Tripadvisor gives a Travelers’ Choice award to accommodations, attractions and restaurants that consistently earn great reviews from travelers and are ranked within the top 10% of properties on Tripadvisor.
Tripadvisor gives a Travelers’ Choice award to accommodations, attractions and restaurants that consistently earn great reviews from travelers and are ranked within the top 10% of properties on Tripadvisor.
Luxury Undressed. Gentle sands leading you to the water's edge. Soothing vistas across the spectacular turquoise lagoon at sunset. Minimalist contemporary chic meets comfortable natural elegance in your own private hideaway. Five dining venues, each providing a taste of the exotic. Two innovative bars, the ultimate chill-out. Experiences that immerse you in local culture, underwater explorations that introduce you to our tropical marine world. Days and nights of simple indulgence. Step into the unknown. Welcome to Velassaru.
Star ratings are intended to indicate the general level of features, amenities, and services to expect. This property is classified according to Giata.
This summary was created by AI, based on recent reviews.
Powered by AI
Nestled in a picturesque setting ideal for first-time divers, Velassaru Maldives garners high praise for its range of amenities, including varied dining experiences, a luxury spa, and excellent transportation services. Guests frequently commend the spacious and pristine rooms, coupled with meticulous housekeeping.
The service at Velassaru Maldives is often celebrated for the staff's warmth and commitment to creating memorable stays. With its enchanting atmosphere and unwavering cleanliness, the hotel is considered a relaxing retreat that offers good value, despite some premium pricing.
Location
Picturesque
Atmosphere
Enchanting
Rooms
Spacious
Value
Reasonable
Cleanliness
Immaculate
Service
Attentive
Amenities
World-class
Was this helpful?
Tripadvisor is not responsible for this summary or the opinions in it. For more information, please read the traveler reviews and learn more about how the site works.
Traveler rating
2,208
347
88
27
17
Time of year
Traveler type
Language
Selected filters
Filter
English
Popular mentions
Sort by:
Detailed Reviews
These reviews are machine translated from their original language. Show machine translations?
Every year in the autumn, my husband, Vyacheslav, and I come here, for the seventh time as a cottage, to our favorite room 117. All the time we decided on the choice that there is no point in paying more and living elsewhere if the room is very quiet and comfortable from all points of view: very close to the sea with a coral reef, beautiful sunsets, in the house shade in the hot sun, far enough from restaurants and boats, birds singing, herons walking, in a word - we are in paradise. It is here on this island that we get the best value for money, so we try to come back here every year. Before that, we were on another island, we flew there by hydroplane, far and not very comfortable. And here you're brought by a fast and comfortable boat 25 minutes from Malé airport. And right away, rest begins. Very comfortable. The wonderful team of Velassaru island really makes our holiday pleasant and relaxed. I would like to acknowledge the work of our housekeeper Ali Sanuun, the girls Aruzhan, Bandana in the restaurants Vella and Etestian, Anna at the reception, everyone tries very hard to make our holiday as comfortable as possible, from the gardeners to the general manager Mr. Denis Gordienko. That's why we come back here year after year. Taking care of tourists is an important factor in staying on the island and we appreciate that. Thank you all for a wonderful time in this corner of paradise. I would like to mention the wonderful service and food in the restaurants Send, Etestian, Turquoise, the good choice of in-room menus, and we ask you to keep the option of choosing meals on a BB basis. For us, this is an important criterion when choosing a hotel on vacation. Out of nuance, the bad internet in our room. This year we weren't happy, the signal was always gone, you can't watch You Tube. As wishes I wanted to have some nice bonus for our frequent return, it used to be a champagne canapé on the beach at sunset, very atmospheric.
