and menu. There are six distinct venues to explore.
Aqua Orange: Buffet Variety
This is the resort’s main buffet restaurant. It offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with an incredible variety to suit every palate. I particularly loved the breakfast spread, which included both international favorites and local Maldivian and South Asian dishes. Trying local specialties like Maldivian reef fish curry or kulhi mas (a spicy tuna dish) was a great way to experience the local flavors. The evenings at Aqua Orange feature live cooking stations, adding to the dining experience. The dessert section was also a treat, with unique sweet creations.
Chemistry Bar: Casual Refreshments
Open throughout the day, the Chemistry Bar is a relaxed spot. For those on the all-inclusive plan, there are complimentary afternoon snacks available, which are a delightful addition to a lazy afternoon.
Grouper Grill: Seaside Seafood
This beachfront restaurant offers a romantic setting, especially for dinner. Dining with your feet in the sand, listening to the waves, and enjoying freshly grilled seafood is an experience I highly recommend. The beach barbecue nights here are a true highlight.
Roma: Overwater Italian Experience
For a taste of Italy, Roma is the resort’s overwater restaurant. It’s a beautiful setting, especially in the evening when you can see the marine life swimming below the illuminated water. The pasta dishes here are simply divine.
Special Dining Experiences
For those picture-perfect moments, the resort offers floating breakfasts in your private pool, and charming beach breakfast setups. These are wonderful ways to start the day with a touch of indulgence. I personally found the beach breakfast to be a more relaxed and authentic experience, though both were incredibly special.
Exceptional Service and Hospitality
What truly elevates the experience at Sun Siyam Iru Veli is the staff. From arrival to departure, the team was consistently warm, friendly, and attentive. They seemed genuinely happy to be there and dedicated to ensuring every guest had a memorable stay. I felt incredibly well looked after throughout my time at the resort.
A special mention has to go to Naufal, my dedicated host. He went above and beyond to make sure my stay was perfect, anticipating needs and offering thoughtful touches that made a real difference. His genuine care and attention were truly appreciated.
Reflections on Iru Veli
My time at Sun Siyam Iru Veli was the perfect conclusion to my Maldivian adventure. It offered a wonderful blend of relaxation, adventure, and incredible food. I arrived with some preconceptions about all-inclusive resorts, but Iru Veli completely changed my mind. The quality and variety of the food were outstanding, and I never felt bored or limited in activities. Despite being a relatively small island, it never felt crowded, offering a sense of peace and space.
For anyone dreaming of a Maldivian getaway that balances luxury with accessibility, I can wholeheartedly recommend Sun Siyam Iru Veli. It’s a place where you can truly escape and embrace the laid-back island life. Why not let this beautiful resort be your next paradise escape?
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Sun Siyam Iru Veli a good choice for families?
Yes, Iru Veli is very family-friendly. All the villas can comfortably accommodate two adults and two children, and there’s a dedicated children’s pool available.
What are the dining package options?
You can choose from bed and breakfast, half board, full board, or a comprehensive premium all-inclusive package to suit your travel style.
How do guests reach the resort from Malé Airport?
After arriving at Malé (MLE), guests are met and guided to a seaplane transfer. The scenic flight to the resort takes about 50 minutes.
Are the seaplane transfers included in the cost?
Sometimes, particularly for longer stays, seaplane transfers might be included. If not, they are an additional cost as mentioned in the booking details.
What water sports can I enjoy?
Complimentary non-motorized water sports like snorkeling and paddleboarding are offered. For more adventurous activities, there are options like waterskiing available for an extra charge.
What can you tell me about the spa services?
The resort spa offers a tranquil setting for various treatments. The Premium All-Inclusive Signature package includes a spa credit, making it a worthwhile indulgence.
Do the villas have private pools?
Yes, many villa categories, including the Grand Beach Villa, feature private pools, offering a secluded and luxurious experience for guests.
Besides the buffet, what other dining venues are there?
The resort boasts several other dining options, including an adults-only pool bar, a beachfront seafood grill, an overwater Italian restaurant, and a wine bar, providing diverse culinary experiences.
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