The Maldives is a sought-after paradise for all types of travelers—sun-worshippers, spa lovers, and adventure-seekers, to name a few. Indulge in your private paradise in this archipelago, complete with powder-white sand and crystal blue waters. 

Among its portfolio of seductive escapes include The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands, and The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort, both of which meet the standards of the most discerning luxury travelers. Find out which 5-star stay is more suitable for you in this The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands vs St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort comparison.

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Quick Glance: The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands vs St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort

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The Details: The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands vs St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort

The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands

The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands. Image Credit: The Ritz-Carlton

Known for its 5-star comforts, service, and amenities, The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands offers a seamless fusion of adventure and relaxation. It offers guests a taste of modern waterfront luxury with a minimalist approach.

Location

The Ritz-Carlton Maldives is located at Fari Islands, known as “Maldives 2.0.” It consists of three independent resorts connected by a lagoon. Guests from each area can freely explore the other parts. 

The resort is about 45 miles away from the nearest airport, Velana International Airport (MLE). Guests can arrange shared or private seaplane or speedboat services from the airport. Speedboat transfers take about 45 minutes, while seaplane transfers are a much faster option at only 10 minutes.

Room

All of the rooms in The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands are spacious overwater villas. The standard villa boasts over 1,600 square feet of space!

Choose between an Ocean, Lagoon, or Beach Pool Villa, where you can experience this unspoiled beauty of the Maldives from the comforts of your integrated infinity pool and breezy sun deck. Those staying in the Beach Pool Villas enjoy direct access to the Uthuru Sunset Beach.

All villas come with an oversized king bed, separate bathtub and shower room with rain shower head, modern design wall-to-wall glass doors, large marble soaking tub, high-speed Wi-Fi, flat-screen LCD TV with streaming services and satellite channels, BOSE audio speaker, complimentary snacks, non-alcoholic drinks, coffee, tea, and mineral water. Complimentary bicycles are also provided for guests.

Further enhancing the experience are the luxury touches from designer brands—Frette linens and Bamford bathroom amenities included. There is also a complimentary pressing service for up to eight pieces for your wardrobe.

The Sunset Beach Pool Villa boasts all lagoon, beach, and sunset views, while the Two-Bedroom Water or Beach Pool Villas come outfitted with expansive indoor and outdoor living spaces. The beachfront Sunset Two Bedroom Beach Pool Villa has a private pool and scenic views.

The Ritz-Carlton Estate is the priciest and swankiest accommodation. This private beach residence is the ideal stay for large family or friends, as it comes complete with a secluded cove, beach, and lounge access. Lounge at the estate’s outdoor pool, get your favorite massage done at the spa room and dine to your heart’s content in the kitchen. Guests staying here also get the exclusive service of a private chef and dedicated butler.

Amenities

Venture outside of your villa and take a dip in their spectacular outdoor infinity-edge pool or at the pristine beach. For those craving a bit of adventure, there is a wide array of activities for all ages available in the resort: surfing, fishing, kayaking, standup paddleboarding, volleyball, waterskiing, snorkeling, tennis, and an array of other choices.

Of course, nothing completes a Maldives getaway than spoiling yourself with the most blissful beach indulgence: a trip to the spa. The Ritz-Carlton Spa does precisely that. Spa treatments are island-inspired. Even better, guests are treated with an organic body and skincare collection by Bamford.

This ring-shaped sanctuary is decked with nine treatment rooms, including a spa suite with a relaxation area. The treatment room names are inspired by the philosophy of Yin and Yang energy. Choose from a curated menu of signature massages, body wraps, facial treatments, and more. A salon is also available for all your beauty needs.

The Ritz Kids offers activity-packed programs to keep the little ones (age 4-12) preoccupied. The activity center is a futuristic indoor-outdoor space with napping pods, video games and movies, and a pool.

Your ocean adventure in the Maldives can start from the dive center, where you can choose from various watersports and underwater activities. For relaxation-seeking family and friends, there are private boat charters available. Those wanting an educational yet enriching experience can partake in the Marine Biology program or a rewarding conservation program in partnership with Jean-Michel Cousteau’s Ambassadors of the Environment program.

Exercise anytime you want at their 24-hour fitness center with state-of-the-art Fitness Elevation equipment. A yoga studio, sauna, and steam room are also available to use. Their fitness instructors are present to help you stay active while embracing the island life.

Shutterfish is the resort’s photography studio where guests can take portrait lessons and workshops to improve their photography skills. The Art Collection is also where a selection of art pieces, paintings, and murals from international and local talent can be found.

Venture out to the nearby Fari Marina Village to shop in luxury designer shops, experience fine dining, and attend workshops on arts and culture. 

Food and Dining

The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands – Eau Bar. Image Credit: The Ritz-Carlton

The resort is home to several restaurants and bars that hone on global flavors. Overwater stunner, Summer Pavilion is a Chinese restaurant where modern Cantonese food is served. Sample Japanese fare with an exquisite selection of sake, whiskies, and teas at Eau Bar.