Read more
Automatically translated
Date of stay: November 2024Trip type: Traveled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
We are ten days into a fifteen night holiday at Velassaru, and we are having the most incredible holiday here. We are so lucky to have visited the Maldives previously to this (to five different resorts) and have been fortunate enough to experience much of what the Maldives has to offer. Each resort has been a unique and ultimately fantastic experience, however Velassaru is already our hot contender for favourite. We arrived at Male on 6th October in a terrible downpour, and after a short 20 minute wait at the airport we headed on foot (2 mins walk) to the harbour. The short speedboat crossing was a little bumpy, something we have never experienced before on our arrival in the Maldives. The boat crew were calm, courteous and professional, regularly checking we were ok and zipping/unzipping the window/sides to ensure we stayed dry and comfortable. All very reassuring. It continued to rain as as we arrived at Velassaru 25 minutes later, and resort staff greeted us with umbrellas and took us straight to reception for welcome drinks and cooling scented towels, and after a brief welcome we were escorted to breakfast. The first thing that immediately stuck us was the beautifully appointed restaurant and bar area, cleverly designed to feel modern and luxurious, whilst reflecting all the charm and traditional characteristics of Maldivian culture and architecture. A fine balance, and something they seem to have got very right here. We have visited a number of other resorts where this approach has become confused, and we have previously felt these resorts lacked the essence of the Maldives, too clinical and contemporary. Everywhere you turn here, there are well appointed, comfortable ‘named’ zones to rest, eat, entertain, sleep, and everywhere is immaculate from gym to washrooms, and from beaches to gardens and infinity pool. Fabulous little touches, the paper bags with popcorn at the cinema nights, the ice-cream bicycle that tours the island twice a day with a delicious selection of ice cream (and a very smiley member of staff- thank you Omary!) the fresh fruit sticks at the swimming pool, all make you feel cared for, valued and thought of as individuals. Comfort, for us, is priority. With a strap line of ‘luxury undressed’, we had high expectations about the level of comfort we could expect at Velassaru prior to our arrival. This resort has absolutely nailed it. The sun loungers are all high quality and in a great condition, all have luxurious padded cushions and are plentiful around the island. Every chair we have found (in bars, restaurants and general areas) we have been happy to sit in for hours watching the world pass by. Towels are high quality and plentiful, so no need to carry around with you, and the products used on the island (L’Occitane) are great quality and available in all rooms, including shampoos, conditioners, shower gels, and body lotions. Safety is also clearly a priority, so we are pleased to see that safety is taken very seriously here, rooms fully equipped with life jackets, torches, there are flag systems in place along the beach, maps with recommended snorkelling areas etc. It sounds like the basics, but in our experience not every resort is the same in this regard. I experienced a medical issue here, a week into the holiday, and after reporting it to reception the doctor was located and within ten minutes we were in his immaculate clinic and I was being treated. Super reassuring. (Thank you Doctor Hassan) When we arrived we were upgraded to an incredible room, we had originally booked a Beach Villa with direct beach access, however as we have visited their ‘sister’ island Kurumba, we received the upgrade to Beach Villa with Pool. As repeat visitors we also benefit from a generous discount on food and drinks and also a 30% discount in the private restaurants. The Beach Villa room is stunning, with a large comfortable king size bed, high quality linen, duvets and pillows and our absolute favourite, a huge garden bathroom, with two outdoor showers, (three if you count your outdoor shower next to the private pool) freestanding bath, double basin and private loo. And of course those beautiful L’Occitane products. Then.. THE VIEW!! Just absolutely incredible!! I thoroughly recommend a beach villa or beach pool villa with direct beach access, the view is just breathtaking. That said, we have walked around the island and all of the accommodation here is amazing and just a short moments walk from the beach. You will not be disappointed whichever room, villa or suite you book. Our room boy, Rauf, is super attentive and ensures we have everything we need each day, topping up tea, coffee, milk and water as well as replenishing the towels and leaving our room immaculate after every visit. Ameen, front of house manager at reception is also fantastic, he has been on hand throughout our stay organising and recommending, he os extremely knowledgeable due to his extensive time on the island and is a credit to the resort. Extremely courteous and professional and well organised. I particularly like that the team upsell products and services with keenness, but it’s not pushy nor repetitive, this is something that can really be a problem for us on holiday so it is appreciated that it’s very subtle here. Wherever we have walked on the island, we have found the staff to be courteous and polite, gardeners stop work to smile and say good morning as you pass, managers stop to ask how your day is, and it all seems so genuine and effortless. It also feels (most importantly) unobtrusive and they seem to judge instantly how much interaction you want to have in that moment. Staff here seem to be relaxed and happy whilst also maintaining exceptionally high professional standards. Many staff we have spoken with have been on the island for years, some are even ‘repeaters’, and this speaks volumes for how the resort is managed, of course it’s not just the staff that benefit from this it’s also the guests. Our mealtimes have been greatly enhanced by the resort hospitality team. We have enjoyed the company of Ruchira, Riya, Aiham, Ziyan, Zaideen, Valentina at breakfast and dinner in Vela and Etisian. Ruchira is exceptionally professional, he manages his team seamlessly, and is clearly well respected amongst them. His management and fabulous team has ensured we have everything we need each time we arrive in the restaurant, and because of this every mealtime is a special occasion. The team clearly know how judge guests mood and how much interaction is required, something very appreciated by us. The chefs are all welcoming and friendly, as well as being extremely attentive and they are flexible with menus, a great plus point. We met and chatted with a lovely Norwegian family, who were travelling with a daughter suffering from Celiac Disease, and they were so delighted with the care they received while they were here and the Gluten Free food the chefs prepared each day for their daughter. Riya, Aiham and Ziyan are all very young, but are a real credit to the resort, they seem very keen to learn and always appear to do everything they can to ensure guests are happy and comfortable, welcoming into the restaurant and serving throughout the mealtimes. They are also very funny, and we have thoroughly enjoyed our evening conversations and in particular enjoyed the origami gifts and masterclass!! We are on a Half Board package which includes our food in the Vela Buffet in the morning and evening, which is plentiful and varied. There is a different theme each evening (Italian, Arabic etc) We have also eaten in Etisian, where I had the best tenderloin steak I have ever had. The service was exceptional (thank you Valentina and Zaideen) We plan to eat in the Teppanyaki restaurant and we also have a set dinner with wine tasting booked so plan to leave a further review once the holiday is over regarding our experiences. My husband has also planned four dives, which I will also cover, along with other general points about the island. If you are thinking about a visit to Velassaru, don’t hesitate! We cannot find fault with anything at all on this little piece of paradise called Velassaru and can honestly see ourselves returning again next year!! It’s absolute heaven. Thank you to you all for such a wonderful experience. PS as for the weather, it was forecast to rain every day on the weather forecasts I saw before we left England. We had rain on arrival, and for that full evening, but it has been beautiful every day since. Between 29-31 degrees. We have visited the Maldives off peak 5 times (May x 2, June, Sept, Oct) and once peak (April- too hot for me!!) and only once experienced bad weather longer than a few days. It’s absolutely beautiful off peak as well as on, and even if you have a downpour or two (or even a storm) they are incredible to watch and pass quickly so stop worrying, pack your sunscreen and your case and head to Velassaru!
