It is with deep gratitude that we receive this honour and recognition from our beloved guests. To be ranked among the world’s best resorts in the Indian Ocean brings us great joy and a sense of meaning. I also wish to thank The Nautilus family, who strives wholeheartedly, each and every day, to enable our guests to experience the absolute freedom to create a world of their own making, whilst they are in the Maldives.
Mohamed Ashraf, General Manager of The Nautilus
Enjoying a remote setting in the stunning UNESCO Biosphere Reserve of the Baa Atoll, The Nautilus is a tropical haven of just 26 exceptionally spacious houses and residences, each with its own temperature-controlled freshwater infinity pool and extensive private deck, and attended to by a dedicated HouseMaster offering full butler services. The Nautilus epitomises spacious seclusion and sublime service, with consciously discreet interaction from the moment guests step off the plane at Velana International Airport and into the care of the island’s exclusive, ultra-smooth and queue-free VIP arrival and transfer service.
The only Relais & Châteaux member resort in the Maldives, The Nautilus is the realisation of a vision of life unbound, a place of liberation and unscripted luxury, where guests are free to do – and be – as they please. Casting off the anchor of inflexibility and rejecting the tyranny of timetables, The Nautilus liberates guests to enjoy a private island experience beyond the humdrum, clock-watching constraints of opening hours and set menus.
Conceptualised by a Maldivian hospitality icon and visionary entrepreneur who was instrumental in creating many award-winning resorts, The Nautilus is the result of his lifetime’s worth of expertise and represents what ultra-luxury should be – not just in the Maldives, but worldwide. The legacy of this visionary entrepreneurship is now carried forward by the next generation of the family.
The Nautilus’s already thorough cleaning and hygiene protocols have been further reinforced in line with public health guidelines issued by the WHO and local government authorities, and the team has been fully trained and informed of the new procedures. The resort offers Covid-19 PCR testing onsite for guest convenience, with results returned within 24 hours. This makes The Nautilus the ideal choice for a private Indian Ocean escape. This holiday season, travellers are invited to create a world of their own making at The Nautilus.
If you think you’ve seen the best of the Maldives, think again. The private islands in Maldives take luxury to a whole new level in 2025. These escapes offer not just a vacation but a once-in-a-lifetime experience designed for those who value privacy, personal service, and complete relaxation. Ultra-wealthy travelers now seek secluded retreats where everything is tailored to their desires. Let’s dive into the top private island getaways that redefine luxury travel this year.
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What Makes Private Islands in the Maldives So Special?
A private island in the Maldives offers the ultimate escape. Unlike traditional resorts, these islands provide total seclusion—no crowds, no schedules, just pure freedom. Every experience caters to your taste, from personal chefs to private excursions. Additionally, you’ll find yourself surrounded by some of the most stunning natural beauty on Earth, making it clear why these islands are so coveted. It’s luxury on a personal level, where every moment revolves around your comfort and desires.
The Most Extraordinary Private Island Escapes in 2025
Velaa Private Island – The Ultimate Luxury Playground
Velaa Private Island redefines luxury by offering a sanctuary for those who demand the ultimate in indulgence. Every detail gets crafted to perfection, from the private semi-submarine that lets you explore the vibrant marine life of Noonu Atoll to the Maldives’ only snow room, offering an experience unlike any other. Furthermore, the island’s world-class Velaa Golf Academy elevates the golfing experience with personalized lessons on a course designed by José María Olazábal—an exclusive offering in the Maldives.
Dining at Velaa becomes a journey in itself, featuring Michelin-starred experiences at Aragu alongside other exceptional venues, each providing its own distinct culinary adventure. When you rent the entire island, priced at up to $200,000 per night, you not only secure complete privacy but also enjoy unparalleled service and comfort. For those seeking the ultimate in exclusivity, luxury, and unforgettable experiences, Velaa Private Island is the destination where all dreams come true.
The Nautilus Maldives – Personalized Luxury Like No Other
The Nautilus Maldives transforms the concept of a luxury island escape by offering a sanctuary of complete personalization and exclusivity. This ultra-luxe bohemian retreat, with just 26 villas, ensures unparalleled privacy and freedom from rigid schedules. Every experience gets tailored to your desires, from seamless yacht-to-island arrivals to bespoke dining that goes beyond traditional menus, allowing spontaneous culinary indulgence wherever you choose.