Enjoy afternoon tea at La Locanda, famously known as the resort’s “living room.” Fresh coffee and a library set a warm invitation for guests to relax in peace. The family-friendly Beach Shack is perfect for those looking for a livelier dining space. Dishes are often served family-style with DJ music and themed events taking place.

There are more dining spots in the Fara Marina area. Try Lebanese and North Indian street fare at Arabesque. This Bedouin tent-inspired space is also where you can enjoy cocktails and hookah. Dine at Tum Tum if you are craving Asian cuisine since this is the place that serves noodles, dim sum, bao buns, and more.

This fantastic resort also arranges private diving events and culinary experiences if you want to take it up a notch. This can include a lobster dinner at a secluded beachfront dining spot, a landbank, or even under the 30-meter Banyan Tree.

Staff and Guest Services

The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands treats each guest with a distinguished butler. Expect professional and world-class service from their staff, who will greet you by your name and with their hand over their heart as a friendly gesture. Their nightly turndown and daily housekeeping service also add personal touches to their guests, such as leaving a special treat or note in your room.

Price

Booking an entry-point room during the off-peak season can start at $1,500 per night and up to $2,470 per night during the regular season. During peak season, prices can go up to $4,410 per night.

Points Redemption

You can redeem 70,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night during off-peak dates, 85,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night during standard dates, and 100,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night during peak dates.

Who Is It For?

Whether you’re a newcomer or seasoned vacationer in the Maldives, The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands will certainly not disappoint.

Those longing for luxuriating in privacy will fall in love with the property’s overwater villas.

It’s certainly a plus that even the entry-point overwater villa is spacious and has its pool.

The villas have an impressive vantage point, whether you prefer lagoon, beach, or ocean views.

Make a reservation

The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands Gallery

The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands – The Ritz Carlton Spa. Image Credit: The Ritz-Carlton

The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands – Beach Shack. Image Credit: The Ritz-Carlton

The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands – Ocean Pool Villa. Image Credit: The Ritz-Carlton

St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort

Built on nine hectares of a private island along the Indian Ocean, this 5-star resort is a gateway to a powdery white sand beach, lush rainforests, and turquoise lagoons. St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort seamlessly blends breathtaking surroundings with stunning design.

St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort. Image Credit: Marriott

Location

St. Regis Maldives Vommuli is a 45-minute seaplane ride away from the nearest airport, Velana International Airport (MLE). Located in Vommuli Island Dhaalu Atoll, this resort is just one of 200 inhabited islands in the 26 atolls of the Maldives. 

Guests can opt for yacht transfers via their Azimut luxury yacht, NORMA. Transfers to and from the airport plus getting around to the other resorts in the Maldives are available, but reservations are required.

Room

There are 77 rooms, including 44 overwater villas and 33 on the beach. Relish the uninterrupted views of the spectacular Indian Ocean or lush tropical greenery.

The entry-point villa at St. Regis Maldives is the 1-Bedroom Garden Villa that comes with a private pool and garden, a king-sized bed, and a sofa bed. Its outdoor terrace is beautifully appointed with a day bed, sun loungers, floor-to-ceiling glass doors, and a wooden gazebo with a swing so you can unwind in utmost privacy. Airy, natural light is matched with contemporary designs to make you feel right at home.

All accommodations come with a state-of-the-art Bang & Olufsen noise system, a BeoVision entertainment system, premium movie channels, international cable/satellite, Netflix, iPad room controls, complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi, a wine cooler with a curated selection of wines, a spacious walk-in wardrobe, and electric drapes and shades.

Upgrade to one of their overwater villas, and you’ll have unobstructed, floor-to-ceiling views of the Indian Ocean. Choose among the 1-Bedroom and 2-Bedroom Sunset Overwater Villa and the Overwater St. Regis Suite.

The beach villas overlook breathtaking views of the pristine white-sand beaches, spacious outdoor-indoor living, elegant fixtures, and a private pool. Upgrades to the 1-bedroom Beach Villa include the 2-bedroom Knickerbocker Villa, Cesar Balsa, and 3-bedroom Caroline Astor Estate.

Named after the founder, the John Jacob Astor Estate is the presidential villa of the resort. Indulge in luxury, complete with a 990 square-foot infinity pool, a jacuzzi and two plunge pools, a fully furnished kitchen, a private gym, a cinema room, and spa suites for each of the three bedrooms. It also comes with the service of personal Regis Butlers to ensure your requests are fulfilled, day or night.

Amenities

The pristine beach is dotted with loungers where you can sunbathe peacefully. Take a dip in any of the resort’s premier swimming pools, including an outdoor infinity pool, children’s pool, and whirlpool. Complimentary towels and beach service, such as casual poolside dining, are also offered.