Read more
Date of stay: October 2023Trip type: Traveled as a couple
Room Tip:One side of the island is more breezy (suits us perfectly) if you want a calm stillness when you...
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Denys Hordiienko, General Manager at Velassaru Maldives
Responded Oct 17, 2023
Dear Bexsy1970 , First and foremost, we would like to express our heartfelt gratitude for choosing Velassaru Maldives as your destination for this extraordinary holiday. Thank you for taking the time to share your exceptional experience with us on TripAdvisor. It's truly heartwarming to read about your journey with us, from the moment you arrived in the rain to your continued delight during your stay. Your kind words, insightful observations, and enthusiastic descriptions are greatly appreciated. We are genuinely honoured that Velassaru has become a top contender among the numerous resorts you've visited in the Maldives. Our team works diligently to ensure that each guest receives a warm welcome, and your comments about the arrival experience and our thoughtful staff are a testament to their dedication. We are delighted that you found our resort's blend of modern luxury and traditional Maldivian charm to be perfectly balanced. Creating a unique and immersive environment for our guests is a priority for us, and we are thrilled that we achieved that during your stay. Your appreciation of the small, personalized touches such as cinema nights, ice cream bicycles, and fresh fruit sticks is truly heartening. We aim to create moments of delight and fond memories for our guests, and your words reflect that we succeeded. Comfort is paramount to us, and we are delighted that you found our accommodations to be top-notch. We take pride in providing high-quality amenities and services, and we are pleased that you enjoyed our sun loungers, towels, and L'Occitane products. Your emphasis on safety is well noted, and we appreciate your recognition of the efforts we put into ensuring a secure and enjoyable environment for our guests. We are sincerely grateful for your understanding and positive feedback about the medical assistance you received during your stay. The health and well-being of our guests are of utmost importance to us, and we are delighted that you felt well taken care of. As a token of our appreciation for your loyalty and as repeat visitors, we are pleased that you received an upgrade to a Beach Villa with Pool and special discounts. Your enthusiasm for the room and its stunning views is genuinely heartwarming. Our team members, such as Rauf and Ameen, work diligently to provide a comfortable and seamless experience, and we will be sure to commend them for their excellent service. Your kind words about our team members Ruchira, Riya, Aiham, Ziyan, Zaideen, and Valentina at Vela and Etisian restaurants are truly appreciated. It's wonderful to hear that they made your mealtimes special and memorable. We are proud of our dedicated chefs who go the extra mile to accommodate dietary preferences and restrictions, as well as ensure all guests are happy. Your detailed description of our dining options and planned experiences on the island is very valuable. We look forward to hearing more about your diving experiences and any other aspects of your stay you'd like to share in the future. Your final words, encouraging others to visit Velassaru, warm our hearts and inspire us to continue providing exceptional experiences. We hope to welcome you back soon and have the pleasure of exceeding your expectations once again. Thank you for choosing Velassaru Maldives, and until your next visit, we wish you safe and memorable travels. In the meantime, please stay in touch with us through our Velassaru Maldives Facebook Page and keep an eye out for special offers on our website. Feel free to share your photos with us on Instagram by tagging us @velassarumaldives or by using the hashtag #velassarumaldives Sunny regards from the Maldives, Denys Hordiienko General Manager Velassaru Maldives
Read more
Report response as inappropriate
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
A lot to digest? Read an AI-generated summary of recent traveler reviews.
