Frequently Asked Questions

Soneva

What is Soneva’s philosophy?

Founded in 1995, Soneva is an award-winning sustainable luxury resorts operator. At Soneva, true ‘luxury’ is defined by peace, time and space. Guests discover the SLOW LIFE, reconnecting with themselves and the natural world through rare, unforgettable experiences.

What taxes and service charges do I pay Are Soneva resorts eco-friendly?

Soneva has always been a pioneer for responsible tourism, combining sustainability with exquisite luxury and intuitive, personalised service. Carbon neutral since 2012, Soneva launched its Total Impact Assessment to measure its social and environmental impact in 2016 – a first for the hospitality industry. A 2% environmental levy is also added to every Soneva stay, with proceeds going towards the not-for-profit Soneva Foundation to offset carbon emissions and fund purposeful international projects.

How many Soneva resorts are there?

Soneva’s portfolio includes Soneva Fushi and Soneva Jani in the Maldives, as well as the two-bedroom Soneva in Aqua yacht, and Soneva Kiri in Thailand. Soneva presents memorable island escapes, spectacular eco-friendly accommodation including oceanview suites, beachfront bungalows and over-water villas, and an incomparable array of rare, unique experiences.

I am interested in joining Soneva. Where do I find information on career opportunities?

Please visit the Careers section to view all our current vacancies.

How can I make a reservation at Soneva?

Every stay at Soneva is tailored to include exceptional bespoke experiences, gourmet dining and nature-inspired discovery. To plan your next dream holiday in the Maldives, e-mail [email protected] or call +960 660 4300. For Soneva Kiri in Thailand, email [email protected] or call +660 82 208 8888.

What are the check-in and check-out times?

Guests can check-in from 14:00 and check-out until 12 noon.

What is included at Soneva?

Guests staying at Soneva benefit from 24/7 Barefoot Guardian service, a welcome drink and amenities at their villa. There’s also daily complimentary access to non-motorised watersports, the resort’s chocolate, ice cream, and cheese and charcuterie parlours, and The Den children’s zones. Guests can also indulge in an array of complimentary experiences, including weekly sunset cocktails, movie screenings at outdoor cinemas and more. Your Barefoot Guardian can share what’s available during your stay.

Can I book an all-inclusive stay?

Soneva Unlimited is the ultimate all-inclusive package. Enjoy everything our resorts have to offer, including unlimited meals and drinks across our restaurants and bars as well as exclusive dinners hosted by Michelin-starred guest chefs; endless experiences ranging from water sports and diving to discovery tours; limitless massages at our luxury spa, plus sessions with visiting and resident wellness specialists and so much more. For more information on Soneva Unlimited, click here.

Does Soneva have any exclusive offers?

Soneva presents a range of signature offers and promotions for every occasion, including family-friendly packages, romantic getaways and spa retreats. Discover our latest offers here.

Can I book tours and excursions through Soneva?

Our resorts invite guests to enjoy memorable island escapes and reconnect in nature with a variety of discovery tours, including underwater adventures such as guided snorkelling and diving, private island picnics, astronomy cruises and more. For a full list of all the experiences available at our resorts, click here.

Are there any special events at Soneva?

There’s always something exciting happening at our resorts in the Maldives and Thailand, thanks to the year-round Soneva Stars programme. It sees visiting experts such as top chefs from Michelin-starred restaurants, sporting legends and acclaimed therapists present an array of unique guest activities and experiences. See what’s on during your stay.

We also host regular festivals and seasonal celebrations, ensuring no visit to Soneva is ever quite the same.

Soneva Fushi

What taxes and service charges do I pay?

Tax on villas at Soneva Fushi stands at 29.92%. This is based on your room rate, and includes a 10% Service Charge, 2% Carbon Offset Tax, and 16% Goods and Services Tax. There is an additional USD 6 per person per night Green Tax for food and beverages, transfers and other resort facilities, such as the spa.

Where is Soneva Fushi located?

Soneva Fushi is located on the private island of Kunfunadhoo in the Baa Atoll, a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve in the Maldives. At 1,400 by 400 metres, it is one of the Maldives’ largest island resorts.

What is Soneva Fushi time?

At Soneva Fushi, we set our clocks forward by one hour ahead of Malé time so that our guests can enjoy more daylight hours. Malé time is UTC +5. During Ramadan, the clocks at Soneva Fushi shift back to Malé time.

When is the best time to visit?

The Maldives is an all-season destination, with a tropical climate, sunshine-filled days and temperatures averaging 30°C all year round. Diving is good at any time of the year, however the monsoon season (May-October) is the best season for manta rays and other marine life due to the higher quantities of plankton.

Will I need any vaccinations?

Vaccinations are only required for visitors travelling to the Maldives from a region where yellow fever and cholera are endemic. For all other guests, no vaccinations are needed.

Is there a doctor on site?

We have a resort nurse available 24/7 at Soneva Fushi. The nearest medical clinic is on the neighbouring island of Eydhafushi, which is less than 10 minutes away by speedboat. For conditions requiring further medical attention, there is a hospital in Malé.

What airport should I fly to?

You can fly into Velana International Airport in Malé, the capital of the Maldives.

What happens when I arrive at Velana International Airport?

Upon exiting the doors after luggage collection, you will be met by Soneva’s Airport Representative holding a sign with ‘Soneva’. They will escort you to either the lounge or the seaplane/domestic terminal for departure.

Can I land my private jet at the local airport?

Yes, but you will need prior authorisation before entering the Maldives, which can be arranged through a jet handler in Malé. The length of the runway at our local airport on Dharavandoo island is 1,200 metres, which is long enough to accommodate most medium-sized jets.

Are there CIP services at Velana International Airport?

We offer complimentary CIP services to all guests spending a minimum of USD 12,500 per person, per stay on their room at Soneva Fushi or Soneva Jani (room rate only, other services not included). Accompanying children will also receive complimentary CIP services.

Can I leave luggage in the Soneva Lounge?

