JW Marriott, part of Marriott International has announced the opening of JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa on Vagaru island, Shaviyani Atoll. It is located at just 55 minutes via seaplane from the capital of Male, Maldives. Marking the debut of Marriott International’s JW Marriott brand in the Maldives, the resort boasts 60 copious villas, starting at approximately 242 sqm that feature private pools and wooden sunbathing decks.
Duplex Overwater Pool Villas and Single-Storey Overwater Pool villas are its accommodation types that are set on stilts overlooking the cerulean waters of the Indian Ocean. The former type features separate lounges, bedrooms and bathrooms to accommodate larger groups. The Beach Pool Villas come with direct access to the beaches of the private island.
The decor of each villa is influenced by natural surroundings and local Maldivian culture, incorporating colours and materials that highlight the island destination. Slanted roof tips are inspired by white herons dipping their heads into the water while the thatched roofs of the villas resemble inverted dhoni boats, the traditional Maldivian wooden fishing vessels.
An extensive array of dedicated fitness and spa amenities at the signature Spa by JW, along with a daily schedule of engaging and mindfulness-focused activities are curated for guests.
With five restaurants at the property, guests can choose from classic Maldivian seafood, traditional Thai cuisine on a treetop restaurant, wood-fired brick oven pizzas to Japanese teppanyaki. Three full-service bars serve old and new world wines, fine Japanese sake and handcrafted cocktails with over 98 different types of rum available. Guests can also enjoy 24-hour in-villa dining services.
The private island where JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa sits holds a stunning natural reef just metres from the shore that teams with vibrant sea life. An on-site marine biologist oversees the health of the reef along with organising diving and snorkelling excursions and other water sports. “We are thrilled to open our JW Marriott brand in this truly amazing destination,” says Mitzi Gaskins, vice president and global brand leader, JW Marriott.