After a particularly manic year with work, I treated myself to a week on Velassaru. I have been fortunate enough to visit several islands in Maldives, so had a good idea of what to expect. Of the islands to choose from, Velassaru had especially good reviews, which helped my decision. Close proximity to Male airport so speedboat transfer only option, which I was slightly nervous about, suffering from sea-sickness, but journey was quick and calm. Island is very laid-back (as one would expect, but even more-so than previous islands I have been to), but so well managed that, to appear so calm, has to require an enormous amount of work behind the scenes for everything to be so good without appearing to work at it. Very friendly and accommodating staff - making guests feel welcome and they mattered, and lots of them available, so no waiting or having to ask twice, which adds to the speed of wind-down process. Beach Villa room was superb; spacious, well laid out, in immaculate condition and well looked after by 'Shahid'. Although a small point, water in the room is complimentary and frequently topped up throughout the day, which has often not been the case elsewhere. Also, drinking water is made in their own plant and in glass bottles which are re-used, so no issues with plastic which has historically been the case. One of the particular stand-outs for Velassaru is the food. I could not fault anything about the quality, options and presentation - and a step up from other islands I have visited. There is a good choice of eateries on the island, but the main restaurant is of such excellent quality, with superb selection and changing options, that it doesn't feel like the cheap option to eat here, rather than at one of the paid-for restaurants. If you want activity and entertainment there is plenty going on (my feeling is the Maldives' USP should be there isn't much going on, but understand that it wants to compete with other locations so develops itself - almost to a point of over-development where it will loose the appeal it is renoun for). Only negative: motorised water-sports, which adds noise and the smell of petrol fumes around the island; not what you want when visiting 'paradise', but understand that they're catering for as broad an audience as possible. Conclusion: of all the islands I have visited so far, Velassaru is the best. I would defintely return.
Read more
Date of stay: January 2025
Value
Rooms
Location
Cleanliness
Service
Sleep Quality
Trip type: Traveled solo
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Denys Hordiienko, General Manager at Velassaru Maldives
Responded 2 weeks ago
Dear edwardb638 , Thank you so much for taking the time to share your detailed and glowing review of your stay at Velassaru Maldives. It was a true pleasure to read about your experience, and we are delighted to know that we could provide the perfect retreat for you after such a busy year. We are thrilled that you found Velassaru to be a step above other islands you’ve visited, and it means the world to us that our efforts to create a seamless, calm, and welcoming environment did not go unnoticed. Your kind words about our attentive team, especially Shahid, are deeply appreciated, and I will personally ensure he knows how much his service contributed to your stay. It's wonderful to hear that you enjoyed your Beach Villa and appreciated our commitment to sustainability with the use of glass bottles and our on-island water plant. Providing a luxurious experience while remaining mindful of our environment is a priority for us, and it’s rewarding to know these efforts resonated with you. Your praise for our culinary offerings truly warms our hearts. Our talented chefs take immense pride in crafting exceptional dining experiences, and it’s fantastic to hear that you found both the variety and quality of the food a standout highlight. We have noted your feedback about motorized water sports and understand your perspective. Striking a balance between offering diverse activities and preserving the tranquillity of paradise is something we continually strive to refine. Knowing that Velassaru has become your favourite island and that you would return is the greatest compliment we could receive. We would be absolutely delighted to welcome you back to paradise whenever you’re ready for another escape. In the meantime, please stay in touch with us through our Velassaru Maldives Facebook Page and watch for special offers on our website. Feel free to share your photos with us on Instagram by tagging us @velassarumaldives or by using the hashtag #velassarumaldives Sunny regards from the Maldives, Denys Hordiienko General Manager Velassaru Maldives
Read more
Report response as inappropriate
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
An excellent island for first time Maldive visitors in reasonable price but exceptional service and views.
Like many comments say that it might not be a snorkeling paradise, but for first timers there has been plenty marine lifes to see along the main beach, while having the beautiful lagoon and softy white sands.
We loved the infinity pool, and the chill bar with sunset view definitely worths visiting. The size of the island itself was just perfect for us – approx.. 20 mins to walk around, won’t be too crowded and at most times you could always take pictures without other guests.
We made the reservation with the hotel directly and the communication via email was very smooth and professional. Thanks Zinthiya and Karthick, your replies helped make my final decision of visiting Velassaru (and Maldive).
In general the service was above our expectation. All staffs were nice and polite. Regarding house keeping, not sure if twice a day is the standard of Maldive resorts but every time returning to the villa with everything in order was soooo goooood. The house keeper also helped us collect the clothes hanging outside to avoid getting wet by rain.
We booked the half board plan and we would recommend either HB or AI (if you drink a lot). For budget travelers bringing some snacks for lunch would be enough. For dinner there has been plenty of choices at Vela, most food changes every night so you won’t get bored. But please note drinks would be charged during dinner for HB or FB. Still water costs 4 USD, while it’s exactly the as the complimentary in room. We knew that from other comments but still felt complicated about it.
Reservation of other restaurant for dinner is required. Teppanyaki is the most recommended one. Seats were limited so we made the reservation soon after arrival. The restaurant was over water and we saw sharks and stingray wandering around, the whole experience was wonderful.