There are no storage facilities at the Soneva Lounge, however there are secure locker facilities at the International Airport. Lockers can be rented for less than USD 10 per day. This can be arranged upon arrival at the airport. Please ask Soneva’s airport representative for assistance.

How do I get to Soneva Fushi from Malé?

Transfers are arranged by our Reservations Team, and flights can also be arranged via our website booking engine. There are two ways to reach Soneva Fushi from Malé: a seaplane from Malé International Airport direct to Soneva Fushi (recommended), or a domestic flight from Malé International Airport to Dharavandhoo Airport, followed by a 12-minute speedboat ride to Soneva Fushi.

Both flights take approximately 30 to 40 minutes, however the prices are different. The seaplane only operates during the day, with the last flight leaving at 17H00. The last domestic flight to Dharavandhoo Airport is at 23H15.

All guests who have pre-booked and paid for the Soneva Seaplane, but instead transfer from or to Malé on the Manta Air seaplane, will receive a resort credit as compensation, valued at USD 150 NET per person per voyage during peak season, and USD 100 NET per person per voyage during shoulder season. The resort credit can be redeemed against food and beverages, experiences and Soneva Soul treatments, excluding third parties and retail outlets.

Why does the seaplane only fly during the day?

As seaplanes land on and take off from water, they will only fly from sunrise to sunset.

When arriving into the Maldives, please plan to arrive at Malé by 15H30 local time if you would like to reach Soneva Fushi by seaplane on the same day. If you are unable to arrive by that time, you can spend the night in Malé or take an internal flight to the nearby Dharavandhoo Airport and arrive at the resort by speedboat.

For guests departing from Soneva Fushi, seaplane flights can be arranged for international flights scheduled for a departure time after 09H00 until approximately 16H30.

At what altitude does the seaplane fly? The seaplane flies at an altitude between 2,100 to 6,500 feet. This varies with different payloads and the number of people on each flight.

What happens if I arrive in Malé late at night?

The last domestic flight from Malé to Dharavandhoo Airport is at 23H15. If you arrive too late to make this connection, you can arrange an overnight stay at either the Hulhule Island Hotel at the airport or Hotel Jen Malé. The first seaplane of the following day will depart for Soneva Fushi at 09H00. Our airport representative will meet you upon your arrival and assist you with any transfers.

What is the baggage allowance on the seaplane?

The standard weight is 25 kg per person, including hand luggage. If you have more luggage, please let our Reservations Team know in advance. There is no baggage allowance for infants under two on the seaplane.

Do infants require their own seat?

Transfers for infants below the age of two are free of charge. Due to legal safety requirements, there is no separate seat allocation for infants under two on the seaplane.

Can I charter a private seaplane?

Yes, we offer a private seaplane charter. The cost of a private charter on Soneva Seaplane (9 seats) is USD 9,350 per one way trip, which includes a CIP service.

Manta Air also offers a regular 14 seat charter, including CIP services, at USD 6,750 per one way trip. All prices include taxes.

Can I arrange a speedboat transfer direct from Malé to Soneva Fushi?

We advise against speedboat transfers from Malé – the journey takes approximately 2.5 hours by sea, and can be rough.

What are the speedboat transfer fees from other resorts?

Speedboat transfers can be arranged from the following resorts at an additional cost, plus 23.2% tax.

Baa Atoll, Royal Island Resort (3.2 NM, 7 mins) US$ 175 Baa Atoll, Dusit Thani (6.2 NM, 15 mins) US$ 225 Baa Atoll, Reethi Beach (10 NM, 25 mins) US$ 325 Baa Atoll, Four Seasons Landaa Giraavaru (11.4 NM, 30 mins) US$ 350 Baa Atoll, Anantara Kihaavah Villas (11 NM, 30 mins) US$ 375 Kaafu Atoll, One&Only Reethi Rah (39.5 NM, 1 hr 30 mins) US$ 1,100 Kaafu Atoll, Malé (62 NM, 2 hrs) US$ 1,600 Noonu Atoll, Cheval Blanc Randheli (38.9 NM, 1 hr 20 mins) US$ 1,100

For other resorts, guests will need to return to Malé International Airport and arrange seaplane transfers directly from there.

The prices listed are for indication only and are liable to change. Please check with our Reservations team before you book.

What happens on departure from Soneva Fushi?

The exact timing for your departure will be communicated to you by your Barefoot Guardian on the evening of departure. Your luggage will be collected and you will be presented with your final bill for signing approximately one hour before you depart. Our transfer team will ensures that all guests reach Malé International Airport on time for their connecting flights.

What should I pack?

At Soneva, we believe in travelling light. Don’t get weighed down with non-essentials by following our useful packing guide:

1. Leave your heels at home – our ‘no news, no shoes’ policy not only lets you feel the sand between your toes, but also means your suitcases will be considerably lighter.

2. Keep it casual. Take your cue from our laid-back vibe and dress accordingly.

3. Don’t bother with heavy clothes – our enviable climate is temperate all year round, so the most you’ll need is a light wrap or shawl. And if it does rain, simply borrow one of our rain coats or umbrellas.

4. There’s no need to bring bottles of mosquito repellent with your toiletries – we have both mosquito coils and lotion in all of our villas.

5. Want to while away an hour or two with a great book? Visit our well-stocked pop-up bookshop from our Barefoot Bookseller and choose your favourite tome. Most of our villas also feature their own bookshelves, too.

6. Our goal is to completely eliminate the use of plastic at our properties. Please don’t bring any plastics with you (such as water bottles) – we provide our own filtered water in eco-friendly reusable glass bottles. If you must bring plastic, we politely request that you also take it home with you.

7. Please also avoid having your luggage wrapped in cellophane at your departure airport. Single-use plastics such as luggage wrap have a devastating effect on the natural environment, and we are currently campaigning to end their use in the Maldives.

8. We have professional photographers and videographers at all our resorts to help you capture that perfect moment, so you can leave heavy camera equipment at home. Please contact us at [email protected] for further details and prices.

9. For families with infants and small children, we will arrange all the essential equipment you need, such as cots and high chairs. Please refer to our pre-arrival form for more details, or contact us at [email protected].