Thrill-seekers can indulge in complimentary water sports such as stand-up paddling, canoeing, and catamaran sailing. The Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI) recognizes that the Vommuli Dive & Water Sports Centre allows guests to take courses or avail of different scuba packages.

Private boat charters, including parasailing, speed boat, catamaran, a private dhoni cruise (traditional fishing boat), and luxury yacht, can also be arranged if you want to venture out a bit further.

Pamper yourself with the relaxation at St. Regis Iridium Spa. From the outside, it is known for its impressive crustacean-inspired architectural design. The resort’s luxury spa is where you can choose from ayurvedic treatments, body scrubs, and massages to release stress and tension. While you’re there, take a relaxing dip at the hydrotherapy Blue Hole Pool. It is also one of the most expansive Maldives, boasting magnificent ocean views.

For yoginis, deepen your practice at The Yoga & Meditation Studio. Both group and private classes are available here. Anti-yoga gravity is a full-body training exercise that is suspended in the air with a hammock.

Stay active throughout your Maldives vacation at one of their two 24-hour fitness centers that are fully equipped with cardio and strength Technogym equipment. Afterward, head to their sauna and steam room session to help you unwind. Or, play tennis on their outdoor court that’s nestled in lush native plants and island palm trees.

Traveling with children? St. Regis Maldives Vommuli also tailors their butler service for your little ones too. Unique welcome amenities and turndown rituals, including delectable treats, child-sized robes, slippers, are provided for them.

They also have the Children’s Club, suited for kids aged 4-12. Here, they can enjoy plenty of games, an outdoor playground, a movie center, and more. The activities include painting, yoga classes, nature hunt, Zumba mania, and kite making.

Socialite is catered to those age 11 and above, where they can participate in a program of activities. A game zone, located in the heart of the jungle, is where weekly competitions are often held. Other weekly activities include air hockey, table tennis, billiards, and more.

Food and Dining

St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort The Whale Bar. Image Credit: Marriott

St. Regis Maldives Vommuli has six restaurants and bars in total. Their restaurants span several cuisines for gastronomes to enjoy.

The family-friendly pizzeria Crust & Craft is where you can customize your pizza and enjoy everyday classics such as burgers. Enjoy tapas and cocktails with sunset views at Whale Bar overwater lounge. Cargo is their pop-up restaurant where gourmet Middle Eastern fare is served. The ALBA is their alfresco Italian restaurant that serves modern interpretations of the cuisine with locally sourced ingredients.

The open-air Orientale has a sushi bar and seasonal pan Asian cuisine. For a more refined dining experience, Decanter is their underground Continental restaurant where 5-course dinners are paired with vintage. All of the meals here are exquisitely prepared by their executive chef and head sommelier. 

Exclusive dining experiences can also be arranged. From private island picnics to sunset dining aboard their luxurious yacht, guests can easily create unforgettable memories at this resort.

Staff and Guest Services

The St. Regis Butler Service is guaranteed here, a treasured hallmark of the St. Regis experience. Guests will enjoy the careful and highly experienced attention of a personal butler. Your St. Regis Butler is there to cater to your every need, no matter how small they may seem during your vacation. 

St. Regis butlers can recommend customized recreational activities based on your preferences, even as curated books for nighttime reading as part of their luxury perks. They offer services such as unpacking and packing, beverage, and garments.

Price

Rooms start at $2,420 per night during off-peak season. On peak season, it can go up to $7,760 per night. The average season rate is around $3,140.

Points Redemption

Just like at the Ritz-Carlton Maldives, you can redeem stays here using your Marriott Bonvoy points. It costs 70,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night during off-peak dates, 85,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night during standard dates, and 100,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night during peak dates.

Who Is It For?

St. Regis Vommuli Maldives is the type of resort where your days can be filled with adventure in the form of diving and water sports, or where you can do absolutely nothing and still have one of the best vacations of your life. If traveling with children, you’ll be delighted to know that they have kid-friendly amenities and offer tailored services and activities for them to enjoy as well.

Make a reservation

St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Gallery

St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort Ocean Villa. Image Credit: Marriott

St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort Beach. Image Credit: Marriott

St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Overwater Villa. Image Credit: Marriott

Best For: Which Resort Should You Go For?

Wrapping Up

The Maldives continues to be a sought-after luxury destination, and high-end resorts like The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands and St. Regis Maldives Vommuli prove that it’s well worth it. Their breathtaking island surroundings, personalized butler service, and top-tier amenities make it a 5-star tropical paradise.

The Maldives is the picture-perfect destination of white sand beaches and turquoise waters, so staying in an overwater villa is the best way to experience it. In terms of getting the best value for your points, The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands has the better edge since the standard room is already an overwater villa while the standard room in St. Regis Maldives is a garden villa.

So if you think it’s time to visit or return to the Maldives finally, now’s the perfect time to start planning!