And specially we wanted to thank Arnold and the chef from Malaysia (forgot to ask about the name) - After knowing we are from China they helped prepared Chinese congee with sides that we would actually eat at home. Really a surprise and feeling much appreciated to have 'home taste' during the vacation.
All in all, the people, the food, the facilities and the service made the whole experience memorable and we would recommend Velassaru to friends definitely.
Read more
Date of stay: August 2023
Value
Location
Service
Trip type: Traveled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Denys Hordiienko, General Manager at Velassaru Maldives
Responded Aug 22, 2023
Dear DayTrip27101925215 , We are truly elated to read your wonderful review of your recent stay at Velassaru Maldives. Thank you for choosing our island paradise as your destination and for taking the time to share your incredible experience with the TripAdvisor community. We are thrilled that you found Velassaru to be an excellent choice, particularly for first-time Maldives visitors. It's heartwarming to know that our reasonable pricing, exceptional service, and breathtaking views left a lasting impression on you. The beauty of our marine life, coupled with the stunning lagoon and soft white sands, indeed make for an enchanting experience. We're glad that you enjoyed the main beach's marine life and the serene beauty of our surroundings. Your appreciation for our infinity pool and sunset-view chill bar brings us immense joy. We're equally pleased that the island's size and ambience resonated with you, providing you with the perfect blend of tranquillity and space to create cherished memories. It's delightful to know that our team members, especially Zinthiya and Karthick, contributed to making your communication and reservation process smooth and professional. Your kind words about our service exceed our expectations, and we're grateful for your recognition of our staff's efforts, including our housekeeping team's meticulous attention to detail. We're glad you enjoyed our dining options and appreciated the variety we offer. Your feedback about the pricing of drinks during dinner for HB or FB is well-noted, and we appreciate your input as we continually work to enhance our guest experience. We're thrilled that you had an exceptional experience at our Teppanyaki restaurant, and the fact that our team went above and beyond to prepare a personalized culinary experience based on your preferences truly warms our hearts. Thank you once again for your kind words, your recommendations, and for considering us as your home away from home in the Maldives. It's our utmost pleasure to have you as our guests, and we can't wait to welcome you and your friends back for another unforgettable experience. In the meantime, please stay in touch with us through our Velassaru Maldives Facebook Page and keep an eye out for special offers on our website. Feel free to share your photos with us on Instagram by tagging us @velassarumaldives or by using the hashtag #velassarumaldives Sunny regards from the Maldives, Denys Hordiienko General Manager Velassaru Maldives
Read more
Report response as inappropriate
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
I have visited this island many times with friends, family and solo. The Velassaru welcome is incredibly special and they will become like family.
The staff, from the management team, restaurant staff, beach staff, bar staff, room staff, ice-cream vendor (don’t worry, it’s free and comes to you), porters, reception staff, gardeners, watersports staff and everyone else, are warm, welcoming, smiling and friendly and never walk past you without greeting you. They make it their sole mission to make your stay as wonderful as you imagined it to be. They make a point of getting to know your likes and preferences and deliver everything you ask for and much more, to show true Maldivian kindness and friendship and hospitality. The food is fabulous, but they still go to extra lengths to prepare it the way you like and want you to enjoy it, even making food especially for you, (thank you Wasantha, you are a king and I am now on a strict diet). Rooms are made pristine and decorated with beautiful flowers daily, just because they want to, (thank you Sharm and the garden team), Omary will serve you ice cream twice daily with the biggest smile and happiest greeting, (Omary, you’re special!) Bandana will wait on you at breakfast where all the staff are discreet, professional and amazingly friendly. Thank you Bandana for your company and insights into other cultures, you’re fabulous. The Chill bar staff are always awesome, thanks guys, and especially to Ahmed who regularly checks you have everything you need. The reception staff will attend to any request quickly, quietly and professionally. It is the staff that make this island experience as wonderful as it is.
The island is peaceful, with the most wonderful views and you cannot fail to have a good time and make fantastic memories (unless you are a sad, negative person, but then why go?).
My biggest thanks go to the Immersion dive centre. The staff there will provide excellent tuition on the PADI dive courses and will guide, support and encourage you to achieve your best. You can develop skills quickly with this type of instruction (don’t mention my compass skills, sore point) and then go on to complete some amazing recreational dives in a very short space of time. I didn’t even dream I could do all this. Joel and Aneel you are an exceptional team and I encourage everyone to go and experience the magic at Immersion.
Read more
Date of stay: March 2024
Value
Rooms
Location
Cleanliness
Service
Sleep Quality
Trip type: Traveled solo
Room Tip:The staff will look after you well if you spend a few minutes getting to know them.