10. If you’re travelling with children, don’t pack all of their toys and gadgets – younger guests will love The Den, our dedicated zone for kids of all ages, which includes a Lego room, dressing up room, cinema, music room, arts and crafts space and even a kitchen for kid-friendly cooking classes.

11. Need a charge? We provide adaptors in all of our villas and our electricity sockets are multi-standard to fit a wide range of plugs and chargers.

12. If you need to stay connected to the outside world, we offer complimentary WIFI at the resort. Should you wish to truly disconnect you can turn the WIFI off in your villa.

13. To chill out to your favourite soundtrack, simply connect to the Bluetooth Bose speaker system in your villa. Each villa also includes a television and DVD player.

14. Planning to stay active during your visit? We have everything you need, from yoga mats in every villa, personal bicycles and tricycles for guests of all ages, and complimentary use of non-motorised watersports equipment, including paddle boards, canoes, catamarans and windsurfs. We also have an on-site gym.

15. Tell us your favourite vintage, and we’ll stock up your walk-in mini bar or cellar before you arrive.

16. Forgotten something? Our on-site boutique has all the essentials, from natural suncreams to the latest beachwear.

Can I bring a surfboard with me?

Yes, you can. However, your board may not travel on the seaplane or domestic flight transfer, depending on the weight of the luggage. We have a wide range of eco-friendly, complimentary surf boards and other water sports equipment that are available for you to borrow, so we encourage you to leave your surfing equipment at home.

Can I bring/use my own drone?

We strongly advise against bringing drones to Soneva Fushi. Maintaining our guests’ privacy is our top priority, so drone use is completely banned in many areas of the resort (such as above guest villas). There are specific times and areas when drone use is permitted, which must be approved by our General Manager. If you would like to record drone footage, we recommend that you use our Digital Storyteller service.

What can I do at Soneva Fushi?

For our full list of experiences click here. To see our full Soneva Stars calendar of visiting chefs and experts, click here.

What activities are there for families?

The Den, our children’s zone, is a playground for the imagination. Click here for more information about The Den and its weekly programme of activities.

We also offer a wide range of one-of-a-kind experiences for the whole family.

Do you offer photography or videography services?

Yes, our Digital Storytellers can accompany you however you wish, capturing whatever memories you choose. They also offer drone photography and videography.

If you wish to book one of our Digital Storytellers, please coordinate with your Barefoot Guardian to book a time slot, or contact our Reservations Team.

What equipment is available in the gym?

Kinesis Personal Vision by Technogym
Cable Station by Technogym
Lat Machine by Technogym
Rowing Machine by Concept2
Two treadmills by Life Fitness
Elliptical by Life Fitness
A bicycle machine by Life Fitness
A power rack with bench by Technogym
Adjustable bench by Technogym
Dumbells of different weights by Technogym
Kettlebells of different weights by Technogym
Wellness tools of different types

Do you provide bicycles and helmets?

Yes, we provide complimentary bicycles and tricycles in every villa. Helmets are available on request.

Where can I eat at Soneva Fushi?

For our full list of dining destinations and experiences, please click here.

Do you cater to plant-based, vegans, vegetarians, coeliacs or people with special dietary requirements?

Yes, we have a wide range of menus to suit every dining requirement and our chefs can customise every meal according to your preferences (including vegetarian, plant-based, pescatarian, kosher and halal).

Do I need to book ahead for Soneva Fushi’s restaurants?

Tables at our restaurants are based on availability (excluding Mihiree Mithaa and Down to Earth for our Half and Full Board guests). You can book in advance via Reservations, or you can speak to your Barefoot Guardian if you want to book a specific restaurant during your stay.

Which restaurants are included in the Half and Full Board meal plans?

All meal plans include breakfast at Mihiree Mithaa. Guests can choose to have lunch or dinner at Mihiree Mithaa, Fresh in the Garden, Out of the Blue, Down To Earth, and Shades of Green as part of their Half Board / Full Board Meal plan. If the guests choose to dine at any other outlets, USD 100 will be credited for lunch per person, and USD 180 will be credited per dinner per person.

Are beverages included in the Half or Full Board meal plans?

No. All beverages, including juice, water and aerated and alcoholic drinks are charged separately.

Do you have an all-inclusive supplement?

Yes, Soneva Unlimited is priced at USD 920 per adult per night (age 15 and above) and USD 460 per child per night (age 7 to 14), inclusive of taxes and service charge. The supplement is charged in addition to nightly villa rates and is not applicable for any bonus night offers. Soneva Unlimited includes endless sumptuous feasts and inspiring cuisine with visiting Michelin-starred chefs; daily rejuvenating therapies and one-of-a-kind experiences.

Can we prepare our own food in the villa kitchens?

This can be arranged on request. Please note that not all villas have kitchens so please confirm with our Reservations Team in advance.

Can I dine at Soneva Fushi if I’m not a guest?

Yes, if you make a reservation in advance through our Reservations team at [email protected]. Transfers to and from Soneva Fushi can be arranged privately or through Soneva Fushi by prior arrangement. The only exception is for the sandbank, where we only allow resort guests to dine.

Soneva Jani

What taxes and service charges do I pay?

Tax on villas at Soneva Jani stands at 29.92%. This is based on your room rate, and includes a 10% Service Charge, 2% Carbon Offset Tax, and 16% Goods and Services Tax. There is an additional USD 6 per person per night Green Tax for food and beverages, transfers and other resort facilities, such as the spa.

Where is Soneva Jani located?

Soneva Jani is located in the Medhufaru lagoon in the Maldives’ Noonu Atoll. This small private archipelago includes the 150-acre Medhufaru Island and five islets, four of which remain untouched.

What is Soneva Jani time?

At Soneva Jani, we set our clocks forward by one hour ahead of Malé time so that our guests can enjoy more daylight hours. Malé time is UTC +5. During Ramadan, the clocks at Soneva Jani shift back to Malé time.

What is the weather like?

The Maldives’ tropical climate is influenced by monsoons – the average temperature is a balmy 30°C (86°F), and the coolest days are a pleasant 25°C (77°F). Sea temperatures are around 22 to 28°C (72 to 82°F).

