We have been visiting the Maldives for over 30 years and this is the first time we have ever returned to an island, having first stayed at Komandoo back in December 2020 (during Covid times). It was lovely to recognise, and be recognised by, smiley Sanwar in the bar and friendly Yamin in the restaurant.
For us, the size of this adults-only island is perfect and it is beautifully kept, with lush pathways full of pretty plants and flowers. The beach is constantly swept although repairs are needed around Marlin 9 and the Thundi bar. Some new sea walls had been added since our first visit, but these have been really well done and are not only attractive to look at, but have also created a second reef as the walls are filling out with coral and fish.
We loved that the island was quiet, with very little in terms of entertainment. The water sports area is also not popular, which we were pleased to see. Who wants to see a jet ski whizzing around?
The reef is excellent, with a vast array of fish and much improved coral. Snorkelling is easy on both sides of the island, between the marked flags. It can get busy in the water at times with both Komandoo guests venturing out to snorkel, as well as visitors from other islands, who are dropped off by boat. We saw turtles daily, plus a family of eagle rays. We also saw eels, puffer fish, lion fish, an octopus, a large grouper, a stingray and lots of reef sharks. The snorkelling really was the highlight of our stay.
The food, as before, was very good with a great deal of choice at each sitting. We particularly enjoyed the selections on the tandoor and the fruit station. The daily curries were delicious. However, the restaurant needs looking at as small flies were visible on all food that wasn’t hot and covered, which meant we avoided the salad bar and anything else open. Cold items weren’t chilled enough for us either, with the milk at breakfast and the desserts at lunch and dinner, lukewarm. There was also a new problem since our last visit - large flies. We, and other guests, were hassled by them at every mealtime, which is very off-putting. We were constantly having to bat them away and cover our food and drinks when we left the table. It was suggested that the flies were due to a refuse dump on the neighbouring residential island. Whatever the reason, this needs dealing with. It would certainly be a factor in us ever returning.
We used the spa on our final full day and our treatments were lovely. The ladies were incredibly friendly. Had the prices been more reasonable, we would certainly have booked more during our two week stay.
As my title suggests, the overwhelming factor is the staff (or champions) on Komandoo. They go above and beyond and genuinely seem to love working at this resort. From those that clean the room or sweep the beach to guest services or the staff in the bars and the restaurant, everyone you encounter, says hello and gives you a smile. Every guest gets a Komandoo welcome on the jetty and a send-off too.
On both our visits, we were lucky to stay on the sunrise side, which in our opinion has the best beach and view. The room we stayed in and particularly the bathroom are in need of renovation though. It’s all starting to look a bit dated and I cannot believe anyone would go near the mattress on the day bed. The jacuzzi bath is almost impossible to get in and out of. The outside furniture has seen better days. If you ask, there are some ill-fitting cushions to make the loungers a bit more comfortable. Having said that, the complimentary toiletries were lovely and our towels and bedding were changed regularly. The much-needed air con was powerful in the room too.
This resort has so much going for it - the location, the reef, the food and the staff, which is why it has so many repeat visitors. But we would certainly look at other options when we return to the Maldives. The seaplane element of the holiday was not good for us. The planes are noisy, hot and cramped and we incurred over a two hour wait on the outward journey and the plane was late for our return trip, and combined with the utter chaos in the airport, we almost missed our flight home.
We opted for full board this time, having been all inclusive before. Although the drinks were expensive, it still worked out a far cheaper option than being all inclusive. Complimentary water is provided daily in the room and also at all mealtimes, which we were grateful for.
Thank you Komandoo for a lovely stay.