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Denys Hordiienko, General Manager at Velassaru Maldives
Responded Apr 17, 2024
Dear globalgirl14, What an absolute pleasure it is to read your heartwarming review titled "An experience you will always remember and want more" on TripAdvisor! On behalf of the entire Velassaru Maldives team, I extend our sincerest gratitude for your continued patronage and for taking the time to share your wonderful experiences with us. Your words resonate deeply with us, as it is our utmost priority to ensure that each guest feels not only welcomed but truly embraced as part of our Velassaru family. We are overjoyed to hear that you have chosen to return to our island paradise time and time again, whether with friends, and family or embarking on solo adventures. Your loyalty speaks volumes, and we are honoured to be a part of your cherished memories. Our dedicated team members, from every department you mentioned and beyond, take immense pride in delivering exceptional service with warm smiles and genuine hospitality. It brings us immense joy to know that they have left such a positive impression on you, going above and beyond to tailor each experience to your preferences and ensuring that every moment exceeds your expectations. Your recognition of individuals such as Wasantha, Sharm, Omary, Bandana, and Ahmed, among others, truly warms our hearts. They epitomize the spirit of Maldivian kindness and hospitality that we strive to embody here at Velassaru. Rest assured, your kind words will be shared with them, serving as motivation to continue delivering unparalleled service with unwavering dedication. We are thrilled to hear of your incredible experiences with our Immersion dive centre team, particularly Joel and Aneel. Their passion for diving and dedication to providing exceptional tuition and guidance shine through in your review. We wholeheartedly appreciate your recommendation and encouragement for others to experience the magic of diving with us. Your feedback inspires and motivates us to continually improve and exceed expectations. We are deeply grateful for your support and the opportunity to create unforgettable memories together. We eagerly await the opportunity to welcome you back to Velassaru Maldives for many more unforgettable experiences in the future. Until then, please know that you will always have a special place in our Velassaru family. In the meantime, please stay in touch with us through our Velassaru Maldives Facebook Page and watch for special offers on our website. Feel free to share your photos with us on Instagram by tagging us @velassarumaldives or by using the hashtag #velassarumaldives Sunny regards from the Maldives, Denys Hordiienko General Manager Velassaru Maldives
Read more
Report response as inappropriate
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
This was our 3rd stay at Velassaru, Maldives and it was just as magical as the previous ones. First time we don’t know what to expect and all it was a excellent experience. The second time was better than the first time and now the 3rd time the experience was better than the 2nd time. We arranged resort pick up from the airport with the speed boat. The speed boat was a absolute winner. From the moment we arrived at the airport, we were greeted warmly by Mr. Velassaru(I am sorry I have not know your name), who took care of our luggage and escorted us to the speed boat and after 25 minutes here we are stepping again on Velassaru island. Upon reaching the island, Mrs. Marge and her colleagues welcomed us with a warm smile and updated us on all the latest news of the resort. Check in was awesome. Got all the formalities quick and until they were done, we enjoy cocktails and refresh with worm towels. After all of this we went to our villa and we were very happy with what was allocated to us the same villa as the last time. The villa was spotless clean, well presented and plenty of room space for the 2 of us. There is also a big bar with tea, coffee and drinks whisky, vodka and vine. Big open air bathroom, plenty of closet space, huge bed with the most comfortable pillow, sofa area, dressing area and table office. All this with the addition of a nice terrace with sofa. The air conditioning worked efficiently, cooling the room quickly even in the high temperatures. Breakfast at Velassaru is a culinary delight, offering a diverse selection of dishes from around the world. From curryes and noodles to omelets, quiches, salads, sushi, smoothie, yogurt, and more, everything was meticulously prepared by head chef and his team. The every day ice-cream is a delightful. The Turqoise restaurant is well worth to eat. The Turqoise restaurant menu has many options you can choose from local food, pasta, curry, fish and other dishes that delighted us. The gardens and paths are very well maintained by gardeners making the island look like a real paradise. I did not get to see who give us the coconut but wow what a worker another wonderful person. So, in summary our 3rd stay at Velassaru was great and I would really recommend to give it try. Beautiful Resort, fantastic staff, good food, great ambiance. Again, just to highlight some awesome people Riya, Moosa, Salam, Zhayde, the waffle lady, and the pancake man, the fruit man and all the staff from the restaurant. Also I would like to thank mr. Tong for the advice and dr. Hassan for all the chat we have. A special thank you for Mrs. Marge it was our pleasure to spend a beautiful holiday in the unique resort Velassaru. Would I come back? Oh yes. We are looking to rebook for next year. Many thanks Velassaru for a really awesome holiday. Cannot wait to get back.