In the dry season (November-April), expect clear blue skies, light sea breezes and tropical sunshine. In monsoon season (May-October), the weather can be more mixed, with sunshine, showers and occasional storms.

When is the best time to visit?

The Maldives is an all-season destination, with a tropical climate, sunshine-filled days and temperatures averaging 30°C all year round. Diving is good at any time of the year, however the monsoon season (May-October) is the best season for manta rays and other marine life due to the higher quantities of plankton.

Will I need any vaccinations?

Vaccinations are only required for visitors travelling to the Maldives from a region where yellow fever and cholera are endemic. For all other guests, no vaccinations are needed.

Is there a doctor on site?

We have a resort nurse available 24/7 at Soneva Jani. Our clinic is well equipped, with emergency equipment including a cardiac machine and defibrillators. The Manadhoo Atoll Hospital is a 10-minute speedboat ride away, and more serious situations might require an airlift to Malé.

What Maldives airport should I fly to?

You can fly directly into Maafaru International Airport in the Noonu Atoll, which operates 24/7. It handles scheduled domestic and international flights and private charters. Located on Maafaru Island, it is just 7 ¾ nautical miles from Soneva Jani, which can be reached with a short speedboat ride. For more information, click here.

You can also fly into Velana International Airport in Malé.

How do I get to Soneva Jani from Malé?

There are two main ways to arrive at Soneva Jani: either by seaplane from Velana International Airport in Malé, or by flying direct to Maafaru International Airport in the Noonu Atoll, which operates 24/7 and handles domestic and international flights and private charters.

When travelling through Velana International Airport, the Soneva experience begins from the moment you arrive. You will be greeted by a Soneva Representative holding a sign saying “Soneva” who will assist you with your local transfers.* To reach Soneva Jani from Malé, you can take a 45-minute private seaplane from Malé International Airport direct to the resort.

There are two seaplane choices available: either the Soneva seaplane or the Manta Air seaplane. The Soneva seaplane is private and more comfortable, while the Manta Air seaplane carries slightly more passengers and may stop en-route at other destinations before arriving at Soneva Jani. Please be aware that the Soneva seaplane is operated by Manta Air, so we are bound by their timings and regulations.

When arriving at Maafaru International Airport, your personal Barefoot Guardian will meet and greet you from your flight, assisting with immigration and customs to ensure that your journey is as fast and seamless as possible. We provide a complimentary private speedboat service between Maafaru Airport and Soneva Jani, with a transfer time of just 15 minutes.

All guests who have pre-booked and paid for the Soneva Seaplane, but instead transfer from or to Malé on the Manta Air seaplane, will receive a resort credit as compensation, valued at USD 150 NET per person per voyage during peak season, and USD 100 NET per person per voyage during shoulder season. The resort credit can be redeemed against food and beverages, experiences and Soneva Soul treatments, excluding third parties and retail outlets.

What happens when I arrive at Velana International Airport?

Upon exiting the doors after luggage collection, you will be met by Soneva’s Airport Representative holding a sign with ‘Soneva’. They will escort you to either the lounge or the seaplane/domestic terminal for departure.

Are there CIP services at Velana International Airport?

We offer complimentary CIP services to all guests spending a minimum of USD 12,500 per person, per stay on their room at Soneva Fushi or Soneva Jani (room rate only, other services not included). Accompanying children will also receive complimentary CIP services.

Can I leave luggage in the Soneva Lounge?

There are no storage facilities at the Soneva Lounge, however there are secure locker facilities at the International Airport. Lockers can be rented for less than USD 10 per day. This can be arranged upon arrival at the airport. Please ask Soneva’s airport representative for assistance.

Why does the seaplane only fly during the day?

As seaplanes land on and take off from water, they will only fly from sunrise to sunset.

When arriving into the Maldives, please plan to arrive at Malé by 15H30 local time if you would like to reach Soneva Jani by seaplane on the same day. If you are unable to arrive by that time, you can spend the night in Malé. It is also possible to take a domestic flight to our sister resort Soneva Fushi, stay there overnight and transfer across to Soneva Jani by speedboat the next morning (a 60-minute approx. speedboat ride).

For guests departing from Soneva Jani, seaplane flights can be arranged for international flights scheduled for a departure time between the hours of 09H00 until approximately 16H00.

At what altitude does the seaplane fly?

The seaplane flies at an altitude between 2,100 to 6,500 feet. This varies with different payloads and the number of people on each flight.

What happens if I arrive in Malé late at night?

If you arrive outside of the seaplane’s flight schedule, you can arrange an overnight stay at either the Hulhule Island Hotel at the airport or Hotel Jen Malé. The first seaplane of the following day will depart for Soneva Jani at 09H00. Our airport representative will meet you upon your arrival and assist you with any transfers.

For late arrivals, it is also possible to stay overnight at Soneva Fushi, our sister resort. The last domestic flight from Malé to Dharavandhoo Airport (which is the local airport island near Soneva Fushi) is at 23H15.

What is the baggage allowance on the seaplane?

The standard weight is 25 kg per person, including hand luggage. If you have more luggage, please let our Reservations Team know in advance. There is no baggage allowance for infants under two on the seaplane.

Do infants require their own seat?

Transfers for infants below the age of two are free of charge. Due to legal safety requirements, there is no separate seat allocation for infants under two on the seaplane.

Can I charter a private seaplane?

Yes, we offer a private seaplane charter. The cost of a private charter on Soneva Seaplane (9 seats) is USD 9,350 per one way trip, which includes a CIP service.

Manta Air also offers a regular 14 seat charter, including CIP services, at USD 6,750 per one way trip. All prices include taxes.

Can I arrange a speedboat transfer direct from Malé to Soneva Jani?

We advise against speedboat transfers from Malé – the journey takes approximately 3.5-4 hours by sea, and can be rough.

If you are travelling from our sister resort, Soneva Fushi, we offer a complimentary speedboat transfer which takes approximately 60 minutes.

