Dhoni Island, Maldives

Actually, Dhoni Island is not a hotel in the Maldives. It is a jewel. A gem of an island flung far into the Indian Ocean, in the sparkling setting of the remote Ari Atoll.

There are just six bungalows on the entire island. Each one stands aloof, on the beach, comprising, beneath its traditional palm-thatched roof, the latest luxuries. Air conditioning, sound system, al fresco bathroom and cascading waterfall shower. Most bungalows also have their own plunge pools.

And they all have a feature that cannot be rivalled by any hotel in the Maldives. Each bungalow includes a 65 foot, luxury boat – either a beautiful, state-of-the-art motor yacht, or a dhoni; the unmistakeable, traditionally-rigged sailing boats typical of the Maldives.

The boats are fully crewed, of course, with staff specially trained in pampering as well as seamanship. On duty 24 hours, they find the best snorkelling and swimming, serve drinks on the sun decks, prepare and serve romantic dinners. You can indulge in Krug and caviar beneath the stars, as you sail serenely from atoll to atoll.

And when you do step ashore on Dhoni Island’s hotel in the Maldives, the service continues. Your own personal Thakuru – a Maldives hotel butler – will serve you delightful meals wherever you wish, day or night.

A ‘man Friday’ for every day of your week.