Read more
Date of stay: September 2024
Value
Rooms
Location
Cleanliness
Service
Sleep Quality
Trip type: Traveled with family
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Denys Hordiienko, General Manager at Velassaru Maldives
Responded Sep 16, 2024
Dear PaulAlecu , Thank you for your incredible review and for making Velassaru your paradise for the third time! We are overjoyed to hear that each stay has been better than the last, and we truly appreciate your detailed feedback. It’s wonderful to know that the speed boat transfer, warm welcome from Mr Velassaru, and the hospitality of Mrs Marge and her team set the tone for a magical stay. We’re thrilled that you enjoyed your villa and its amenities, as well as the diverse and delicious offerings at breakfast and Turquoise restaurant. Your kind words about our team members, including Riya, Moosa, Salam, Zhayde, and others, are greatly appreciated. We’ll be sure to pass on your compliments to everyone, including Mr Tong and Dr Hassan. It’s heartening to know that their efforts contributed to making your stay special. We’re excited that you’re planning to return next year and look forward to welcoming you back for another unforgettable experience. Thank you once again for your continued support and recommendation. In the meantime, please stay in touch with us through our Velassaru Maldives Facebook Page and watch for special offers on our website. Feel free to share your photos with us on Instagram by tagging us @velassarumaldives or by using the hashtag #velassarumaldives Sunny regards from the Maldives, Denys Hordiienko General Manager Velassaru Maldives
Read more
Report response as inappropriate
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
I’ve been traveling in Maldives 12 times , this hotel has a very high quality for the prices they ask. Cleaning 2 a day, nice rooms, comfortable beds in the room, nice vibes around, the workers are kind and ready to help and also the restaurants are great compared to other much more expensive and big name resorts we’ve been. They are doing a great job in my opinion. We had some reservations issues and they made us so happy at the end that we actually turned to feel and think it was great that it happened like this. They were so generous and kind until the very last day and not only that it saved us lots of money but it gave us a wonderful feeling that they really empathize and understood our disappointment. We of course got as well the refund. Thank you for everything, it was an amazing holiday, we left with such nice feeling of gratitude! I’ve recommend the shark trip it was a lovely experience and Alexei was very helpful in suggesting nice places of snorkeling! We will soon go back! If you are looking for a place to disconnect from society, that’s it!
Read more
Date of stay: July 2024Trip type: Traveled with family
Room Tip:Watch the trrigerfish and get info about how you can avoid form the diving center
Shark trip is a...
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Denys Hordiienko, General Manager at Velassaru Maldives
Responded Jul 19, 2024
Dear Norsandra, Thank you so much for taking the time to share your delightful review of your recent stay at Velassaru Maldives. We are truly touched by your kind words and thrilled to hear that our team made such a significant impact on your experience. We strive to create a welcoming and caring environment for all our guests, and it is heartening to know that you felt overwhelmed with care throughout your stay. Your feedback about our high-quality service, comfortable accommodations, and the overall ambiance of our resort is greatly appreciated. We are glad you found value in the services we offer and enjoyed the cleanliness, hospitality, and dining experiences. It's wonderful to hear that our team was able to turn around your reservation issue and that their generosity and empathy left you with a sense of gratitude. Our goal is always to ensure that our guests leave with happy memories, and it sounds like we achieved that during your visit. Thank you also for highlighting the shark trip and Aleks' helpfulness. We will make sure to pass on your compliments to him. We are delighted that you had a memorable snorkeling experience. We cannot wait to welcome you back for your 13th visit to the Maldives. If you are looking for a place to disconnect and rejuvenate, Velassaru Maldives will always be here to offer you a serene and unforgettable escape. In the meantime, please stay in touch with us through our Velassaru Maldives Facebook Page and watch for special offers on our website. Feel free to share your photos with us on Instagram by tagging us @velassarumaldives or by using the hashtag #velassarumaldives Sunny regards from the Maldives, Denys Hordiienko General Manager Velassaru Maldives
Read more
Report response as inappropriate
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
We spent 9 nights on Velassaru in June, in a Beach Pool Villa, AI. The short boat ride (approx. 25 minutes) was very pleasant after the long journey (we waited for hours for the seaplane on our first visit to the Maldives a few years ago)! The Beach Pool Villa with its beautiful open bathroom is really recommended. We deliberately chose the east side because the sea is much calmer here and the wind is not so strong (snorkeling is better on the opposite side, however). The often criticized view of Male did not bother us at all, on the contrary, the illuminated skyline looked beautiful in the evening! From the northwest side you can see the industrial and garbage island of Thilafushi in the distance, but it doesn't really bother you (water bungalows in this direction do not seem to be recommended, however).
The food (á la carte despite AI) was excellent and of high quality (we mainly went to Teppanyaki and Sands in the evening, and Turquoise for lunch), the selection of food and drinks included in the AI is completely sufficient.
We visited the spa a few times, the massages were really very good (afterwards we were treated to sorbet, melon pieces and green tea).
The weekly management cocktail was very nice, the manager and employees from all departments were there and tried very hard to talk to the guests, there was also live music, delicious finger food and drinks. The staff are all very helpful and friendly!
The crowd was pleasant, different nationalities were represented, very few families (not really suitable for children).