How do I get to Soneva Jani from Soneva Fushi?

We offer complimentary transfers by speedboat between Soneva Fushi and Soneva Jani. The journey takes approximately 60 minutes. At an additional charge, you can sail between the two resorts on our private yacht, Soneva in Aqua, which takes around four to five hours. We recommend that this is booked as part of a two-day/one-night excursion. For more information, please contact our Reservations Team.

What happens on departure from Soneva Jani?

The exact timing for your departure will be communicated to you by your Barefoot Butler on the evening of departure. Your luggage will be collected and you will be presented with your final bill for signing approximately one hour before you depart. Our transfer team will ensures that all guests reach Malé International Airport on time for their connecting flights.

What should I pack?

At Soneva, we believe in travelling light. Don’t get weighed down with non-essentials by following our useful packing guide:

1. Leave your heels at home – our ‘no news, no shoes’ policy not only lets you feel the sand between your toes, but also means your suitcases will be considerably lighter.

2. Keep it casual. Take your cue from our laid-back vibe and dress accordingly.

3. Don’t bother with heavy clothes – our enviable climate is temperate all year round, so the most you’ll need is a light wrap or shawl. And if it does rain, simply borrow one of our rain coats or umbrellas.

4. There’s no need to bring bottles of mosquito repellent with your toiletries – we have both mosquito coils and lotion in all of our villas.

5. Want to while away an hour or two with a great book? Visit our well-stocked pop-up bookshop from our Barefoot Bookseller and choose your favourite tome. Most of our villas also feature their own bookshelves, too.

6. Our goal is to completely eliminate the use of plastic at our properties. Please don’t bring any plastics with you (such as water bottles) – we provide our own filtered water in eco-friendly reusable glass bottles. If you must bring plastic, we politely request that you also take it home with you.

7. Please also avoid having your luggage wrapped in cellophane at your departure airport. Single-use plastics such as luggage wrap have a devastating effect on the natural environment, and we are currently campaigning to end their use in the Maldives.

8. We have professional photographers and videographers at all our resorts to help you capture that perfect moment, so you can leave heavy camera equipment at home. Please contact us at [email protected] for further details and prices.

9. For families with infants and small children, we will arrange all the essential equipment you need, such as cots and high chairs. Please refer to our pre-arrival form for more details, or contact us at [email protected].

10. If you’re travelling with children, don’t pack all of their toys and gadgets – younger guests will love The Den, our dedicated zone for kids of all ages, which includes a Lego room, dressing up room, cinema, music room, arts and crafts space and even a kitchen for kid-friendly cooking classes.

11. Need a charge? We provide adaptors in all of our villas and our electricity sockets are multi-standard to fit a wide range of plugs and chargers.

12. If you need to stay connected to the outside world, we offer complimentary WIFI at the resort. Should you wish to truly disconnect you can turn the WIFI off in your villa.

13. To chill out to your favourite soundtrack, simply connect to the Bluetooth Bose speaker system in your villa. Each villa also includes a television and DVD player.

14. Planning to stay active during your visit? We have everything you need, from yoga mats in every villa, personal bicycles and tricycles for guests of all ages, and complimentary use of non-motorised watersports equipment, including paddle boards, canoes, catamarans and windsurfs. We also have an on-site gym.

15. Tell us your favourite vintage, and we’ll stock up your walk-in mini bar or cellar before you arrive.

16. Forgotten something? Our on-site boutique has all the essentials, from natural suncreams to the latest beachwear.

Can I bring a surfboard with me?

Yes, you can. However, your board may not travel on the seaplane or domestic flight transfer, depending on the weight of the luggage. We have a wide range of eco-friendly, complimentary surf boards and other water sports equipment that are available for you to borrow, so we encourage you to leave your surfing equipment at home.

Can I bring/use my own drone?

We strongly advise against bringing drones to Soneva Jani. Maintaining our guests’ privacy is our top priority, so drone use is completely banned in many areas of the resort (such as above guest villas). There are specific times and areas when drone use is permitted, which must be approved by our Guardian of Experience. If you would like to record drone footage, we recommend that you use our Digital Storyteller service.

What can I do at Soneva Jani?

For our full list of experiences click here. To see our full Soneva Stars calendar of visiting chefs and experts, click here.

What activities are there for families?

The Den, our children’s zone, is a playground for the imagination. Click here for more information about The Den and its weekly programme of activities.

We also offer a wide range of one-of-a-kind experiences for the whole family.

Do you offer photography or videography services?

Yes, our Digital Storytellers can accompany you however you wish, capturing whatever memories you choose. They also offer drone photography and videography.

If you wish to book one of our Digital Storytellers, please coordinate with your Barefoot Guardian to book a time slot, or contact our Reservations Team.

What equipment is available in the gym?

Our all gym equipment is from Technogym and includes:

  • Kinesis
  • Treadmills
  • Cross Trainer
  • Skill Bike
  • Skill Row
  • Multi Gym PLURIMA
  • Multi power weight rack
  • Dumbbell sets

Do you provide bicycles and helmets?

Yes, we provide complimentary bicycles and tricycles in every villa. Helmets are available on request.

Where can I eat at Soneva Jani?

For our full list of dining destinations and experiences, please click here.

Do you cater to plant-based, vegans, vegetarians, coeliacs or people with special dietary requirements?

Yes, we have a wide range of menus to suit every dining requirement and our chefs can customise every meal according to your preferences (including vegetarian, plant-based, pescatarian, kosher and halal).

Do I need to book ahead for Soneva Jani’s restaurants?

Tables at our restaurants are based on availability (excluding So Fresh for our Half and Full Board guests). You can book in advance via Reservations, or you can speak to your Barefoot Guardian if you want to book a specific restaurant during your stay.

Which restaurants are included in the Half and Full Board meal plans?

Half Board (breakfast and dinner) or Full Board (breakfast, lunch and dinner) meals are fully-inclusive at Down to Earth and So Cold for breakfast and at Down to Earth, Overseas by Mathias Dahlgren, So Wild and Director’s Cut for lunch and dinner. If you choose to dine at any of our other outlets, you will be credited with USD 100 per person for lunch, and USD 175 for dinner. Anything outside of this credit limit will be charged as a supplement as per the published rates.