The resort’s intimate atmosphere heightens with the presence of a dedicated House Master—your 24/7 butler, ready to attend to your every need with the utmost care. At The Nautilus, time flows freely, and every moment is yours to shape. Whether you stay in a beach or ocean villa, each residence offers effortless chic, a private pool, and service as unique as you are. Here, there are no rushes, no rules, just complete privacy and indulgence, all on your terms.
Kudadoo Maldives Private Island – Fully Solar-Powered Ultra-Luxury
Kudadoo Maldives Private Island sets a bold new standard for ultra-luxury with its unwavering commitment to sustainability. This fully solar-powered haven serves those who demand the finest in comfort while prioritizing the planet’s future. Every aspect of Kudadoo, from its intimate setting to its world-class services, revolves around an ethos of privacy and exclusivity.
The resort’s Anything, Anytime, Anywhere philosophy ensures that every guest’s desires get met effortlessly, offering access to gourmet dining, thrilling dive experiences, and rejuvenating spa treatments—all included in the experience. Kudadoo creates a sanctuary where luxury and sustainability coexist seamlessly, making it the ultimate choice for travelers who value both indulgence and eco-consciousness. With each detail thoughtfully crafted to reduce its environmental footprint, this private island redefines what it means to travel responsibly in unparalleled comfort.
Cheval Blanc Randheli Private Island – The LVMH-Owned Exclusive Retreat
Cheval Blanc Randheli Private Island, owned by the luxury powerhouse LVMH, stands as the ultimate exclusive retreat where fashion meets unparalleled indulgence. This private island spans one hectare and features a four-bedroom mansion designed to perfection, complete with an infinity pool and a private yacht for serene, personalized exploration. Tailored for those with the highest standards, every element of this island is crafted around exclusivity—from curated designer shopping experiences to intimate, one-of-a-kind events. Moreover, a dedicated team ensures seamless service, making Cheval Blanc Randheli Private Island a luxurious escape where sophistication and style redefine every moment.
JOALI BEING – The Ultimate Wellness Private Island
JOALI BEING is a private island in the Maldives, devoted entirely to wellness and holistic healing, offering an exclusive retreat for those in search of ultimate relaxation and rejuvenation. This sanctuary caters to high-net-worth travelers seeking a luxury experience that focuses on health and well-being. Featuring cutting-edge detox programs, sound therapy, and overwater meditation pavilions, JOALI BEING redefines wellness. By drawing from both ancient wisdom and modern science, the island’s offerings go beyond traditional treatments, integrating personalized nutrition and specialized therapies. With every element crafted to nourish the mind, body, and soul, JOALI BEING provides a serene escape where wellness and luxury meet to create a truly transformative experience.
What Does It Take to Stay on a Private Island in the Maldives?
Luxury like this comes at a price. Renting an entire island can cost upwards of six figures per night, but for the world’s elite, that’s part of the appeal. Hollywood stars, tech moguls, and royalty frequent these islands, drawn by the chance to enjoy privacy and opulence. Some islands offer membership programs or exclusive bookings for a select few, making them even more desirable for those who value privacy and discretion.
How to Experience Maldives’ Private Island Luxury Without Breaking the Bank
Not everyone needs to be a billionaire to enjoy private island-level luxury. Many high-end villas offer the same secluded experience with private beaches, personal butlers, and bespoke services at a fraction of the price. Resorts like these let you enjoy the perks of a private island without needing to rent the entire thing. In fact, it’s a smart way to indulge in luxury without stretching your budget.
The Future of Private Islands in the Maldives
The future of private islands in the Maldives looks exciting, with advances in sustainability, artificial intelligence, and cutting-edge technology. Expect new projects in 2025 and beyond, like self-sustaining eco-islands and high-tech retreats that blend luxury with innovation. Without a doubt, the next generation of islands will continue to push boundaries, offering even more personalized and sustainable experiences for the world’s most discerning travelers.
The Pinnacle of Luxury
The Maldives remains the pinnacle of luxury travel, and its private islands go even further. These escapes cater to the ultra-wealthy, offering unparalleled exclusivity and service. Whether you’re seeking a wellness retreat, an eco-friendly adventure, or the ultimate indulgence, the private islands of the Maldives in 2025 offer something truly special.
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