The island is looked after from the early hours of the morning, the beaches are cleaned. The vegetation is wonderful, the foreign wildlife is a joy to the heart!
On the last day we were allowed to use our villa until the evening (the hotel was not at full capacity). During the short wait for the boat, the guests were asked how they liked it and what could be improved, then we were given a warm farewell!
Constructive criticism:
- the small stone jetty on the east side north of the supply jetty needs to be renovated urgently, as it is a beautiful vantage point when touring the island!
- the air conditioning in the room is very loud, and even when it is off it is loud, as you can hear the external unit of the air conditioning in the neighboring villa.
there is a certain need for renovation (e.g. painting, fittings in the bathroom).
All in all, however, a wonderful vacation on a small and very charming island, we look forward to seeing you again! Thank you very much!
Read more
Date of stay: June 2023Trip type: Traveled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Very pleasant stay. Small and well-kept island. You can easily get around on foot. Beautiful and well-kept hotel. We had the seaside bungalow and it was beautiful. Large and spacious room Very kind and attentive staff. Excellent restaurants. Beautiful, wide and varied beach. Beautiful sea. The diving center and spa are also excellent. The aperitif at sunset is worth it Absolutely recommended both in general and for those who want to avoid a large structure and crowds. Late check out at no additional cost and the room ready on arrival were very welcome. Punctual and comfortable boat transfer service. Convenient and quality bathroom products in refilled dispensers and not in small samples A few little suggestions: The lunch buffet could be convenient if you want to eat quickly or if you have an immediate excursion to do A couple of lines to hang wet swimsuits in the room would be useful Ditto a liquid hand soap in addition to the products already supplied Absolutely recommended. Amedeo
Read more
Date of stay: August 2023
Value
Location
Service
Trip type: Traveled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Our honeymoon at Velassaru Maldives was an absolute dream. The service was exceptional, with staff going above and beyond to ensure our comfort. From warm welcomes to attentive room service, we felt truly pampered.
The culinary experience was outstanding. With diverse dining options, each meal was a delight. From fresh seafood at Etesian to romantic dinners at Sand, the chefs at Velassaru crafted culinary masterpieces that left us in awe.
The pristine environment, from turquoise waters to white sandy beaches, added to the enchantment. Velassaru's commitment to cleanliness and sustainability was evident, creating a beautiful and eco-conscious paradise.
Every facility was well-maintained, reflecting the resort's dedication to a seamless and luxurious experience. Velassaru Maldives surpassed our expectations, and we look forward to returning to this romantic haven. Highly recommended for an unforgettable getaway.
Read more
Date of stay: December 2023
Value
Location
Service
Trip type: Traveled as a couple
Room Tip:The resort offers a variety of programs, so be sure to explore them, and some are even...
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Denys Hordiienko, General Manager at Velassaru Maldives
Responded Jan 2, 2024
Dear 528kelvink, Thank you for sharing your wonderful experience at Velassaru Maldives on TripAdvisor. We are honoured to have been a part of your blissful honeymoon, and I am delighted to hear that it was an absolute dream. It warms our hearts to know that the service provided by our team exceeded your expectations, and we appreciate your kind words about the attentive room service and warm welcomes. Ensuring your comfort and creating memorable experiences are our top priorities. I am thrilled that you enjoyed the diverse culinary offerings and that each meal was a delight. Our chefs take great pride in crafting culinary masterpieces, and I'm glad they left you in awe. It's fantastic to hear that the pristine environment, commitment to cleanliness, and sustainability efforts contributed to the enchantment of your stay. Your appreciation for the well-maintained facilities reflects our dedication to providing a seamless and luxurious experience. We are truly grateful for your recommendation, and we eagerly anticipate the opportunity to welcome you back to our romantic haven for another unforgettable getaway. In the meantime, please stay in touch with us through our Velassaru Maldives Facebook Page and keep an eye out for special offers on our website. Feel free to share your photos with us on Instagram by tagging us @velassarumaldives or by using the hashtag #velassarumaldives Sunny regards from the Maldives, Denys Hordiienko General Manager Velassaru Maldives
Read more
Report response as inappropriate
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Villas with the best beach on the island for sure is 101-105. We request them before going and if we go back again will be 101-105
No directly access but no more than 30-40 meteres.
There are more places to choose from in the Velassaru Island area.
PRICE RANGE
$449 - $1,090 (Based on Average Rates for a Standard Room)
ALSO KNOWN AS
velassaru maldives hotel south male atoll, velassaru maldives laguna beach male, velassaru maldives laguna beach hotel
LOCATION
MaldivesKaafu AtollSouth Male AtollVelassaru Island
NUMBER OF ROOMS
129
Prices are the average nightly price provided by our partners and may not include all taxes and fees. Taxes and fees that are shown are estimates only. Please see our partners for more details.
Is This Your Tripadvisor Listing?
Own or manage this property? Claim your listing for free to respond to reviews, update your profile and much more.