Are beverages included in the Half or Full Board meal plans?

No. All beverages, including juice, water and aerated and alcoholic drinks are charged separately.

Do you have an all-inclusive supplement?

Yes, Soneva Unlimited is priced at USD 920 per adult per night (age 15 and above) and USD 460 per child per night (age 7 to 14), inclusive of taxes and service charge. The supplement is charged in addition to nightly villa rates and is not applicable for any bonus night offers. Soneva Unlimited includes endless sumptuous feasts and inspiring cuisine with visiting Michelin-starred chefs; daily rejuvenating therapies and one-of-a-kind experiences.

Can we prepare our own food in the villa kitchens?

This can be arranged on request. Please note that not all villas have kitchens so please confirm with our Reservations Team in advance.

Can I dine at Soneva Jani if I’m not a guest?

Yes, if you make a reservation in advance through our Reservations team at [email protected]. Transfers to and from Soneva Jani can be arranged privately or through Soneva Jani by prior arrangement.

Soneva Kiri

What taxes and service charges do I pay?

Tax on villas at Soneva Kiri stands at 21.7%. This is based on your room rate, and includes a 10% Service Charge, 2% Carbon Offset Tax, and 9.7% Government Taxes.

Where is Soneva Kiri located?

Soneva Kiri is located on the northern tip of the unspoiled island of Koh Kood in Thailand. The island is home to some of the best beaches in the country.

What is Soneva Kiri time?

At Soneva Kiri, we set our clocks forward by one hour ahead of Bangkok time so that our guests can enjoy more daylight hours.

What is the weather like?

While Koh Kood is an all season destination, winter is the best time to visit as the temperature is optimal. Between October to February, the island has relatively cool, dry and sunny weather. From March until the end of May the temperatures are hotter. Monsoon season is from June to September, however this is when the island’s waterfalls are at their best and the resort is extremely green and lush.

Will I need any vaccinations?

There are no recommended vaccinations needed to travel to Koh Kood. A yellow fever certificate is a must for entering Thailand for nationals from specific countries – please consult your doctor before you travel.

Is there a doctor on site?

We have a resort nurse available 24/7 at Soneva Kiri. There is also a local hospital on Koh Kood.

What Thai airport should I fly to?

You can fly into Suvarnabhumi International Airport in Bangkok, the capital of Thailand.

What happens when I arrive at Suvarnabhumi International Airport?

If you arrive on an international flight, our Host will meet you on the aerobridge. If you arrive via a domestic flight to Bangkok, you will be met at the arrivals gate. If you’re travelling direct from Bangkok, the meeting point is in the Departure Hall, at Counter K24. From there, you’ll be transferred to our waiting plane.

How do I get to Soneva Kiri from Suvarnabhumi International Airport?

Transfers to Koh Mai Si (MSI), Soneva Kiri’s Airport Island, are via Soneva Kiri’s private eight-seater Cessna 208 Caravan, that operate daily on a fixed daytime schedule. The transfer time takes approximately 90 minutes. When you arrive at Koh Mai Si, there is a five-minute speedboat ride to Soneva Kiri.

The first transfer flight departs at 06:40 and the last flight to Soneva Kiri departs at 15:40. To be able to make that flight guests should arrive in Bangkok by 13:00.

For those arriving later we can assist with booking an overnight stay in Bangkok (at your own expense). You will depart Bangkok on the first flight to Soneva Kiri the following day.

How do I arrange transfers to Soneva Kiri?

Transfers are arranged by our Reservations team. They will need to know the details of your international flights at least 72 hours in advance.

Round-trip shared flight transfers on the private Soneva plane between Bangkok and Soneva Kiri can be booked at USD 700 per adult and USD 350 per child (age 2-15).

Please note that Soneva Kiri reserves the right to make changes to your flight itinerary at any time.

Where is the check-in counter for Soneva Kiri’s transfer flight?

Soneva Kiri’s check-in counter for all transfer flights is located in the Suvarnabhumi International Airport Departure Terminal, 4th floor, Counter K24.

Please note that the check-in counter is open two hours before departure time, and check-in is 90 minutes before the flight is scheduled to depart.

The check-in counter will close 40 minutes before departure in accordance with Thai Civil Aviation’s policy. If you are arriving on an international flight, please keep a buffer of at least 120 minutes between your arrival and your departure time to Soneva Kiri. Any guests who arrive late to the check-in counter will not be allowed to board.

If I need help at the airport, who can I contact?

Our Soneva Kiri airport representatives can be contacted at 082 208 8888.

Are there lounge services for Soneva guests at Suvarnabhumi International Airport?

Yes, guests transiting from international Business or First Class flights en-route to Soneva Kiri, can use the Thai Airways “Royal Silk Lounge” (2nd Floor). This should be arranged in advance with our Reservations team.

Complimentary lounge access is not available for guests departing from Soneva Kiri to Bangkok. Lounge access is priced at THB 600 per two hours per person. Please note that this lounge is located before Immigration and security clearance.

What is the baggage allowance on the aircraft?

The standard weight is 15 kg per person, including hand luggage. If you have more luggage, please let our Reservations Team know in advance. There is no baggage allowance for infants under two on the aircraft.

Do infants require their own seat?

Transfers for infants below the age of two are free of charge. Due to legal safety requirements, there is no separate seat allocation for infants under two on the aircraft.

May I bring water or any liquids on the flight?

All liquids, gels, creams and pastes in containers of 100 ml or more are not permitted in hand luggage, and must be placed in your check-in luggage.

Are there any other ways to get to Soneva Kiri?

Yes, Soneva Kiri is accessible from Trat Province (a 5-6 hour drive or a 1-hour flight from Bangkok, charged as per airline). From Trat, you can organise a speedboat transfer from Laem Sok pier at USD 1,200 per boat each way (max. 14 persons) or by public ferry (the ferries have fixed departure times, usually before 14:00 hours). Soneva Reservations is unable to assist with booking the domestic flights or car transfers.

