Komandoo Island Resort & Spa

The pressure that built in my Eustachian tubes is nature’s way of confirming the information relayed by my dive computer as I drifted down, ever deeper beneath the surface upon which, moments ago, I was abustle with equipment assembly, donning and final checks. That sequence of activity followed by absolute serenity perfectly mirrored our arrival at Komandoo in the beautiful Maldives, a few days earlier. International travel is a succession of stress prompting procedures: travelling to the airport, check-in, security, the pandemonium of most modern airports, boarding, flight, arrival, transfer and finally on this occasion a noisy (but fun) seaplane. In much the same way as the sea swallows such concerns when scuba diving, arrival to a welcome reception of local music, cold drinks and soul-soaring views rendered the effort of getting there wholly forgivable and forgettable. From every location, the island appears simply magical; replete with stunning vegetation, corridors of pristine white sand, wildlife on land and offshore and the most accommodating, charming legion of staff for whom nothing is too much trouble. It is other worldly in its effect; nestling you in its palm and just finessing away ties to that other, more prosaic life lived. We bagged a sea villa on stilts with panoramic views, air-conditioning, steps into the turquoise sea, a refilling fridge and boxing-ring sized bed with posts to match. It was hot and humid all and every day and so our bungalow provided sanctuary and respite. It’s extraordinary how quickly one slips into the rhythms of the day; for me, two dives, then lunch, followed by relaxing and refreshing before pre-dinner drinks and then supper: effortless and consistent hedonism serviced with a smile. We were on all-inclusive plan; something I had previously viewed pejoratively but was delighted to have any misgivings beaten into submission by endless choice and quality. The array of drinks and cocktails included is extensive and sufficient to satisfy all but the inveterate experimentalist. The food is outstanding - spring bulb fresh, varied beyond belief and plentiful. How they manage to supply it all so beautifully, everyday, is beyond speculation. The staff take the time to get to know you, and pre-empt your every need with uncanny precision. Soup, salads, multiple fresh breads, curries, freshly grilled meats, fish, dhals, noodles, rice, every imaginable vegetable cooked imaginatively, puddings galore… For the scuba divers the richness of experience is seamlessly extended into the blue. Prodivers was expertly run and staffed by multi-lingual instructors who could cater for all experiences levels. The choice of dive sites unending and the undersea life mind-blowing. They were flexible, incredibly helpful and in-keeping with all things Komandoo, had their guests’ experience at the heart of everything they did. There is entertainment in the evenings, sometimes live and at other times televised, a glorious pool to lou

Our 4th visit here, and it won’t be the last. It has a great atmosphere, with mainly British and German/Austrian/Swiss guest, who have a pleasant disposition, and always say hello when passing. I’ve been to 7 Islands, some I’d go back to some not- it does depend on where the clientele are from- as there are islands with Russian or Eastern European guests, who have a more surly outlook, and for me do not make those Islands welcoming. Komandoo is not for them - The diving here is great, especially the scooter diving, for those of us with experience- and the staff throughout the Island have never been bettered on any other Island I’ve been too, from the General Manager, to the grounds staff- they are superb. I am almost reluctant to post this, the more people I tell, the more difficult it is to get a booking!,

Our 7th time to the Maldives, 1st to Komandoo we loved this island the best by far! We were met by our island host Maryana who showed us around the island & to our jacuzzi beach villa, she was vey helpful. Love that it’s a barefoot island with lots of vegetation & wildlife. The beaches & lagoon are amazing with fabulous snorkeling, sharks, turtles, rays & beautiful colorful fish! A must to watch are the nurse sharks at the end of the jetty after dark. The food is excellent in the Falhu resturant & Aqua as are the drinks/cocktails in the Kandu & sun set bar. We went on the Manta excursion & were so lucky to swim with 8 mantas! The dive center crew were amazing & very knowledgeable. The Champions are the best! They can’t do enough for you, nothing is to much trouble from the restaurants to the bars to reception they are all amazing! Our room was cleaned to a high standard by Ibrahim, he left us some amazing towel art most days. The rooms are lovely although they could be better with a little bit of an upgrade. Beyya the general manager is very attentive, always being seen around the island to make sure everyone is happy. We will definately be back….can’t wait!

From the moment we arrived we felt completely relaxed. The ambience of the island allows you to be as active or restful as you wish. There were plenty of excursions and activities to partake in if you wished, without being obtrusive in the nature of the relaxed holiday feel. The staff were all so friendly and welcoming and always happy to help. It’s true, you only need one pair of flip flops so don’t bother filling your suitcase with the weight of shoes. The food was amazing and so much choice, perfectly prepared. What fantastic chefs. Our room was gorgeous on the sunset side which we preferred as we could have a drink watching the sun go down. At high tide, there was no beach left at all on the sunrise side, so we were very happy with our choice and will choose the Turtle beach villa again. We will definitely be one of those who returns to the island as we have found our perfect holiday retreat.

We chose Komandoo as it is adults only following a disastrous holiday on a different island last year. This turned out to be the best decision we have ever made. Beaches are immaculate white powdery sand meeting clear blue lagoons. Villas are equally immaculate and ideally located. All staff are extremely friendly kind and considerate especially our restaurant and villa champions as they are referred too. Choice of buffet style meals is varied with different theme nights. Food at the Aqua restaurant is outstanding. Shout out to Rajan the chef. We will definitely be back again next year but have to acknowledge our restaurant champions Riza and Yoosuf. Our room champions Ibrahim and Azmeel. Sanwar and Asitha who looked after us at the Kandu bar. Ahsham and Mini who made our stay perfect. A big thank you to all staff here who made our holiday the most memorable ever. It is because of you all that we will return again next year.

If paradise exists it is called Komandoo. The resort,nature, food, staff, activities, everything is amazing here ! Eveeyone will find something for themselves. Now we know why people are coming back here, hopefully we will come back one day too. I would recommend this resort to anyone!