You can also book a Soneva Private Charter between Bangkok, Phuket, Koh Samui, Chiang Mai, Chiang rai, Hua Hin, U Tapao Pattaya and Soneva Kiri. Please contact our Reservations Team for more information.

Please note that Soneva Kiri flights are registered as private charters, exclusively for the use of guests staying at Soneva Kiri. Guests can opt to travel on Soneva Kiri’s plane to Koh Kood, stay one night with us and take the flight back to Bangkok at a later date if they wish to spend additional days at another resort on the island.

Can I land my private jet on Soneva Kiri’s airport island?

Any aircraft that is compatible with runways of 820 metres can land at Koh Mai Si. Please refer to the Koh Mai Si Airport fact sheet for more details.

What happens on departure from Soneva Kiri?

The exact timing for your departure will be communicated to you by your Barefoot Butler on the evening before departure. Your luggage will be collected and you will be presented with your final bill for signing approximately one hour before you depart. Our transfer team ensures that all Soneva guests reach Suvarnabhumi International Airport on time for connecting flights.

What should I pack?

At Soneva, we believe in travelling light. Don’t get weighed down with non-essentials by following our useful packing guide:

1. Leave your heels at home – our ‘no news, no shoes’ policy not only lets you feel the sand between your toes, but also means your suitcases will be considerably lighter.

2. Keep it casual. Take your cue from our laid-back vibe and dress accordingly.

3. Don’t bother with heavy clothes – our enviable climate is temperate all year round, so the most you’ll need is a light wrap or shawl. And if it does rain, simply borrow one of our rain coats or umbrellas.

4. There’s no need to bring bottles of mosquito repellent with your toiletries – we have both mosquito coils and lotion in all of our villas.

5. Want to while away an hour or two with a great book? Visit our well-stocked library and choose your favourite tome. Most of our villas also feature their own bookshelves, too.

6. Our goal is to completely eliminate the use of plastic at our properties. Please don’t bring any plastics with you (such as water bottles) – we provide our own filtered water in eco-friendly reusable glass bottles. If you must bring plastic, we politely request that you also take it home with you.

7. Please also avoid having your luggage wrapped in cellophane at your departure airport. Single-use plastics such as luggage wrap have a devastating effect on the natural environment, and we are currently campaigning to end their use in the Maldives.

8. We have professional photographers and videographers at all our resorts to help you capture that perfect moment, so you can leave heavy camera equipment at home. Please contact us at [email protected] for further details and prices.

9. For families with infants and small children, we will arrange all the essential equipment you need, such as cots and high chairs. Please refer to our pre-arrival form for more details, or contact us at [email protected].

10. If you’re travelling with children, don’t pack all of their toys and gadgets – younger guests will love The Den, our dedicated zone for kids of all ages, which includes a Lego room, dressing up room, cinema, music room, arts and crafts space and even a kitchen for kid-friendly cooking classes.

11. Need a charge? We provide adaptors in all of our villas and our electricity sockets are multi-standard to fit a wide range of plugs and chargers.

12. If you need to stay connected to the outside world, we offer complimentary WIFI at the resort. Should you wish to truly disconnect you can turn the WIFI off in your villa.

13. To chill out to your favourite soundtrack, simply connect to the Bluetooth Bose speaker system in your villa. Each villa also includes a television and DVD player.

14. Planning to stay active during your visit? We have everything you need, from yoga mats in every villa, personal bicycles and tricycles for guests of all ages, and complimentary use of non-motorised watersports equipment, including paddle boards, canoes, catamarans and windsurfs. We also have an on-site gym.

15. Tell us your favourite vintage, and we’ll stock up your walk-in mini bar or cellar before you arrive.

16. Forgotten something? Our on-site boutique has all the essentials, from natural suncreams to the latest beachwear.

Can I bring/use my own drone?

We strongly advise against bringing drones to Soneva Kiri. Maintaining our guests’ privacy is our top priority, so drone use is completely banned in many areas of the resort (such as above guest villas). There are specific times and areas when drone use is permitted, which must be approved by our General Manager. If you would like to record drone footage, we recommend that you use our Digital Storyteller service.

What can I do at Soneva Kiri?

For our full list of experiences click here.

What activities are there for families?

The Den, our children’s zone, is a playground for the imagination. Click here for more information about The Den and its weekly programme of activities.

We also offer a wide range of one-of-a-kind experiences for the whole family.

Do you offer photography or videography services?

Yes, our Digital Storytellers can accompany you however you wish, capturing whatever memories you choose. They also offer drone photography and videography.

If you wish to book one of our Digital Storytellers, please coordinate with your Barefoot Butler to book a time slot, or contact our Reservations Team.

What equipment is available in the gym?

  • TRX, Suspension Trainer
  • Treadmill, Technogym
  • Elliptical Cross trainer, Technogym
  • Rower, Concept2
  • Exercise Bike, Technogym
  • Shoulder Press, Technogym

Where can I eat at Soneva Kiri?

For our full list of dining destinations and experiences, please click here.

Do you cater to plant-based, vegans, vegetarians, coeliacs or people with special dietary requirements?

Yes, we have a wide range of menus to suit every dining requirement and our chefs can customise every meal according to your preferences (including vegetarian, plant-based, pescatarian, kosher and halal).

Do I need to book ahead for Soneva Kiri’s restaurants?

Tables at our restaurants are based on availability (excluding So Fresh for our Half and Full Board guests). You can book in advance via Reservations, or you can speak to your Barefoot Guardian if you want to book a specific restaurant during your stay.

Which restaurants are included in the Half and Full Board meal plans?

Half Board (breakfast and dinner) or Full Board (breakfast, lunch and dinner) meals are fully-inclusive at The Dining Room for breakfast, The Dining Room, South Beach and Ever Soneva So Spirited for lunch, and The Dining Room, Kruua Mae Tuk (Tuk’s Kitchen), Colours of the Garden and The View for dinner. If you choose to dine at any of our other outlets, you will be credited with USD 100 per person for lunch, and USD 175 for dinner. Anything outside of this credit limit will be charged as a supplement as per the published rates.

Are beverages included in the Half or Full Board meal plans?

No. All beverages, including juice, water and aerated and alcoholic drinks are charged separately.

Do you have an all-inclusive supplement?

Yes, Soneva Unlimited is priced at USD 710 per adult per night (age 15 and above) and USD 355 per child per night (age 7 to 14), inclusive of taxes and service charge. The supplement is charged in addition to nightly villa rates and is not applicable for any bonus night offers. Soneva Unlimited includes endless sumptuous feasts and inspiring cuisine with visiting Michelin-starred chefs; daily rejuvenating therapies and one-of-a-kind experiences.

Can we prepare our own food in the villa kitchens?

We can arrange for one of our chefs to cook in your villa for an additional fee. Please note that not all villas have kitchens so please confirm with our Reservations Team in advance.

Can I dine at Soneva Kiri if I’m not a guest?

Yes, if you make a reservation in advance through our Reservations team at [email protected]. Transfers to and from Soneva Kiri can be arranged privately.

Soneva in Aqua

We do not recommend direct voyages to and from Malé as the journey is too long and can be quite rough, which is tiring for guests. We are also unable to use Soneva in Aqua for airport transfers as we cannot guarantee exact journey times to match your flight schedule.

However, we can collect guests from Malé on overnight charters. Guests can use this as an opportunity for a surfing or diving charter on the way to the resort. All food preferences and water sports activities should be communicated in advance of such charter trips.

Any pick-ups and drop-offs outside of the Baa Atoll are charged a relocation fee of USD 1,000.

Yes, this can be arranged, depending on availability. Please contact our Reservations Team for further details.

No, guests of all ages are welcome on board Soneva in Aqua, however children under the age of 4 need prior approval from the captain before boarding Soneva in Aqua.

We recommend that guests book a minimum of a three- to four-night stay. This will enable you to make the most of our incredible signature services (including your Barefoot Butler, personal sous chef and personal spa therapist), to enjoy Soneva in Aqua’s unique onboard experiences and to explore the beauty of the Maldives archipelago. For an extra charge we can also arrange a yoga therapist, photographer, surf, dive or fitness instructor.

While we endeavour to accommodate every guest on Soneva in Aqua, we recommend that you speak directly to our Captain to ensure you are able to enjoy all of the facilities on board, and understand what to expect.

Yes, this is possible. Our crew can arrange something special for our guests over Christmas and New Year’s as well as birthday parties. We can also decorate, set up lighting and sound to create just the ambiance you desire. Please contact our Reservations Team to discuss your requirements.

Yes, sleeping on deck can be arranged on request on the large daybed on the main deck as well as the fully cushioned flybridge. It is not uncommon for our guests to spend the night on the deck.

Yes, your personal sous chef will stay onboard for the duration of your trip. With a menu tailored to your tastes and seafood caught fresh from the ocean, dining on board Soneva in Aqua is a truly bespoke experience, from breakfast to dinner, castaway picnics or a late-night aperitif.

Yes, the onboard spa therapist offers a wide range of spa treatments and holistic therapies, which can be enjoyed on deck or in the privacy of your own spacious cabin.

Yes, Wi-Fi is available. Should you wish to disconnect during your voyage, Wi-Fi can be de-activated at your request. Soneva in Aqua’s navigation system is connected to the Wi-Fi, which cannot be turned off during navigation.

Yes, this can be arranged. Please contact our Reservations Team to discuss your requirements.

Yes, it is possible to collect guests from resorts within the Baa or Noonu Atolls, depending on availability. Please contact our Reservations Team to discuss your requirements. Please note that a pick-up fee of USD 1,000 is applicable anywhere outside of the Baa Atoll.

Yes, both the Day Charter and Night Charter can be arranged for outside guests.

The maximum number of guests is six, four adults and two children.

The maximum occupancy allows for 12 people on board. With the minimum of five crew members we can accommodate seven guests at any one time. We can make exceptions for higher numbers of guests when Soneva in Aqua is at anchor or in port. Please do not hesitate to get in touch regarding your requirements.

Yes, we actively encourage our guests to immerse themselves in the beauty of the Indian Ocean! The Baa and Noonu Atolls are home to many secluded coves, secret beaches and reefs that are abundant with tropical marine life. Simply let our crew know if you would like your itinerary to include any specific swimming or snorkelling spots along your journey. For guided snorkelling, our crew are also experienced snorkelling guides.

A voyage on Soneva in Aqua is the ideal way to experience sustainable surfing, and there are a number of excellent surf breaks within the Baa and Noonu Atolls and nearby Goidhoo.

Diving can be arranged for PADI-certified divers through the Soleni Dive Centre. There are numerous and diverse dive sites within and around the atolls, suitable for a range of skill levels and abilities.

Voyages on Soneva in Aqua are completely bespoke, and experiences and activities can be tailored to your preferences. Stay within the Baa and Noonu Atolls, or set sail to farther shores in the idyllic Raa and Lhaviyani Atolls.

Start the day with a sunrise yoga or meditation session. Enjoy an island castaway picnic on a remote island or dine on the catch of the day, freshly prepared on board.

Drop anchor to explore the islands, islets and sandbanks on a paddleboard and snorkel the depths to discover reefs abundant with colourful marine life.

Indulge in a massage on deck, soak in the outdoor spa tub, or sink into the glass-bottomed bathtub in your cabin. Swim with manta rays, look out for rare turtles, or sail among dolphins on a sunset cruise.

Book an optional Sustainable Surf package to discover the atolls’ best breaks, or dive at an array of incredible sites with our experts from the Soleni Dive Centre. If you wish to unlock the secrets of the night skies, we can organise for our expert astronomer to join you on board.

Or simply relax into the comfortable bowsprit nets and enjoy the warm rays of the sun and the gentle sea breeze as your Captain expertly navigates your route across the ocean.

For a full list of experiences on Soneva in Aqua, please click here or contact our Reservations Team.

Luxury Yacht Experiences and Itineraries, Skurfing

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